Family involvement in schools is a key indicator of student success at all levels. Sometimes involvement after elementary school years can pose a challenge. A growing body of evidence recognizes that family and community connections with schools make a difference in middle school and high school success (Iowa Parent Information Resource Center). Positive behavior support (PBS) can serve as a focal point for encouraging involvement at all grade levels. The menu of items listed below includes some ideas that can be used at each of the grade levels.

1. Develop a survey for families about behavioral needs or behavioral expectations in the school.

2. Develop a survey for families to determine what they know or want/need to know about PBS. (See sample survey)

3. Develop information for families about PBS at your school.

4. Help plan and implement school wide celebrations.

5. Evaluate your school to determine if it is family friendly.

6. Write a piece for your school newsletter about PBS.

7. Help plan a PBS family night at your school.

8. Contact community businesses to share information about PBS in the schools.

9. Talk with teachers and staff about what they think parents need to know about PBS and ways families can support PBS in their school.

10. Create a home PBS contract with families.

11. Send regular notes home about PBS developed by parents for parents.

12. Send home thank you notes for supporting PBS in schools. (These can be sent to parents and/or staff and teachers.)

13. Hold a PBS day at your school that is planned and coordinated by parents.

14. Recruit parents to develop displays around the school related to PBS. (e.g. PBS student of the week, month etc).

15. Set up a PBS table during parent-teacher conferences.

16. Create PBS parent resources. (These could include things such as behavior management “Tip of the Month” or “Five Ways a Day” to reinforce good behavior in the home).

17. Develop a PBS Family Calendar.

18. Family/parent rep. recognizes students, staff, and teachers for reinforcing behavioral expectations. (At team meetings individuals can be identified who are exhibiting the behaviors that support PBS in your school)

19. Skits at half-time of sporting events about PBS.

Remember What Research Says about Parent Involvement
A family’s income level does not affect the family’s level of involvement. Low-income families are as likely to be involved in their student’s learning as higher-income families.