Year two of City Schools Family University is off and running! Created by parents and for parents, the workshop series supports "Families as Leaders, Educators, Advocates, and Decision-Makers."
A recent evening session warmly welcomed participants to Hamilton Elementary/Middle School. Family members representing the span of grade levels from high school to elementary were ushered toward refreshments before settling little ones with childcare providers.
The session's co-facilitator Karen Brown continues a proud legacy of service. Four generations of her family are City Schools alumni or current students. She encouraged participants to nurture not only their own children, but all children.
Parent Leticia Urbano echoed this sentiment. A member of her school's Parent Teacher Organization, she sees Family University as another opportunity to get involved with the school and community.
Phyllis Ford-Berger participated in at least four of the five topics during last school year, and earned status as a Family University graduate. As a graduate, she was co-facilitating her first session.
“I had such a rich experience as a participant. I really enjoyed connecting with other people and talking about our shared challenges, and I wanted to be part of this project again. I just believe in community and that’s why I’m here.”
Phyllis Ford-Berger, parent and Family University co-facilitator
Meeting other parents drew her in and she is passionate about the community she has found with families across the city.
The "Communication Part I" workshop gave participants the chance to get to know each other before defining two-way communication and guiding families through discussion-based exercises.
There were nods and affirmations as families shared the wide range of two-way communication strategies that are working, as well as opportunities for improvement.
Parent Darnell Kelly noted that communication effectiveness depends not only on parent and staff styles and preferences, but also on each child and their needs.
Throughout, participants shared their own experiences and advised each other as a learning community. The final exercise was identifying one issue and a solution to try.
Family University workshops accommodate busy families with morning, evening, in-person, and virtual options throughout the city and school year. Childcare is provided for evening sessions, and participants may request interpretation when registering.
View the Family University schedule and register online.