by Amanda Matthews
Lincoln Elementary Community School Coordinator
A focus at Lincoln Elementary Community School this year has been finding ways to better engage parents in their child’s education. To support this goal, the school hosted its first ever P.I.E (Parents in Education) day on March 4. Twenty-three parents attended this first-time event to hear about the goals of the school, the importance of regular attendance, how critical it is to read to their children at home, behavior strategies that are being employed at the school, and ways for families to pursue post-secondary education opportunities. Games and activities were provided for younger children who are not yet in school, so parents felt free to attend and participate.
![photo[1]](https://uw.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/03/photo1.jpg)
After hearing from the principal and other school representatives, parents were placed in small groups with Lincoln staff to tour the school and observe various classrooms. Some of the biggest highlights were when parents saw students dancing along with a giant projected video in gym class and were able to visit their own child’s classroom! When the group reconvened, parents were excited about what they saw and asked questions, such as why teachers had students divided into groups. This was a great opportunity for the school to talk about the strategies that teachers use, like small group instruction, and how the school is working to ensure that students succeed.
The event ended in the Family Center with a variety of pies, free clothes and shoes, and a chance to win books, flash cards, and gift cards. Grade-level materials were also available for parents to take to help support their children at home.
It was evident that the parents who attended the P.I.E. Night appreciated the opportunity to meet with school staff and learn more about their children’s education. Overall, the event was a success and Lincoln is excited to continue this tradition next year! Thank you to all of the parents who LIVE UNITED and stay engaged with us at Lincoln Elementary Community School!
