The moment we’ve been preparing for is here – Week 1 of the 10-Week Parent Engagement Challenge!
Thank you for building the foundation, forming your engagement team, and sharing the mission.
Now it’s time to move from planning to action.
This week, we focus on the most important building block of all.
Trust
Communication
Because before parents will participate, they must feel seen, welcomed, and valued.
Key Concept: Trust is Built in Small Moments
In The Missing Link, we learn that parents don’t engage because they don’t care – they engage when they feel connected.
This week, schools and families commit to ONE powerful goal:
Every parent receives one positive communication from the school.
It can be a phone call, text, ClassDojo message, or quick conversation at pickup.
When parents hear from a school before there’s a problem, trust grows – and momentum begins.
Week 1 Action: “Make the First Move”
Schools & Teachers:
• Send at least one positive message to every parent
• Use clear, friendly language
• Keep it short, warm, and specific
Examples:
• “ Just wanted to say how proud we are of your child’s effort today
• “ Your child helped another student during math – wonderful leadership!”
• “ Your child made such a positive impact this week. Thank you!”
Parents:
Send a quick message to your child’s teacher
• “Thank you for all you do”
• “Let us know how we can support learning at home”
• “We appreciate you!”
Coming Next Week – Challenge Week 2: “Discovering Student Strengths”
Next week, we’ll show you how families and schools can work together to highlight student skills, talents, and passion – turning learning into something joyful and personal.