The Parent Empowerment Program (PEP) was formed with the vision that, in order to support each student’s civil right to a high-quality education throughout the city, there must be a concerted effort to improve our public education system by empowering parents and students from within. It is clear, from many studies throughout the nation, parent engagement embedded in the school setting can change the outcome and direction of many students who are typically marginalized for various reasons. Empowering parents and supporting the community in being stronger and more confident advocates for children, could influence the academic outcome for the school and maintain a more civically engaged community.
By working through Washington Lawyers’ Committee School Partnership Program, at least twenty D.C. Public Schools (DCPS) parent groups will have an opportunity to choose an academic enrichment project that will increase parent participation and student enthusiasm in learning. The expectation for PEP is to match funds raised by parent groups each year. Principals, teachers, and parents at the local schools will select programs/activities for Fund support based on the needs they perceive. Law and Accounting Firms that are in the DC Public School Partnership Program will support their partner schools in making sound, equitable and informed decisions when choosing which academic enrichment project will create lasting change in their school.
If interested in supporting the Parent Empowerment Program, please contact Jhonna Turner, Parent Engagement Coordinator, at [email protected] or 202-319-1000, x 136; or Kent Withycombe, Education Project Director, at [email protected] or 202-319-1000, x 145.