Role of State Policies in Supporting Immigrant Parental Involvement in California

1. How does California promote immigrant parental involvement in their children’s education?

There are several ways that California promotes immigrant parental involvement in their children’s education:

1. Multilingual resources: California offers a variety of multilingual resources for immigrant parents, such as translated materials and interpreters, to help them better understand the education system and their children’s academic performance.

2. Family Engagement Centers: The state has established Family Engagement Centers that serve as hubs for families with diverse backgrounds to learn about their rights and responsibilities in the education system, access resources, and participate in various workshops and trainings.

3. Parent Involvement Programs: Many schools in California offer parent involvement programs specifically tailored for immigrant parents, including ESL classes, cultural competency training, and parent leadership development programs.

4. Parental Notification Laws: California has laws requiring schools to involve parents in their children’s education by regularly communicating with them about attendance, grades, assessments, and other school events.

5. Collaborations with Community Organizations: The state collaborates with community-based organizations that work directly with immigrant families to provide support services and resources to help them navigate the education system.

6. Cultural Competency Training for Educators: California requires all teachers and school personnel to undergo cultural competency training to better understand the needs of immigrant students and how to engage their parents.

7. Embracing Diversity: Schools in California often celebrate diversity through cultural events, food festivals, and other activities that promote understanding and inclusivity among students from different backgrounds.

8. Online Resources: The state also provides online resources for immigrant parents, such as webinars, informational videos, and online forums where they can connect with other parents or educators for support or advice on navigating the education system.

9. Bilingual Education Programs: Many schools in California offer bilingual education programs that not only support academic success but also encourage strong parental involvement by creating opportunities for parents to be involved in their child’s learning process.

10. Local Initiatives: Some local school districts have developed specific initiatives to engage immigrant parents, such as organizing parent-teacher conferences with interpreters or hosting workshops on college and career readiness for immigrant families.

2. What are the key state policies in place to support immigrant parental involvement in California?


There are several key state policies in place to support immigrant parental involvement in California:

1. Language Access Programs: California has several programs in place to provide language access services for immigrant parents. These include translation and interpretation services in schools, as well as community outreach programs that provide information and resources for immigrant families.

2. Parental Engagement Grants: The California Department of Education provides grants to schools and districts to develop and implement programs that support parental involvement, particularly among underrepresented groups such as immigrants.

3. Parent-School Partnerships: Through the California State PTA’s School Smarts Parent Engagement Program, immigrant parents can participate in workshops and training sessions designed to help them become more involved in their children’s education.

4. Immigration Protection Measures: California has enacted several measures to protect the rights of undocumented immigrants, including laws that prohibit schools from asking about a student or parent’s immigration status without a legitimate purpose. This helps create a safe environment for immigrant families to participate in their children’s education.

5. Family Engagement Framework: The California State Board of Education has developed a Family Engagement Framework that guides school districts in developing strategies and actions plans to engage parents, particularly those from diverse backgrounds.

6. Dual Language Learning Programs: California supports dual language immersion programs, which aim to promote bilingualism and biliteracy among students who are learning English as a second language. This can help immigrant parents feel more connected to their child’s education by fostering cultural pride and promoting academic success.

7. Mental Health Services for Immigrant Families: California offers mental health services specifically designed for immigrant families, which recognize the unique challenges they face due to acculturation stress, family separation, or other factors related to immigration status.

8. Cultural Competency Training: State law requires all teachers and school staff members to undergo cultural competency training, which includes understanding how culture can play a role in academic performance and appreciating the diverse backgrounds of students and their families.

3. In what ways does the state government of California recognize and value the contributions of immigrant parents in the education system?


The state government of California recognizes and values the contributions of immigrant parents in the education system in several ways, including:

1. Providing resources and support for non-English speaking parents: The state offers translation services for non-English speaking parents, as well as informational materials in multiple languages. This helps immigrant parents understand and participate in their child’s education.

2. Encouraging parental involvement through policies: The state has policies that promote parental involvement in schools, such as the “Parent Involvement Policy” which requires schools to involve all families, including those who are limited English proficient or have limited formal education.

3. Offering parent education programs: The California Department of Education funds parent education programs that provide support and resources for immigrant parents in navigating the education system and helping their children succeed academically.

