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Why Parents Don't Attend School Events

  • Writer: Westley Baker
    Westley Baker
  • 2 days ago
  • 2 min read


You bought the pizza. Translated the flyers. Posted on facebook.


And still…the same few parents attended your parent event. It’s so frustrating. Especially since the last panorama survey said that parents want more workshops to learn how to support their kids at home. YOU JUST DID THAT but no one showed up.


Why is this?


As a former school leader who organizes and leads 100+ parent literacy workshops a year…


Your parents did not attend your event for 1 of 3 reasons.


  1. Your title sounded like a professional development workshop. What was the title at the top of your last flyer: LCAP Meeting, ELAC Meeting, Parent Literacy Workshop…who would want to get off work to go to work. I’ll share more on this one day.


  1. You skipped where they already are. How many of your parents attend the Fall Musical or the Soccer Games? Way more than the amount that attended your last STEAM night. Okay, use that. Hijack the agenda of that musical with two helpful literacy strategies parents can try at home to motivate their child to read. Make half time at the football game the moment for the book-giveaway. Bring your parent workshops to where the parents already are.


  1. Your front office is more Taco Bell than Chick Fil-A. When we grab our chicken sandwich from the drive thru line, that warm “My pleasure” really makes a difference. For the past 11 years, Chick Fil A has ranked #1 in customer satisfaction. What do parents hear as they enter and exit your front office: Is it thank you for coming in or good morning?! Some of our offices sound like a customer service desk at Target: How may I help you or who are you here to see? These types of interactions dissuade parents from developing a relationship with the school body. It is essential that staff are trained on developing a sense of welcome and belonging. If that doesn’t happen, we’ll remain where we are.


So, if you’re looking to increase your attendance at your parent-facing events, take it from someone who organizes and leads 100+ parent events a year. 1) Check your event titles 2) Interact with them where they are 3) Treat them like you’re so glad they came. 


For help leading parent literacy events and workshops, visit us at www.raisereaders.net. 


Article written by Wes Baker 

Principal Partner at Raise Readers Workshops


 
 
 

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