The Parent Engagement Night (PEN) is an important element to the successful implementation of the School Smarts Parent Engagement Program. The PEN is an outreach event that attracts parents interested in learning how to become more involved in their child’s education. The event provides parents information on the value of family engagement, how to work more collaboratively with school staff and the importance of arts education. Parents are able to participate in a hands-on art activity offered for the whole family. Parents also receive an overview of the School Smarts program and an invitation to participate in the seven-week Parent Academy.
The PEN typically includes a light meal, childcare and offers interpretation for families as needed.
Marketing and Outreach
As you begin recruiting parents to attend the PEN and Parent Academy, here are a few strategies to use when reaching out to parents to market the School Smarts Parent Engagement Program.
Personal Invitations: Invitations from trusted leaders on campus are a great way to recruit parents. Here are a few examples:
- Personal calls
- In-person conversations
- During parent teacher conferences
- At back-to-school event or other school events
Digital Promotion: Many parents may prefer digital communications to stay up to date on news and events happening at your school. Be sure to include the School Smarts web badge on your school’s website and promote upcoming events on the website’s homepage and online calendar. You can also send email communications to parents personally inviting them to attend the Academy . Here are a few other examples of digital promotion:
- Social media accounts
- Message board
- Principal’s weekly message
Brochures, Fliers and Newsletters: California State PTA has developed brochures and fliers to use when sharing this program with parents. These can be circulated through a variety of methods including:
- Back-to-school event or other school events
- Parent teacher conferences
- Handouts before/after school
Sample Fliers and Brochures (Click here to order/download fliers)
Planning a Successful Parent Engagement Night (PEN)
Facilities: Identify a space on campus to hold the PEN event. Ideally, a multi-purpose room which will allow parents ample space for both food and art activities.
Food: Develop a plan to provide food or light snacks at the event. Try working with a local caterer or vendor who can provide discounts.
Child Care: Organize child care so that parents can fully engage in the event. If they are available, enlist campus supervisors to provide childcare after hours.
Interpretation: Organize interpretation as needed. A key component of the School Smarts program is to promote inclusivity. Having interpretation is a key element to creating a welcoming environment for parents of diverse backgrounds.
Present: Present information about the School Smarts Parent Engagement Program and share what attendees will learn by highlighting the session topics from each week.
Art Activity: Arrange an art activity for the Parent Engagement Night. Many school sites utilize local resources, including working with local art teachers or arts organizations who can lead the activity.
Parent Engagement Night At-A-Glance
Below you will find a flow chart on how to prepare before and after the Parent Engagement Night.
Resources
Click below to find resources for you as you plan your Parent Engagement Night Event: