The Impact of Parents in the Classroom

by Tekestebirhan Kassaye, All City Elementary Parent

Children spend much of their day in the classroom. During conferences, many parents are surprised to learn how different their child is at school versus their experience with them at home. For some families, getting involved at school has positively impacted the child and the whole family. The ‘Hood Magazine staff recently talked with Tekestebirhan Kassaye, an Ethiopian father of six, about his family’s experience with getting involved with his children’s education.

“I moved here from Ethiopia in 2008. My wife, Eden, and I have six children, from a newborn to age 12. Back home, I worked as the dean of educational planning and management at a university, so I know the importance of education.

As an immigrant family, parent commitment at school is not easy. Many in our community work hard and are unable to get away from their jobs to allow them the time for school involvement. I am blessed with a wonderful employer that provides me the flexibility to make this a priority. We have been lucky to be involved with our children’s education as it has so many benefits. First, we know the strengths and weaknesses of each child, so we can help celebrate and nurture them. It also provides us with common things to talk about since I know their friends and classmates and what they are learning. Additionally, it allows me to understand their school culture so we can reflect that at home as well. Our children benefit by having other parents in the classroom, allowing them to see and experience other family units and build confidence in interacting with other adults in a safe zone. Not only do the families benefit, but the teachers and school as well. Parents can provide the teachers with assistance so they can focus on teaching. This support increases the quality of education. With parents being hands-on, the children also get exposed to more extracurricular activities.

We have been pleased with our education experience here and are fortunate to have found a good system that provides a significant impact on our family.” l