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June 2007
Family Friendly Schools Initiative
Welcoming Families on Campus
For many parents, deciding how involved to be with their child’s education starts with how they feel about their school. First impressions matter, such as friendly telephone voices and helpful staff. Creating an atmosphere that embraces parent involvement and cultural connections further strengthens a family’s commitment to their school.

With the launch of the Family Friendly Schools Initiative in February, the district is helping schools create and maintain welcoming campus environments for families and local communities. So far, 68 schools have pledged their participation and jumpstarted their efforts by attending a “Nuts and Bolts” training session. The final goal is to become a certified Family Friendly School, the model for positive learning environments for students and staff.

The initiative also encourages parents to get involved with school activities and to recognize staff members who provide outstanding service. Super Service Commendation forms and drop-off boxes are available at most schools. More than 600 parents and visitors have embraced the opportunity to say “thank you” to staff members who go above and beyond in the area of exemplary service. Here are some recent comments:
  • A parent at Correia Middle School recognized a staff member for being “a solid teacher with a mission to make sure every student who leaves her classroom is well prepared for the next grade level.”
  • A parent at Patrick Henry High recognized a counselor for “making communication her number one priority and addressing questions, concerns and e-mails in a consistent, kind and professional manner.”
The message behind the Family Friendly Schools Initiative is so positive that many district offices are also using Super Service Commendation forms to recognize fellow employees.
  • Mason Elementary recognized a member of the Pupil Accounting team “for her professionalism, her excellent recommendations, and for sharing valuable knowledge and positive feedback that will be put to use at our school.”
More schools and departments are expected to join the program in the 2007-08 school year. For more information and a schedule of upcoming training opportunities, contact Edward Caballero at ecaballero@sandi.net or (619) 725-5519.