Research shows that the most accurate predictor of a student’s achievement is the extent of the family’s involvement and participation in school-related matters (Russell & Atawater, 2005, Miles & Watkins, 2004 & Smith & Hausafus, 1998). Parental support is critical to students’ success in STEM areas. In the Photonics Leaders II program, parents participate in workshops, field trips, special events, that inform parents about STEM careers, college preparation, and student achievements. The table below illustrates topics introduced to engage parents over the course of the two-year program.
| Content | Process/Activity/Workshop |
| Importance of Science, Mathematics and Technology in today’s careers | Student, teacher, mentor and parent orientations, readings |
| CFNC 529 Saving Plan and Student Resources (SAT Prep and College Selection) | Student Planner, Career Center, College Application |
FAFSA and Scholarship Information |
Research and Location of Resources |
| Communication and Internship Preparation | Packaging yourself for Success in the Global workplace |
| Goal Setting, Time Management and Writing Mission Statement | Developing Personal Mission Statement |
| Advocacy for your children | Linking parents with resources and problem-solving skills |
| High School Class Registration | Guidance Counselor |
| Career Coaching and Internship | Parent and students practice and study effective workplace behavior |
| College Scholarship and Loan | Completion of applications and forms |
Day to day parental support includes providing transportation, donations, and a supportive home study environment with access to the Internet. During the course of the program, newsletters are distributed monthly to keep parents informed of program activities.
This work by The Science House is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 3.0 Unported License.
Summer 2011
June 20 - June 24
June 27 - July 1
July 5 - 8 (Elluminate)
July 11 - July 15
Program Number 0833615
