Scholars who learn through an independent study program such as Compass Charter Schools (CCS) need support from their families throughout their academic career. Although scholars are encouraged to develop a strong sense of independence, they still need involvement and encouragement from their family and friends. There are many different ways for families to support their scholar’s learning experience. While it’s important for them to attend school meetings and read important notices, there are so many other ways for families to get involved. It’s critical that each family knows how to participate in their child’s educational journey, and understands the importance of their support.
Building strong relationships with your scholar’s teacher(s) is a necessary part of supporting their learning. At CCS the learning coaches, or parents and guardians, are encouraged to support their scholars by reaching out to their scholar’s teachers through phone calls, emails, video chats, etc. to build relationships with open communication. Also, it’s important for learning coaches to consistently meet with their scholar’s counselors to discuss social development and academic achievement. Teachers can offer learning coaches support so that they can guide their scholar’s learning outside of the classroom. Families who build strong relationships with their child’s teachers can stay more informed as they guide their child throughout their learning experience.
It’s important for learning coaches to stay connected with their child’s school and to use the supportive resources that are available to them. CCS hosts quarterly Town Hall meetings, which provide families with important updates and information about the school. Families are encouraged to join these meetings to ask questions, share ideas and stay informed about the school. CCS also proudly offers learning coaches a community resource called Coaches’ Corner, which allows parents to gather twice a month to support each other through open dialog. During these virtual meetings parents are able to discuss unique topics, ask questions, and receive advice from others who can relate to their educational experience. Learning coaches at CCS are also invited to join the Parent Advisory Council, which allows parents to provide feedback on school policies and procedures to ensure that they align with its mission and meets scholars’ needs.
Independent study programs allow scholars and their families to learn together. Learning coaches should consider helping their children with homework and class projects. Getting involved with school work gives parents the opportunity to guide their scholar’s learning, answer questions and dive deeper into each subject. Class projects are a wonderful way for scholars and parents to work together to research, build or design the projects. Encouragement and support from parents can help children enjoy learning and take pride in their work. Reading together is another great way for learning coaches to encourage their scholar’s successful learning. When families read together they learn, explore and imagine together. Reading as a family can help children build literacy, creativity, and develop a passion for literature.
When families have the proper educational resources and support, they can successfully encourage their scholar’s academic growth and development. It’s important that parents are treated as valued partners with their child’s school. Family engagement can help every scholar succeed academically and reach their full potential. CCS truly cares about the growth and development of every scholar, and is proud to offer so many supportive resources for each family.
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Compass Charter Schools (CCS) is a WASC-accredited virtual charter school that serves families throughout California. Interested in learning more about CCS’ flexible academic programs? Visit our website, or contact our enrollment team at enrollment@compasscharters.org or (877) 506-8631.