Secretary of Education Dr. Veronica C. García was recently honored by the Family/Parent Involvement Advisory Council for her continued vision and support of family, school and community partnerships. Families from around the state celebrated Parental Involvement Day at the Capitol Rotunda Thursday.

“Research shows that family involvement in schools can lead to better student achievement,” Dr. García said. “Parents should volunteer and visit their child’s school whenever they have a chance. It’s also important for parents to communicate with teachers and principals throughout the school year.”

“There’s more to parental involvement than volunteering,” Dr. García said. “Student preparation begins at home, where homework, preparing backpacks and school supplies, and discussing lessons at the end of the day can help children focus on the importance of education.”

The Public Education Department has joined the National Network of Partnership Schools, which offers specific, research-based approaches to show families and educators how to better work together to increase student performance.

The Department has also created a media campaign stressing the importance of parental involvement, and a toolkit that offers New Mexico parents a wealth of information, among other efforts. Go to http://www.ped.state.nm.us/Parents/index.html for more information.