ACTIONN VOICES

Amanda Ferris, Trainer Middle School Teacher, Doesn't Give Up on Students

I feel so blessed by the experience of doing Parent Teacher Home Visits. One of the messages I give is that I am not going to give up on their child. Once I build that connection with the parent, they get it that I am there 200% for their child.

I found that at first the kids are scared because they don't know what to expect when I come to their home. But after it goes so well, they start asking me when am I coming back to their home?

During a home visit I create a relationship with the parent that proves powerful for the child, the parent and for me. Then I work to empower them to be their child's advocate. This results in the students' motivation growing and a jump in the parents' participation in school activities.

One child, Anna*, was so quiet and didn't try at all when I first met her. I did a home visit and found that the family was really struggling financially despite the dad working all the time. But, after the home visit, Anna opened up at school, began to do her work, tried harder, and her confidence grew. Then, her mom became very involved and attended the school events and activities. They both knew that I cared about Anna and her future. I am so happy to report that she got accepted into the International Baccalaureate Program at Wooster High School, which is very competitive, and a big honor and advantage to her successful future.

Over and over I see parents who want to help their child with school, but don't know how to ask or where to go. I know that I can be the bridge to help them be the best at helping their child at home. But to do this, it is essential that we build trust through the Parent Teacher Home Visits.

After a home visit, I go home knowing that my time has been well spent.

*Name has been changed to protect privacy of student