July 6, 2022
Progress
Family University events at science center and museum attract big crowds
City Schools partners with families to support student learning
Over 1,200 City Schools students and families spent an evening previewing the huge variety of City Schools’ summer programs and exploring the Maryland Science Center’s exhibits at the Spring Into Summer Learning event in mid-May.
A few days later, nearly 200 more families connected with organizations eager to help with high school, college and career readiness at the Reginald F. Lewis Museum during Let’s Get H.Y.P.E.D. (Helping Your Child Plan for Education and Dreams).
“This is so exciting. I love that there's an opportunity here for my emerging sixth-grader to come and learn about different programs that the city offers,” said Monica, a parent attending Let’s Get H.Y.P.E.D.
Check out coverage from City Schools’ student media team:
Both events were hosted by City School’s Family Engagement Office as part of its Family University initiative. Launched in 2020, Family University provides resources to help families support their children and be more involved in their educational experience.
“Family engagement is essential to students' academic success, their social emotional growth and overall school improvement,” says Demetria Singleton, Family and Community Engagement Specialist. “Family University's role is to provide opportunities and resources for families to strengthen school-family partnerships that support student achievement and school improvement.”
The Office of Family Engagement team is excited to be producing in-person Family University experiences. Spring into Summer Learning and Let’s Get H.Y.P.E.D. are just the beginning — the goal is to host quarterly learning opportunities next school year.
Over 25,000 families have watched and engaged with dozens of Family University videos, livestreams and virtual celebrations on YouTube and Facebook Live. Favorites have included:
- The Mindfulness Thursdays series, which led families through breathing exercises to help them relax and reduce stress
- The Virtual Health and Wellness Fair, featuring insight from community organizations on nutrition, stress management and exercise
- Fatherhood, Books and Barbershops, which promoted the power of fathers and children reading together
- The Black History Month Family Literacy Panel Discussion, where Baltimore’s African American authors shared tips on how to encourage a love for reading.
Check out the official Family University YouTube Playlist and keep an eye on City Schools’ social media and newsletters for more Family University events!
