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Family and community involvement in schools: Results from the School Health Policies and Programs Study 2006.
J School Health 2007; 77(8):567-579.
Michael S, Dittus P, Epstein J.
Abstract
BACKGROUND: Family and community involvement in schools is linked strongly
to improvements in the academic achievement of students, better school attendance,
and improved school programs and quality. METHODS: The Centers for Disease
Control and Prevention conducts the School Health Policies and Programs Study
every 6 years. In 2006, computer-assisted telephone interviews or self-administered
mail questionnaires were completed by state education agency personnel in
all 50 states plus the District of Columbia and among a nationally representative
sample of school districts (n=461). Computer-assisted personal interviews
were conducted with personnel in a nationally representative sample of elementary,
middle, and high schools (n=1029) and with a nationally representative sample
of teachers of required health education classes and courses (n=912) and required
physical education classes and courses (n=1194). RESULTS: Although family
and community involvement in states, districts, and schools was limited, many
states, districts, and schools collaborated with community groups and agencies
to promote and support school health programs. More than half of districts
and schools communicated information to families on school health program
components. Teachers in 55.5% of required health education classes and courses
and 30.8% of required physical education classes and courses gave students
homework or projects that involved family members. CONCLUSIONS: Although family
and community involvement occurred at all levels, many schools are not doing
some of the fundamental things schools could do to increase family involvement.
Improvements in family and community involvement can support school health
programs in states, districts, schools, and classrooms nationwide.