Framework in Action
Afterschool Activities for Parents and Students Improve Family Involvement

West Chicago, Ill., has had an influx of Mexican immigrants, and the local school district has had difficulties adjusting to these changes, including involving families in the school and the community. To address the challenge, a core management team member and West Chicago native remembered a time the police department worked with the schools in West Chicago to host athletic nights for students and families.

The core management team used that example and began to develop the concept of quarterly family and student nights at the local middle school. Each of the team members offered to lead an activity, and families, with their children and youth, were asked to participate in activities. Parents were invited to education sessions offered by the community mental health center on topics such as “How to Deal with My Adolescent,” and “Setting Limits with Young Children.” Students were offered a variety of activities, including sports/recreation for all ages sponsored by the police department. Teachers offered various arts and crafts activities and informal time to meet with parents. These informal evenings increased the level and frequency of parent participation in student activities and teacher conference.

Strategic Approach: