Parents as Partners

A key element of DC PIRC is the Parents as Partners (PAP) training, which takes parents on a step-by-step journey through the process of school achievement with the goal of getting their children into college. The PAP program was developed by Stanford University in conjunction with the nation's largest Hispanic civil rights group, the National Council of La Raza (NCLR). Implemented successfully in Arizona, California, Kansas and Texas, the program originally targeted Hispanic parents only. MCS adapted the program for the Washington DC area, ensuring that it would reach all parents in the city, deliberately targeting the English-speaking majority. MCS holds the nine week parent training in Parent Centers and Partner Sites. Children often attend the sessions with their parents and gain the knowledge and determination necessary to succeed academically and go to college.

• Better appreciate the value of, and learn how to access, quality early childhood education programs that give their children a full healthy start and prepare them for entering the school system.
• Understand the evaluation data on schools and student performance that is made available to them, and the opportunities for supplemental services and school choice they might have as a result.
• Become active participants in the development, implementation, and review of school improvement plans.
• Learn to communicate effectively with teachers, principals, counselors, administrators, and other personnel.

• How to hold a conference with their child's teacher or counselor.
• What their children need to graduate from high school and enter college.
• What home activities are academically productive, such as reading at least three to five times per week.

For more information the MCS main office at 202-238-9355

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