It is clear that family support for students' education is important, but it is also an aspect of educators' work that can be frustrating when repeated efforts to engage families do not seem to pay off in high levels of engagement. In this article, the author takes a few steps back and looks at some important topics related to family involvement.…

A Maine elementary principal discovered that a family game night, complete with food and door prizes, helps build a sense of community by giving parents an opportunity to interact informally with school staff and students. It is particularly effective with previously uninvolved parents. (MLH)