Congresswoman Robin Kelly toured Forest Trail School with Board of Education President Walter Mosby, Board Members Allison McCray, Shirley McDonald, and Margaret McDannel. (PHOTO SUPPLIED)
Park Forest, IL-(ENEWSPF)- Engaging reading activities, classroom units that incorporated technology and made the best use of its resources and math classes that encouraged students to use their analytical skills were among the things that visitors observed when they attended Park Forest-Chicago Heights School District 163’s first “Bring Your Parents to School Day” on Monday, October 7.
More than 600 people attended the day that was designed to encourage parents to become more involved in their children’s education. While the focus was on parent involvement, community members and elected officials were included so that they could learn more about their schools. U.S. Representative Robin Kelly was among those who attended and visited the District’s 21st Century Preparatory Center and Forest Trail School.
“After touring both schools, I was very impressed with the innovative math and technology programs that are preparing students for today’s digital world,” Congresswoman Kelly said. “I was pleased to see that many of the students I met had outstanding computer skills and were enthusiastic about careers in science and technology. We are tremendously fortunate that District 163 schools are able to offer advanced programs and state-of-the-art technology during a time when school funding is extremely tight.”
Attendees had the opportunity to visit classes, participate in class activities and attend Parent Workshops that were held at all schools. The District’s theme this year is, “Preparing for college and career readiness,” and the day’s events and decorations were tied into this theme.
District 163’s event is based on legislation recently signed by Governor Quinn that allows all Illinois school districts to designate the first Mondayin October as “Bring Your Parents to School Day.” The law takes effect January 1, 2014. District 163 decided to get a head start on the concept.
“It is always gratifying to see parents and community members in our schools,” remarked Board of Education President Walter Mosby. “Their presence underscores for children that they value education and their children’s efforts to do well in school. It was an inspiring day and I look forward to next year’s event.”
Superintendent Joyce Carmine commented, “We were pleased with the number of people who attended ‘Bring Your Parents to School Day’ and took the time to learn more about District 163 schools. It was a wonderful opportunity for parents and the community to experience the many creative and innovative programs that are in place in the District. Our parents and community play a vital role in our children’s education so it is beneficial to our students that these partners are well informed and feel welcome. I think we accomplished this.”
