**Morgan, I., Gillispie, C., & Waller, A. (2014). Engaging first: Supporting young learners through family engagement. The Education Trust. https://edtrust.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/Engaging-First-V8.pdf
This paper discusses the challenges and complexities of family engagement, and the opportunities it presents in best serving students and communities at large. It emphasizes the importance of meaningful engagement, which should go beyond events like parent-teacher conferences and include shared decision-making and culturally responsive practices. The authors highlight that schools should address barriers to participation and tailor engagement strategies to meet the unique needs of their specific community’s families to ensure shared involvement in their children's education.
**Wood, L., Shankland, L., Jordan, C., & Pollard, J. (2014). How districts can lay the groundwork for lasting family engagement. SEDL Insights, 2(2). https://sedl.org/insights/2-2/District_Support_for_Family_Engagement.pdf
The authors of this article argue that school districts should create a supportive infrastructure for lasting family engagement, which could be a crucial, missing part of improving student outcomes. They recommend that districts provide training and resources to all school staff who interact with families, integrate family engagement into educator evaluation systems, and leverage multiple funding sources to support engagement work. The article emphasizes building partnerships with community organizations and local businesses to enhance engagement efforts. When done well, family engagement is a systemic practice supported by district-wide policies and collaborative efforts.
**This document is a priority reading.