4. Recognizing the cultural diversity of families: The state acknowledges that different cultures have different approaches towards education, and encourages schools to be culturally responsive and inclusive. This allows immigrant parents to feel valued and respected within the school community.

5. Supporting bilingualism and multiculturalism: California has a large number of bilingual students, many of whom come from immigrant families. In recognition of this linguistic diversity, the state supports bilingualism by offering dual language immersion programs in schools.

6. Collaborating with community organizations: The state collaborates with community organizations that work specifically with immigrant families to provide additional resources and support for their children’s education.

7. Providing legal protections for undocumented students and their families: In 2011, California passed the California Dream Act which allows undocumented students to access financial aid for college. This provides opportunities for higher education to immigrant children whose parents may not have had access to these resources.

8. Celebrating cultural diversity: Through events like Multicultural Awareness Week and Multilingual Education Month, the state celebrates its cultural diversity and promotes understanding among different communities.

Overall, California recognizes and values the contributions of immigrant parents in the education system by providing various resources, support, and opportunities for involvement. These efforts not only benefit immigrant families but also promote diversity and inclusivity in the education system of California.

4. How does California ensure that language barriers do not hinder immigrant parental engagement in education?


California has several measures in place to support immigrant parental engagement in education despite language barriers. These include:

1. Multilingual Outreach and Communication: The California Department of Education (CDE) provides translated materials, such as school information and parent resources, in multiple languages to ensure non-English speaking parents can stay informed and engaged with their child’s education.

2. Bilingual Staff: Many schools in California have bilingual staff members who are able to communicate with parents in their preferred language. This helps to bridge the language barrier and encourages parents to actively participate in their child’s education.

3. Language Assistance Programs: Several school districts in California have established language assistance programs to provide translation and interpretation services for meetings between teachers and non-English speaking parents.

4. Parent Education Programs: The CDE offers parent education programs specifically designed for non-English speaking families, providing them with resources and strategies to help support their child’s learning at home.

5. Community Partnerships: Community organizations, such as local nonprofits or volunteer-based groups, often work in partnership with schools to provide additional support for immigrant families. These partnerships can include offering translation services or organizing workshops on how parents can effectively engage in their child’s education.

6. Technology Resources: With the rise of technology, schools in California are using online platforms and tools, such as Google Translate or language learning apps, to facilitate communication between teachers and non-English speaking parents.

Overall, these efforts aim to create a welcoming and inclusive environment for immigrant families and break down barriers that may hinder parental engagement in their child’s education.

5. What incentives or resources are available for schools in California to effectively involve immigrant parents in school activities?


There are a few incentives and resources available for schools in California to effectively involve immigrant parents in school activities:

1. Bilingual staff and translated materials: Many schools in California have bilingual staff who can communicate with parents who may not speak English fluently. Schools also provide translated materials, such as flyers and newsletters, to help parents understand important information about school events and their child’s education.

2. Parent centers: Some schools have dedicated parent centers that serve as a hub for communication and engagement with immigrant parents. These centers often offer workshops, training sessions, and other resources to help parents become more involved in their child’s education.

3. Family engagement programs: Some schools have family engagement programs that focus on building relationships between the school, families, and the community. These programs provide opportunities for immigrant parents to get involved in their child’s schooling through activities like volunteering and attending events.

4. Parent workshops and trainings: Schools often host workshops or trainings for parents on topics such as navigating the education system, understanding academic standards, and supporting their child’s learning at home.

5. Parent-teacher conferences: California law requires that all schools hold at least one parent-teacher conference each year to discuss each student’s academic progress and address any concerns or questions from parents.

6. Collaborations with community organizations: Schools may collaborate with local community organizations that work with immigrant families to support them in becoming more involved in their child’s education. These organizations can provide additional resources and support for both the school and the families.

7. Incentives for parent involvement: Some schools offer recognition or incentives to encourage parent involvement, such as awards for the most actively involved parents or extra credit opportunities for students whose parents attend school events.

8.Educational resources: The California Department of Education has several resources available for immigrant parents, including guides on how to navigate the education system, understand state academic standards, and support their child’s learning at home. These resources can be accessed online or at the school district’s office.

9. Parent education classes: Some schools offer parent education classes to help immigrant parents learn about the American education system, their rights and responsibilities, and how to support their child’s academic success.

