Parents of Woodbury Elementary School students are pictured participating in a recent parent engagement program at the school. Pictured, front row, from left, are Rosa Parra, Karina Hernandez (class instructor), Maria Gonzalez and Maria Saldana. Back row, Juana Gorgonio, Enriqueta Munoz, Julia Martinez, Claudia Suarez, Paty Caudillo and Bitaelia Juarez.
A group of parents from Woodbury Elementary School participated in a program at the school designed to teach them how to get more involved in their child’s education.
Led by Karina Hernandez of Mid-Iowa Community Action, the parent training program is known as Abriendo Puertas (Opening Doors). It is a 10-session program and a partnership between MICA and the Marshalltown Community School District.
The program promotes school readiness, family well-being and advocacy by addressing best practices in brain development, key aspects of early childhood development, early literacy, numeracy, bilingualism, health, attendance, civic engagement, parent leadership, goal setting and planning for family success.
“I truly believe that these parents gained the skills to be a positive role model to their children, as well as a great advocate towards their children’s education,” Hernandez said. “The parents that attended were very engaged in our discussions and activities, they asked questions and came to class every Monday eager to learn.”
On the final night of the program, Woodbury Principal Anel Garza spoke to the group about their rights as a parent and how they can get more involved at Woodbury and in their child’s education.
Parents take part in an activity, from left, Juana Gorgonio, Rosa Parra, Paty Caudillo, Maria Saldana and Bitaelia Juarez.
