If you’ve chosen a private school education for your child, there are many exciting opportunities to become involved as a parent. Here’s how to successfully navigate community participation in your child’s private institution.
Stay Informed of Expectations
A private school education typically relies on robust parent participation to help run enrichment programs, extracurriculars, fundraising events, and more. Before applying, research the requirements of the programs you’re interested in. Attend open houses to learn how parent volunteering works. Once enrolled, thoroughly review information packets and attend orientation events to understand how you can plug into the community. Being informed sets you up for success!
Determine Your Bandwidth
As you learn about volunteering opportunities, reflect on your bandwidth. Can you commit to regular activities like helping in the classroom or library each week or occasional events like chaperoning field trips? Can you lead a club or sport or serve on a parent board? Be honest about your capacity. Then, focus on finding fulfilling ways to contribute towards your child’s private school education that realistically works with your schedule and abilities.
Communicate Your Availability
Be proactive in sharing your availability with staff and parent groups. Return volunteer sign-up forms promptly, and provide accurate updates on your schedule. Loop the parent association in on times of the year you’ll have more or less flexibility. Ask how you can pitch in on your terms. Clear communication allows you to stay involved on your own terms.
Embrace Flexibility
While having guidelines helps, leave space for flexibility, too. Be open to fitting in an extra shift at the book fair when needed or helping out with an upcoming play if your schedule allows. Staying agile ensures all volunteer bases are covered while letting you contribute in meaningful spur-of-the-moment ways.
According to the Council for American Private Education, there are 33,619 private institutions serving 5.4 million students from pre-k through 12th grade in the United States. With this robust community of students, parents, and educators, private institutions depend on everyone to pitch in. Keeping an open, cooperative spirit helps make parent involvement a richly rewarding experience for all. If you’re looking to enroll your child in a top private school, reach out to Conchita Espinosa Academy to learn more!