10. Parent Resource Centers: Many schools in California have Parent Resource Centers that provide access to computers, internet, and helpful resources for parents who may not have these at home. They can use these resources to learn about their child’s schoolwork, communicate with teachers and stay informed about school events.

6. How has the role of state policies evolved over the years to better support immigrant parental involvement in California?


The role of state policies in supporting immigrant parental involvement in California has evolved significantly over the years. In the past, state policies often marginalized immigrant communities and hindered their ability to participate in school activities and events. However, with changing attitudes towards immigration and growing recognition of the benefits of parental involvement, state policies have shifted to better support immigrant families.

1. Providing Language Support: One key change in state policies has been the increased provision of language support for non-English speaking parents. This includes translation services for important documents, such as report cards and parent-teacher communication, as well as offering bilingual classes or interpreters for parent-teacher conferences.

2. Culturally Responsive Education: State policies now also focus on providing culturally responsive education that takes into account the unique needs and experiences of immigrant families. This includes promoting cultural awareness among teachers and staff, incorporating diverse perspectives into curriculum, and creating a welcoming environment for all students.

3. Funding for Parental Involvement Programs: In recent years, there has been an increase in funding for programs that specifically aim to involve immigrant parents in their children’s education. For example, the California Department of Education provides funding for Family Literacy Services, which offer workshops and classes for parents to improve their literacy skills.

4. Anti-Discrimination Policies: State policies now actively work towards eliminating discrimination against immigrants in the education system. This includes measures to prevent bullying based on race or national origin, creating safe spaces for immigrant students and families, and educating school staff on culturally sensitive practices.

5. Collaborative Partnerships: The state encourages collaboration between schools and community organizations to provide additional support to immigrant families. These partnerships can offer resources such as legal aid, mental health services, or after-school programs that promote parental involvement.

6. Comprehensive Immigration Reform: There have also been advocacy efforts by state policymakers towards comprehensive immigration reform at the federal level. This would provide a pathway to citizenship for undocumented immigrants, removing barriers that often prevent them from being fully involved in their children’s education.

Overall, the role of state policies has shifted towards fostering an inclusive and welcoming environment for immigrant families in California schools. By providing necessary resources and addressing issues of discrimination and access, these policies aim to promote the active involvement of immigrant parents in their children’s education.

7. Is there a specific department or agency within the state government focused on promoting and supporting immigrant parental involvement?


It varies by state. Some states may have a specific department or agency focused on promoting and supporting immigrant parental involvement, while others may have initiatives within existing departments or agencies. It is best to consult your state’s government website or contact your local Department of Education for more information.

8. What steps has California taken to foster a welcoming and inclusive environment for all parents, including immigrants, within the education system?


1. Non-Discrimination Laws: In California, state and federal laws strictly prohibit educational institutions from discriminating against any individual based on their race, national origin, religion, or immigration status.

2. The Trust Act: Passed in 2013, the Trust Act made California a “sanctuary state” by limiting local law enforcement’s cooperation with federal immigration authorities. This ensures that immigrant parents are not afraid to send their children to school due to fear of deportation.

3. Immigration Resource Centers: The California Department of Education has established Immigration Resource Centers throughout the state to provide resources and support for immigrant students and their families, including information on legal rights and access to education.

4. Multilingual Education Programs: California offers a variety of programs that cater specifically to English language learners (ELLs) and their families. These programs aim to create a welcoming environment for ELL students and ensure their academic success.

5. Translations & Interpretation Services: To bridge the language barrier between teachers, administrators, and non-English speaking parents, California public schools provide translations and interpretation services free of cost in order to promote effective communication.

6. Inclusion of Cultural Diversity & Sensitivity Training: All public school educators are required by law to be trained on cultural diversity so they can better understand and address the unique needs of immigrant families within the school system.

7. Charter Schools That Prioritize Equity & Inclusivity: Charter schools in California are held accountable for creating an inclusive environment for all students regardless of their ethnicity, race, or immigration status.

8. Undocumented Student Action Week: Each October, the California Community Colleges hold an Undocumented Student Action Week to educate students about resources available to them regardless of their immigration status.

9. Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA): Under this program, qualified undocumented youth who were brought into the United States illegally as children were granted temporary protection from deportation along with work authorization. DACA enabled these youth to attend and graduate from public schools in California.

