#105: Speaking Change

Do we fully grasp the potential of our language to inspire hope and optimism in others? The way we frame our message can either ignite a sense of possibility or incite panic, stress, and anxiety. This awareness is crucial when advocating for family engagement in educational settings, as it can foster a positive outlook and a belief in the potential for change. 

When collaborating with schools to encourage family engagement and empowerment, our language may drive away families. This realization should make us more cautious about our language and its purpose. When asking for community action, it can help stakeholders to reframe our approach. The terminology we use to identify families sets a lens that can hurt. Often, families are identified by their needs instead of their achievements and dreams. This does not allow the receiver of your message to imagine the possible outcomes of collaboration; instead, it focuses on untouched or systemic needs. Deficit-based language focuses on an individual’s limitations and problems, often leading to negative perceptions and reinforcing stereotypes. Using empowering and strengths-based terminology is crucial to promote a more positive and accurate view, recognizing individuals’ capabilities and potential.

Stakeholders in student education have an opportunity to promote engagement as an equity issue. This would address both the macro and micro levels of interference and collaboration. It is essential to name the factors that can affect the success of engagement efforts: Institutional, Cultural, and Family/Community Circumstances. I will note that Institutional factors affect Cultural and Family/Community Circumstances. Yet, the necessary change and action usually comes at a Family and/or Community level. How do we begin the change and the action required to bring together stakeholders on all levels? By providing roles. 

Most administrators and family members know their role in family engagement; their presence is expected. But what of educators already playing such an essential role in the classroom? Educators who are already working more than 40 hours a week without extra compensation due to their students’ needs—needs that are usually affected on the institutional level and trickle down into difficulties seen in the classroom. These educators are not just playing a role, they are integral to the process. Their efforts can play a vital role by simply communicating information and the importance of presenting opportunities for students. Teacher communication is vital whether it is a school event, field trip, or community resource; the content that makes it home can spark necessary action, change, or meet a need. When the communication channel between educators and families is strong, there are benefits to both students and educators. 

Dear [Student’s Name],

I hope this message finds you well. I wanted to commend you on your outstanding work on your recent assignment. Your dedication and effort showed through your detailed research and thoughtful analysis.

Your ability to connect different concepts and present your ideas is impressive. You clearly have a strong understanding of the material, and I appreciate the unique perspective you brought to the topic.

I encourage you to keep up the fantastic work! Your enthusiasm and commitment to learning are evident, and I am confident you will continue to excel. Remember, if you have any questions or need further assistance, don’t hesitate to reach out. I am here to support you in your academic journey.

Once again, well done! I look forward to seeing more of your excellent work in the future.

Best regards,

[Teacher’s Name]

What is the family’s role? Is it simply to be present and do their part at home? Could we not fill a room with people and say they are present? A catalyst must exist. That catalyst is the communication among families. Families can discuss the advantages of being involved with other families. Sharing their first-hand experiences with others will cause engagement to move from a Family to a Community environment. With families taking on this role, they can address engagement in a way that is appropriate for their culture and community. Their communication is not just a role but a powerful tool that can influence and inspire engagement. 

Partnering with families to develop language is necessary. Families are invested in the positive outcomes of family engagement. Language that causes panic, stress, and anxiety is of no use, considering the families are already experiencing these. Reframing how we ask for engagement is something to be considered, not only when sending a message home but also when planning school events, even down to creating a flyer. What are we highlighting? What seems like an impossible situation on an Institutional level or the opportunity for engagement at the family and community level? Our language determines how the message is received and what is reciprocated. We can motivate and create a catalyst orienting toward equity, explaining schools’ role as an institution and what barriers accompany it, and demonstrate how engagement can drive transformation. Let us be conscious of how we communicate. 

In conclusion, language is pivotal in fostering hope and optimism, which is essential for enhancing family engagement in education. By utilizing positive, strengths-based communication, we can promote collaboration and instill a belief in the potential for change, in contrast to deficit-based language that may perpetuate negative stereotypes. Recognizing family engagement as an equity issue necessitates addressing the various institutional, cultural, and community factors involved, often initiating change at the family or community level. Educators are crucial in this process, sharing valuable opportunities and information that can drive action and transformation. Furthermore, families can significantly impact engagement by sharing their experiences, thus evolving from individual involvement to broader community participation. Effective and empowering communication that minimizes stress is vital for motivating and sustaining these engagement efforts, leading to a more inclusive and supportive educational environment. Therefore, let us commit to using our language thoughtfully, actively seek opportunities for collaboration, and advocate for family engagement, ensuring that every voice is heard and valued in the educational journey.

Interested to learn more about our family empowerment work and how we can serve your school and/or community? Reach out to Kim at kimberly@schermcofoundation.org