#United States #Kentucky #Lexington #NCFL #Fayette County

Innovative Family Engagement in Fayette County Public Schools

A recent report from the NYU Metro Center reveals transformative outcomes following the implementation of an innovative family engagement strategy in Fayette County, Kentucky Public Schools (FCPS). This initiative, known as Partnering with Families for Student Success (PFSS), aimed to unify the district's Family and Community Engagement Team under a common vision. The findings highlight a notable shift in educators' perceptions, emphasizing the significance of two-way communication with families and fostering opportunities for collaboration in student education.

The comprehensive study stemmed from a multi-year project focused on understanding the district-wide Family and Community Engagement (FACE) Team and the execution of the P-12 District Family Engagement Model developed by the National Center for Families Learning (NCFL). This model promotes a holistic perspective on family engagement, enabling district staff to create enduring, authentic relationships with families to enhance student achievement. Funded by the Kentucky Department of Education's ESSER Family Engagement Grant, the evaluation aims to provide insights into effective family engagement practices that can be replicated elsewhere.

Key to the program's success was the PFSS professional learning and coaching component, considered vital for fostering a culture of meaningful engagement. Coupled with the district's strategic priorities, the alignment of FACE liaisons with academic outcomes, and continuous support for educators utilizing engagement strategies, the initiative has bolstered the effectiveness of family engagement.

Dr. Joanna Geller, the study's author and Director of Policy, Research, and Evaluation at NYU Metro Center, stressed the importance of the professional learning (PL) series offered by NCFL. According to Dr. Geller, the series combines rich content, practical applications, peer learning, and ongoing coaching, creating a robust support system for educators that aligns with the district's commitment to family engagement. Notably, educators have shifted from a one-way mode of communication to a more authentic, interactive relationship with families.

Miranda Scully, Director of Family and Community Engagement for FCPS, expressed her enthusiasm for the program, stating, "Our district has fully embraced Partnering with Families for Student Success. Our educators have become FACE Champions who demonstrate their deep desire and commitment to engage families as a core effort to support every student. We believe that when families and educators work hand-in-hand, we create a powerful support system that empowers students to thrive academically, socially, and emotionally."

The study also highlights the necessity for ongoing research to explore the program's impact on student attendance and learning outcomes in the future. The insights gained from this initiative offer valuable lessons and best practices for other districts seeking to enhance their family engagement efforts.

About NCFL

The National Center for Families Learning (NCFL) has dedicated over 35 years to combating poverty through education solutions designed for families. With a vision to establish 60 coordinated family learning systems across various communities, NCFL emphasizes that education is a shared responsibility, advocating for collaboration between families, schools, and community members. Their mission focuses on enhancing educational and economic outcomes while building prosperous communities. For further details, visit familieslearning.org.