ABSTRACT
While American public education has changed over the years, one factor—family engagement—remains critical to student achievement. Ongoing research shows family engagement in schools improves student achievement, reduces absenteeism, and restores parents’ confidence in their children’s education. Students with involved parents or other caregivers earn higher grades and test scores, have better social skills, and show improved behavior. When parents get involved, they join forces with teachers to make a formidable educational team characterized by mutual respect. However, when discussing parent involvement in the United States, it is important to highlight the plight of African American parents. This chapter explores how the racialized history of African Americans to obtain an education has impacted parent involvement in children's education before- and after-school desegregation in the United States. It first discusses how racism among the White teaching force has impacted parent–school relationships. Next, it describes some models of family–school engagement in the United States. It concludes by discussing the need for creating spaces in teacher preparation programs where preservice teachers can grapple with issues like race, equity, and Whiteness and niceness.
