Just as a teacher evaluates a student’s progress from year-to-year and makes adjustments, so too must school staff evaluate the impact of public engagement efforts. You’ll want to know whether your hard work is producing results. Be sure to involve all staff members in this effort. This way, everyone is clear on what is working, what is not and how to improve it.

Here are some questions to consider:

• Are you meeting your goals and objectives in terms of involving families and community members in your school?

• How are parents and community members contributing to decisions about student learning?

• Are school events, workshops or training sessions well attended by school staff and families? Why or why not?

• In what ways have you integrated language and culture reflective of your community into the school, events and curriculum?

• Are interpreters readily available?

• Do you have a community or parent liaison with strong ties to the community?

• Is your school warm and inviting? Is there a family center?

Taking the time to assess how people are reacting to your communications efforts is also important. Ask parents and community members for ways to improve communication. Respond to what they say by talking about how you will incorporate some or all of their advice as you refine your community engagement plan. Share these reactions with school staff.