MCRD/ERR PARRIS ISLAND, S.C. -- Parents of children at the Laurel Bay's elementary schools are sprnging into action by taking part in their child's educational experience with participation in school events and organizations.
These relationships are now more important than ever, said Noel Tillman, principal, Galer Elementary School.
"If a parent only asks, 'How was school today,' they are only halfway there," added Tillman. "Today, we turn over our children to sports, clubs, activities, babysitters and extended family members. Being involved in school programs gives parents a chance to connect with their children."
One of the most prevalent options for parent-school participation is membership in the school's Parent Teacher Organization.
"The PTO is an organization set up to encourage more parent participation and to support quality of life programs for the children," said Tillman, a veteran Department of Defense teacher and principal. "It representsthe voice of the parents."
The PTO, which is comprised of volunteer parents and teachers, is responsible for providing extra funding for schoolprojects, such as field trips, book fairs and school photo day, helping teachers with purchasing learning tools, organizing school activities and fundraisers and addressing parent concerns, explained Suzanna Swain, PTO president for Elliot Elementary School.
Galer Elementary and its PTO started a new program this year that encourages literacy and writing skills. The school created its very own in-house post office, complete with a blue mailbox and a mailroom. Every Friday, student and parent mailmen gather and sort mail before delivering the letters to each classroom. The rooms are numbered with 'house' numbers and the hallways are each designated with a 'street name' for the addresses. The young mail writers even have access to a writing desk, which contains envelopes, paper, postcards and stamps artistically crafted by the students.
Participating in the PTO is not the only way parents can take part in their children's school and education, said Tillman.
"Parents don't have to wait to join the PTO," explained Tillman. "It doesn't have to be about going to meetings and fundraising. They can help with class birthday parties, read with their kids at night [and] even have lunch with them at school."
One of the more popular programs, Family Reading Night, offers parents a chance to come into the school and spend time learning with their children.
"Family Reading Night provides an opportunity for you and your children to come to school and read together," wrote Susan Rider, a Galer Elementary first grade teacher, in a previous statement. "Perhaps more importantly, it's a chance to have fun and invest some quality time in your children."
For more information on how to get more involved in your child's educational experience, contact Galer Elementary School at 846-6100, Elliot Elementary School at 846-6982 or Bolden Elementary School at 846-6112.