Lawrence teachers don’t welcome idle chatter in class, but they’re in agreement that constructive communication with parents is critical to success of students at school.

“We want each student performing at his or her potential. It’s important to talk things through,” said Wayne Kruse, a sixth-grade teacher at Quail Run School.

Mary Rodriguez, the district’s director of human resources and a business teacher at Lawrence High School for 17 years, said many studies had shown the value of parental involvement to students of all ages and of all backgrounds.

It even holds true for students who try to block lines of communication, she said.

“Parents need to get involved, even when students say they shouldn’t,” Rodriguez said. “They really want them there.”

The first day of class in Lawrence public schools is Wednesday, but the first full day of instruction for all grades is Aug. 18.

To get things off on the right foot, here are five ideas for enhancing parental involvement from The Family Education Network’s Web site, www.familyeducation.com:

• Create an environment at home that encourages learning with use of everything from puzzles to paints to computers.


Preparing her classroom for the start of the new school year, Pat McAlister, a second-grade teacher at Broken Arrow School, posts alphabet cards on her chalkboard. McAlister prepared her classroom last week. Teachers are urging parents to volunteer in their children's classrooms this year, saying participation from parents can make a significant difference in the lives of their children.

• Build a bond with a school by visiting your children in class and attending parent-teacher conferences.
• Talk to your children about school every day. Show you are genuinely interested in their day by asking questions and getting involved in projects.
• Read to your children daily or encourage them to read extensively.
• Show children how to be organized, making use of homework as a platform for reinforcing the importance of staying on top of assignments.

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Bria Klotz, a fifth-grade teacher at Prairie Park School in Lawrence, said she was convinced parents could make a significant difference in the lives of children by volunteering at school.

Their contributions can range from serving as an additional set of eyes and ears in class on a regular basis to dropping by to deliver drinks at a holiday event, she said.

Klotz said children took notice of direct parent involvement.

“Get into class,” she said. “The kid will take ownership and is really proud.”