10. Special Education for Undocumented Children: In 1982, the Supreme Court made it mandatory for all states to provide a free, appropriate education to students with disabilities, even if their parents are undocumented. This ensures that all children, regardless of their immigration status, have access to education in California.

9. Do schools in California offer any specialized programs or services designed specifically for immigrant parents to facilitate their involvement?


Yes, some schools in California offer specialized programs and services designed specifically for immigrant parent involvement. Here are a few examples:

1. Family Resource Centers: Many schools have Family Resource Centers that provide workshops and resources for parents, including those who are immigrants, to help them navigate the education system and support their children’s learning.

2. English as a Second Language (ESL) Classes: Some schools offer ESL classes specifically for immigrant parents to improve their English language skills and communication with the school and their child’s teachers.

3. Parent Liaison/Community Outreach Coordinator: Some schools have a designated Parent Liaison or Community Outreach Coordinator whose role is to work closely with immigrant parents and families, building relationships, connecting them to resources and providing translation services as needed.

4. Multilingual Materials: Schools may provide multilingual materials such as newsletters, brochures, and websites to ensure that immigrant parents can access information about school programs, events, and policies in their preferred language.

5. Ethnic/Cultural Events: Many schools organize events or celebrations that honor the ethnic or cultural backgrounds of their students’ families. These events can help bridge cultural gaps between immigrant families and the school community.

6. Interpreter Services: Schools may offer interpreter services during parent-teacher conferences or other meetings to ensure effective communication between school staff and immigrant parents who may not speak English fluently.

7. Parent Education Workshops: Some schools offer workshops on topics such as navigating the US education system, understanding academic requirements, college planning, etc., specifically tailored for immigrant parents.

8. Volunteer Opportunities: Schools may encourage immigrant parents to get involved in volunteer opportunities within the school or classroom setting as a way to increase their engagement with the education system.

9. Legal Assistance Referrals: In cases where legal assistance is needed related to immigration status or rights of undocumented students/families, some schools may refer parents to pro bono legal organizations for support and guidance.

10.How does California ensure that information and communications from schools are accessible and inclusive for non-English speaking parents?


California has several measures in place to ensure that information and communications from schools are accessible and inclusive for non-English speaking parents. These include:

1. Translation Services: The California Department of Education (CDE) offers translation and interpretation services for parents who speak languages other than English. This includes translated documents, over-the-phone interpreting, and on-site interpreting services.

2. Multilingual Resources: The CDE provides a range of multilingual resources for parents, such as fact sheets, handouts, brochures, and videos in different languages.

3. Bilingual Staff: Many schools in California have bilingual staff members who can communicate with non-English speaking parents in their native language.

4. Parent Liaisons: Some school districts have designated parent liaisons who serve as a bridge between non-English speaking families and the school, providing them with support and resources.

5. Multilingual Communication Strategies: Schools may use various strategies to communicate with non-English speaking parents, such as sending messages in multiple languages or using visual aids like pictures or graphics.

6.Two-Way Communication: Schools encourage two-way communication by providing opportunities for non-English speaking parents to ask questions, provide feedback, and participate in parent committees or organizations.

7. Language Assessment Tools: Before enrolling students whose first language is not English, schools must assess their English proficiency level using state-approved language assessment tools to determine if specialized instruction is needed.

8.Legal Requirements: California law requires that translated materials be provided to families whose home language is other than English if they make up 15% or more of the student population or 15% or more of the enrollment at a particular grade level.

9.Cultural Competency Training: Many schools provide cultural competency training for staff members to better understand and meet the needs of culturally diverse families.

10.Community Partnerships: Schools may partner with community organizations or local cultural centers to help facilitate communication with non-English speaking parents and involve them in school activities.

11. What strategies has California implemented to address cultural differences and possible misunderstandings between schools and immigrant parents when it comes to parent-school relationships?


California has implemented several strategies to address cultural differences and misunderstandings between schools and immigrant parents:

1. Bilingual and Multilingual Support: California has a large population of non-English speaking parents, and the state has implemented programs and services that provide bilingual and multilingual support at schools. This helps immigrant parents communicate effectively with school staff and understanding their children’s education.

2. Cultural Competency Training: Many schools in California offer cultural competency training to educators to help them understand the cultural backgrounds of their students, including immigrant families. This helps teachers to be more sensitive towards diverse cultures and better communicate with immigrant parents.

