Beyond the Textbook: Building Relationships Between Teachers and Diversely-Structured Families (Promising Practices) (Report‪)‬

Introduction It has been no secret that today's schools are faced with many challenges. U.S. schools are struggling with low test scores, high drop-out rates, and unequal quality public education. These schools are also struggling to meet the needs of an ever changing population of students. The changing demographics in our schools present challenges to teachers and administrators. In addition to working to improve grades, schools are faced with the challenge of building relationships with families to ensure that the needs of all students are met. Schools that strive to create better learning environments for children strive to empower all parents--not just ones from traditional families (Muscott et al, 2008). In order to build successful schools it becomes crucial for schools to build partnerships with diverse families.