The ParentCamp Podcast – Season 1 – Episode 5 – Empowering Parents: A Superintendent’s Perspective on Building Engaged School Communities

Summary & Show Notes:

In this episode of The ParentCamp Podcast, host April F. Draine is joined by Julie Pile, ParentCamp President and special guest Dr. Randy Poe, Executive Director of the Northern Kentucky Education Council and former Superintendent of Boone County Schools. Dr. Poe shares his invaluable perspective on fostering meaningful partnerships between parents, schools, and communities. Drawing on his 38 years in education, Dr. Poe highlights the importance of treating parents as partners, empowering them to take leadership roles, and creating a culture of trust and collaboration.

The conversation delves into Dr. Poe’s initiatives as Superintendent, including the “Parent Power Award” and the innovative “Parent Ambassadors” program, which empowered parents to advocate for their schools and communities along with adding a Student Board Member representative to the Boone County School Board.  Dr. Poe emphasizes the role of intentional communication, professional development for parents, and student engagement in creating lasting impacts on school culture and student success. Through heartfelt stories and actionable insights, this episode provides a blueprint for transforming schools into vibrant, collaborative communities.

Key Takeaways:
  • Engaged parents are the key to student and school success.
  • Schools should provide professional development opportunities for parents to help them engage effectively such as supporting programs like the Commonwealth Institute for Parent Leadership
  • Programs like Parent Ambassadors and recognition initiatives foster deeper connections between families and schools.
  • Collaboration among parents, students, and educators builds trust and opens doors for innovative solutions to challenges.
Key Quotes:
  • “Parents are the child’s first teacher. When they remain engaged, we see students thrive both in and out of the classroom.”
  • “Trust and communication are the cornerstones of successful parent and community engagement.”
  • “If we invite parents and students into the conversation, we build a stronger, more inclusive school community.”
Show Notes:

For more information and to listen to the episode visit Apple, Spotify or on ParentCamp’s Podcast YouTube Playlist.

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