3. Community Liaison Programs: Several school districts in California have set up community liaison programs that serve as a bridge between schools and immigrant families. These liaisons are typically from the same community as the students, which helps to build trust and improve communication between parents and schools.

4. Parent Involvement Programs: California has invested in parent involvement programs that encourage participation from all parents, regardless of their background or cultural differences. These programs create a platform for immigrant parents to engage with the school community, get involved in decision-making processes, and build relationships with school staff.

5. Translation Services: To ensure effective communication between schools and immigrant parents, California provides translation services for important documents such as report cards, progress reports, parent-teacher conference materials, etc. This ensures that all parents can understand important information about their child’s education.

6. Peer Mentorship Programs: Some schools in California have implemented peer mentorship programs where experienced immigrant parents act as mentors for new immigrant families. This helps new families navigate the educational system and understand the cultural norms within the school community.

7. Culturally Responsive Curriculum: Schools in California have incorporated culturally responsive curriculum that includes diverse perspectives, histories, languages, traditions, etc., to help students feel represented and valued in their education.

Overall, these strategies aim to promote mutual understanding, respect, and communication between schools and immigrant parents, ultimately improving parent-school relationships.

12. Are there any specific laws or regulations in place that protect the rights and interests of immigrant parents with regards to their participation in their children’s education in California?

Yes, there are several laws and regulations in place to protect the rights and interests of immigrant parents in California:

1. Parental Involvement in Education: This law states that all schools receiving federal funds must develop policies and procedures to involve parents in their children’s education. This includes providing information to parents in a language they understand and offering opportunities for parent-teacher conferences.

2. Equal Access to Education: Under state and federal law, all children have the right to equal access to education, regardless of their immigration status or language proficiency.

3. Language Access: California has laws in place that require schools to provide interpretation and translation services for non-English speaking parents, including those who are immigrants.

4. Anti-Discrimination Laws: The California Fair Employment and Housing Act prohibits discrimination based on national origin, including discrimination against immigrant parents.

5. Confidentiality of Student Records: School districts must uphold the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA), which ensures that student records are kept confidential, regardless of the parent’s immigration status or citizenship.

6. Title VI of the Civil Rights Act: This federal law prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, or national origin in any program receiving federal funding, which includes public schools.

7. Protection from Immigration Enforcement Actions: California’s AB 540 law protects students from being reported to immigration authorities if they or their parents are undocumented.

8. Sanctuary School Policies: Some school districts have adopted sanctuary school policies that limit collaboration with immigration enforcement agencies and protect the privacy of students and families.

9. Community Resources: Various community organizations provide support for immigrant families with resources such as legal assistance, advocacy services, and guidance on navigating the education system.

10. Educational Equity Policies: Some school districts have adopted educational equity policies that aim to address disparities for underserved student groups, including immigrants.

11. Foster Youth Bill of Rights: The Foster Youth Bill of Rights outlines the rights and protections of foster youth, including immigrant youth in foster care, and ensures that they have access to education.

12. Immigration Status Discrimination: The California Department of Education has a policy prohibiting discrimination based on immigration status in all educational programs, activities, and services.

13. Sanctuary Campus Policies: Some higher education institutions in California have adopted sanctuary campus policies to protect undocumented students from immigration enforcement actions and provide support for them.

13. How does California address issues such as financial barriers or transportation challenges that may prevent immigrant parents from being actively involved in school activities?


1) Free and reduced-price lunch program: California offers free or reduced-price school meals for eligible students. This can help alleviate financial barriers for immigrant families who may struggle to afford school meals.

2) Transportation assistance: Some schools and districts in California offer transportation assistance for students, such as bus passes or carpool programs, to help ensure that all students have access to school activities even if their parents are unable to drive them.

3) Multilingual communication: Schools in California are required by law to provide information and communicate with parents in a language they understand. This ensures that immigrant parents who may not speak English fluently can still access important information about school activities.

4) Parent education programs: Many schools in California offer parent education programs specifically tailored for immigrant families. These programs provide resources and support for parents on topics such as navigating the education system, supporting their child’s academic success, and understanding their rights as immigrant families.

5) Community partnerships: Schools can partner with community organizations that serve immigrant communities to help address financial barriers or transportation challenges. For example, these organizations may be able to provide transportation or financial assistance for families in need.

