The Role of Families 
Research is clear on the benefit of engaging families in schools on multiple levels- from the support of learning, to participation in school governance. When parents are engaged in their children’s education, their children do better academically and socially. Pilot School governing boards include family representatives, and other forums for family leadership exist, including parent organizations. For example, the Baldwin Early Learning Center has both a School Parent Council (SPC) and 'Room Parents.' The SPC is comprised of parents and families and serves as 'a forum for parents to voice their ideas, opinions, and concerns.' Room Parents represent each classroom on the SPC and 'act as liaisons among the classroom, the parents, and the principal.' For more information on parental involvement visit the Bladwin Early Learning Center.

    Because families choose a Pilot School for their children, they feel a special sense of ownership and responsibility for the school. As Grace Sanchez, parent of a student at Lilla Frederick explained, “They [staff and administration] help me understand that I have a voice.” Many Pilot Schools grew directly out of family and community advocacy for high-quality, community-centered schools, such as Greater Egleston Community High School. A coalition of community organizations, including tenant groups, neighborhood and business associations, churches, and the local community development corporation advocated to convert the alternative high school program into a Pilot School.