ABSTRACT
Throughout this book I have tried to show that the parents' clearest connection to the school and their children's education is the classroom and the classroom teacher. If teachers welcome and validate parents by listening to their concerns and finding positive things to communicate to them about their children's ongoing progress, then the parents will most likely be open to a partnership. The teacher's words will be received with an open heart and mind. On the other hand, if teachers believe that parents don't care or are too tired or apathetic to be interested in their children's education, then the parents will be likely to fulfill those negative expectations.
