SELF-REPORTED INDICATORS

Schools may choose to describe up to two additional pieces of information about how their school is supporting students. These self-reported indicators are not factored into school accountability calculations but provide the opportunity for schools to highlight successful programs or practices in addition to the indicators included in school accountability.

PARENT & FAMILY ENGAGEMENT Parent Engagement Parent participation is an essential feature of the Open Classroom. Families are asked to offer their support and assistance by co-oping the classroom weekly, serving in a leadership role or on a school committee, and participating in parent meetings which are held in the evening most months of the school year. Co-oping in the classroom is a valuable experience for the parents, the students, and the teachers because of the many benefits it offers. Parents gain a deep knowledge of the learning methods and objectives and offer their own unique expertise to the class. Students are supported by co-opers in small group work, independent work, and friendships. Teachers gain a greater ability to provide small group and individual support to enhance personal development and learning outcomes. OC Committees: OC families support the school by serving on a variety of committees. Current committee opportunities include include steering, cafeteria, garden, traffic, fundraising, publicity, community connections, community support, philosophy, new families, web, and charter renewal. Parent Meetings: Parents are invited to come together 5-6 times during the year in the homeroom or grade blend for a meeting to learn about upcoming projects, events, and other topics. The parent meetings provide a forum for parents to ask questions, provide feedback, and form a community around the success of all students.