6) Flexible scheduling: Some schools offer flexible scheduling for parent-teacher conferences or other school events, taking into account the schedules of working parents. This allows immigrant parents who may work multiple jobs or have other time constraints to still participate in school activities involving their child.

7) Virtual involvement opportunities: With the increasing use of technology in education, many schools now offer virtual options for parent involvement, such as participating in meetings or events remotely. This allows immigrant parents who may have limited mobility or face transportation challenges to still be involved in their child’s education.

14. What partnerships, if any, exist between state agencies and community organizations to support and engage with immigrant parents regarding their children’s education?


Partnerships between state agencies and community organizations to support and engage with immigrant parents regarding their children’s education vary by state. Some possible examples include:

1. State education departments may partner with nonprofit organizations that specialize in providing resources and support to immigrant families, such as the National Council of La Raza or the Asian Pacific American Legal Center.

2. State departments of human services may partner with organizations that focus on assisting refugees and asylees, such as the International Rescue Committee or the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees.

3. State departments of health may collaborate with community health centers that serve immigrant populations, providing information about available educational opportunities and resources.

4. State child welfare agencies may work with cultural competency training programs to improve communication and understanding between caseworkers and immigrant families.

5. Local school districts or individual schools may partner with local community-based organizations to provide translation services for parent-teacher conferences, workshops on how to navigate the U.S. education system, or after-school programs that promote academic success for immigrant students.

6. Immigrant advocacy groups may partner with government agencies to develop outreach materials and campaigns aimed at educating parents about their rights and responsibilities within the education system.

7. Nonprofit legal aid organizations may collaborate with schools to help immigrant parents understand their rights in accessing public education for their children, including language access requirements under federal laws like Title VI of the Civil Rights Act.

8. Community colleges or adult education programs may work closely with immigrant-serving organizations to offer English as a Second Language (ESL) classes for parents who want to improve their English proficiency in order to better support their children’s education.

Overall, partnerships between state agencies and community organizations can play a crucial role in supporting immigrant parents’ involvement in their children’s education by providing culturally sensitive resources, bridging language barriers, addressing legal concerns, and building trust between government entities and immigrant communities.

15. Are there avenues for feedback or input from immigrant parents on how state policies can be improved to better support their involvement in their children’s education?


Yes, there are several avenues for feedback and input from immigrant parents on how state policies can be improved to better support their involvement in their children’s education.

1. Parent-Teacher Conferences: Educators and school administrators can invite immigrant parents to attend parent-teacher conferences to discuss their child’s progress and provide feedback on school policies and programs.

2. Advisory Committees: Many states have advisory committees that include representation from diverse community groups, including immigrant families. These committees may be tasked with providing recommendations on how to better engage and support immigrant families in the education system.

3. Surveys: States can conduct surveys specifically targeted towards immigrant families to gather their insights and feedback on their experiences with the education system and suggestions for improvement.

4. Focus Groups: In addition to surveys, states can also organize focus groups with immigrant parents to have more in-depth discussions on specific issues related to their involvement in their children’s education.

5. Community Forums: Schools or local organizations may organize community forums or town hall meetings where immigrant parents can share their perspectives and suggestions for improving state policies related to parental involvement in education.

6. Online Platforms: Many states have online platforms or portals where parents can access information about state policies and programs related to education. These platforms may also allow for feedback or suggestions from parents on how these policies can be improved.

7. Parent Organizations: There may be parent organizations or advocacy groups specifically focused on supporting the involvement of immigrant families in their children’s education. State officials can collaborate with these organizations to gather feedback and input on policy improvements.

8. Multilingual Resources: Providing information about state policies related to parental involvement in multiple languages can also encourage participation from immigrant parents, enabling them to provide feedback through various channels, such as email or phone calls.

9. Collaboration with Community Leaders: Collaborating with leaders from diverse communities, such as religious leaders or community organizers, can also provide valuable insights into the views and concerns of immigrant families and their suggestions for policy improvements.

10. Parental Involvement Programs: States can also create programs or initiatives specifically aimed at supporting the involvement of immigrant parents in their children’s education. These programs can include opportunities for parents to provide feedback and suggestions on how to improve state policies.

16. What initiatives or programs has California introduced to ensure immigrant parents are actively involved in decision-making processes within the education system?


