Parent University: Opening Session

What is Parent University?

You can now pre-register for Parent University, a learning experience specifically designed to help Boston Public Schools parents increase their understanding of how children learn and develop; what their children should be learning; how to help their children get what they need to succeed; and how to bring other parents together to work for school improvement. Most importantly, Parent University provides opportunities for parents to build their own skills and enjoy learning new things.

What will I learn?

Parent University learning sessions are focused on four areas that support parents in ways that empower them to leaders and advocates for student learning and school improvement.

• Parents as Teachers – provides a clearer understanding of how children grow and learn and the teaching & learning approaches in BPS
• Parents as Advocates – builds capacity to advocate for their child, understand the standards and expectations for learning and support learning at home
• Parents as Leaders – provides the opportunity to develop the skills necessary to assume leadership roles in their schools and community
• Parents as Learners – provides the opportunity to build upon their own skills for personal and professional growth

How does Parent University work?

The University offers 3 day-long Saturday learning sessions; in October, January and May, with additional sessions offered throughout the year at schools, libraries and community centers. Parent University is free for all BPS parents. In June, there will be a Parent University graduation for parents who have completed a set of learning sessions.

How do I register for Parent University?

A handbook containing an overview of the program and a registration form containing a list of courses for the October 31 session of Parent University are posted below. Please complete the registration form and email it to parentuniversity@bostonpublicschools.org. If you have questions about the registration process, please call the Office of Family & Student Engagement at 617-635-1683.

NOTE: Registration deadline extended until Monday, October 26, 2009.