A study examined the beliefs of parents in relation to their responsibilities and the school's responsibilities in the area of teaching reading. Parent interviews were conducted with three sets of parents of children receiving remedial instruction and two sets of parents of gifted children, all in fifth grade. All parents were from a rural area and were involved in farming or employed in service functions supporting the rural community. Analysis of the data suggests that parents see themselves as providers of reading models, reading materials, and reading opportunities. They expressed concern over lack of knowledge about the school reading program. The parental perceptions of school responsibilities revolved around teaching specific reading skills and identifying and helping children with reading difficulties. The parents also provided suggestions concerning further parental involvement in the school's programs. (Author/MG)