Governor Gavin Newsom signed a new law, Assembly Bill 276, which aims to support immigrant parents’ participation in school decision-making. This law specifies that school districts must provide translation services for meetings and notices, as well as bilingual materials and documents. Additionally, the law requires school districts to ensure that information about the district’s governance structure is available in the languages most commonly spoken by parents of students in the district.

The California Department of Education also offers a variety of resources and programs aimed at promoting parent engagement in education. These include:

1. Family Engagement Initiative: This initiative provides resources, training, and technical assistance to schools and districts on how to create effective family engagement practices.

2. Parent Involvement Reflection Tool (PIRT): PIRT is an online assessment tool designed to help schools evaluate their current level of parent involvement, identify areas for improvement, and plan strategies for engaging parents more effectively.

3. English Learner Family Toolkit: This toolkit provides guidance and resources for schools and families on how to support English Language Learners (ELLs) and their families.

4. Parental Involvement Policies: California law requires all school districts to develop written policies outlining ways for parents to be involved in their child’s education.

5. Regional Parent Engagement Collaboration Groups: These groups bring together local educators, community organizations, and families to share best practices and collaborate on ways to increase family engagement in education.

Overall, California has implemented several initiatives and programs aimed at ensuring immigrant parents are actively involved in decision-making processes within the education system. However, there is still room for improvement and continued efforts are needed to fully involve all parents in their children’s education.

17. How are the voices and perspectives of immigrant parents from diverse backgrounds represented and included in state-level discussions on parental involvement?


The voices and perspectives of immigrant parents from diverse backgrounds may be represented and included in state-level discussions on parental involvement in a variety of ways. Some possible strategies or mechanisms for incorporating these voices and perspectives may include:

1. Conducting surveys or focus groups: State education departments can reach out to immigrant communities through surveys or focus groups to gather insights and feedback from parents on their experiences with parental involvement.

2. Multilingual outreach: State education departments can use multiple languages to communicate with immigrant parents, making it easier for them to understand and participate in discussions on parental involvement.

3. Collaborating with community organizations: State education departments can partner with community organizations that work closely with immigrant families to ensure their voices are heard and represented in discussions on parental involvement.

4. Providing interpretation services: During meetings or events where parental involvement is discussed, state education departments can provide interpretation services so that immigrant parents who do not speak English fluently can fully participate.

5. Involving immigrant parent leaders: Identifying and involving immigrant parent leaders in state-level discussions on parental involvement can provide valuable insights and perspectives from those who have experience navigating the education system as immigrants.

6. Including diversity training for school staff: State education departments can incorporate diversity training for school staff to ensure they are knowledgeable about various cultures and can effectively communicate and engage with immigrant families.

7. Developing culturally relevant materials: It is important that materials related to parental involvement are culturally relevant and easy for immigrant parents to understand, taking into account language barriers, cultural differences, and other factors.

8. Host town hall-style meetings: Organizing town hall-style meetings at the state level where educators, policymakers, and immigrant parents can come together to discuss strategies for improving parental involvement among diverse communities.

9. Utilizing social media platforms: Many immigrants use social media platforms as a means of communication, which provides an opportunity for state education departments to connect with them and gather their feedback on issues related to parental involvement.

10. Incorporating immigrant parent perspectives in policies and programs: State education departments can involve immigrant parents in the development of policies and programs related to parental involvement, ensuring that their perspectives and needs are considered.

18. How does California promote collaborations between schools, teachers, and immigrant parents for the academic success of students from immigrant families?


California promotes collaborations between schools, teachers, and immigrant parents through various initiatives and programs. These include:

1. Parent Engagement Programs: Many schools in California have created parent engagement programs that aim to involve immigrant parents in their child’s education. These programs provide workshops, resources, and training to help parents understand the school system and support their child’s academic success.

2. Language Access: California has laws that ensure language access for non-English speaking parents in schools. This includes translated materials, interpreters, and bilingual staff to bridge the communication barrier between schools and immigrant families.

3. Community-Based Organizations: Community-based organizations play a significant role in promoting collaborations between schools, teachers, and immigrant parents. These organizations work closely with immigrant communities to understand their needs and connect them with local schools and resources.

4. Dual Language Programs: Many schools in California offer dual-language programs where students from different linguistic backgrounds learn together in both English and their native language. This not only helps promote cultural understanding but also encourages parental involvement as they can better understand what is being taught at school.

5. Multicultural Curriculum: California requires public schools to include multicultural content in their curriculum, which helps students from immigrant families feel represented and valued in the classroom setting.

6. School-Family Compacts: Some schools have developed school-family compact agreements that outline the roles of both teachers and parents in supporting students’ academic success.

7. Family Resource Centers: Many schools have established family resource centers that act as a hub for resources and information for immigrant families. These centers often offer English classes for parents, workshops on parenting skills, and other essential skills needed to support their child’s education.

8. Parental Involvement Policies: Schools are required by law to develop parental involvement policies that encourage active participation from all families, including those from immigrant backgrounds.

By promoting these initiatives and programs, California aims to foster strong partnerships between schools, teachers, and immigrant parents to support the academic success of students from immigrant families.

19. Are there any notable success stories or examples of how state policies have positively impacted immigrant parental involvement in California?


Yes, there are several notable success stories and examples of how state policies have positively impacted immigrant parental involvement in California. Here are a few:

1. The California Dream Act: This state policy, passed in 2011, allows undocumented immigrant students to apply for state financial aid for college. This has not only increased the number of undocumented immigrant students attending college, but also encouraged their parents to be more involved in their children’s education and future.

2. Biliteracy Seal Program: In 2016, California became the first state to offer a Biliteracy Seal on high school diplomas to recognize students who have achieved proficiency in two or more languages. This has had a positive impact on the immigrant community as it encourages and values linguistic diversity, and fosters stronger connections between schools and families from diverse backgrounds.

3. Parental Involvement Legislation: In 2012, the state enacted legislation that requires schools to involve parents in decision-making processes related to programs and services offered to English Language Learners (ELLs). These policies have resulted in increased collaboration between schools and immigrant families, leading to better educational outcomes for ELLs.

4. Parental Notification Laws: California has laws that require schools to provide information about students’ academic progress and any interventions being provided to parents of ELLs. These laws have helped immigrant parents understand their children’s educational needs and become more actively involved in their education.

5. Professional Development Programs: The University of California’s Teachers Investigating Education & Literacy with Sociocultural Theory (TIELS) program provides professional development opportunities for teachers working with culturally diverse students, including immigrants. This has led to educators gaining a deeper understanding of cultural differences, resulting in improved family-school partnerships.

Overall, these policies have had a positive impact on immigrant parental involvement by promoting inclusive and supportive environments that value diversity and cultural differences.

20. As a state government, what is your long-term vision for increasing and sustaining immigrant parental involvement in education across California?


Our long-term vision for increasing and sustaining immigrant parental involvement in education across California is to create a welcoming and inclusive school environment that values and supports the diverse backgrounds and experiences of all families. This includes:

1. Promoting cultural competence: We believe that schools should strive to understand and respect the cultural backgrounds, beliefs, and values of immigrant families. This can be achieved through training for teachers and staff on cultural competency, as well as incorporating culturally responsive curriculum.

2. Providing language access: One of the biggest barriers for immigrant parents to get involved in their child’s education is language barriers. To address this, we will provide resources such as translated materials, interpretation services, and bilingual staff to ensure that immigrant families can effectively communicate with school staff.

3. Engaging parents in decision-making: We recognize the importance of involving parents in decision-making processes that impact their children’s education. This can include parent representation on school boards or committees, as well as regular opportunities for parents to provide feedback and ideas.

4. Offering parent education programs: We believe that providing opportunities for immigrant parents to learn about the U.S. education system and how they can support their child’s learning at home is crucial for long-term involvement. We will work with community organizations to offer workshops or classes on topics such as navigating the school system, understanding academic expectations, and supporting student success.

5. Fostering partnerships between schools and communities: Schools cannot do it alone when it comes to supporting the education of immigrant students; community organizations also play a crucial role. We will work to build partnerships between schools and community organizations that serve immigrant families, leveraging their knowledge and resources to better support students’ academic success.

6. Recognizing the strengths of immigrant families: Immigrant families bring unique skills, experiences, and perspectives that can enrich our classrooms and school communities. Our long-term vision includes recognizing and celebrating these strengths through initiatives such as multicultural events or highlighting student and family achievements.

Overall, our goal is to break down barriers and create an inclusive and equitable education system that values the contributions of all families, including immigrant families. We believe that by working together with schools, communities, and families, we can create a brighter future for all immigrant students in California.