Dear Irving ISD Family,

When Irving ISD schools say “Our House Is Your House,” we really mean it. We want you to feel welcome inside our walls, truly engaged in your children’s education.

Why do we deliver such a strong invitation and communicate it regularly? Because research shows that family and community involvement makes a huge difference in student achievement. Basically, we can’t do it without you, whether you are a parent, a sibling, a mentor or a supportive community member and taxpayer. The home environment is the strongest indicator of student success.

We are reaching out to families with the “Our House” campaign based upon solid research. National surveys show schools where teachers reported high levels of outreach to parents, test scores grew at a rate 40% higher than in schools where teachers reported low levels of outreach. Here are some of the benefits of family and community involvement:

For students:

• Higher grades and test scores
• Better attendance and more homework done
• Higher graduation rates

For parents:

• More access to school and district officials
• Greater likelihood parents themselves will enroll in continuing education
• Greater respect from teachers and administrators

For schools and communities:

• Greater involvement of community businesses and organizations
• Better alignment of curriculum with workforce needs
• More support from families and taxpayers

 
You may think it’s difficult to be involved. You’re busy, you don’t feel up to the task, or don’t feel welcomed at school.  We ask you to try because it’s easy to do.  If you’re too busy to come to school, simply engage your child in a conversation about what happened each day at school. It shows you care.

You don’t have to know algebra to make sure your child completes homework assignments.  Use everyday moments -- like trips to the bank, grocery store or gas station -- to teach your child about using an ATM card, reading food labels or conserving  energy.

If you haven’t been to a school lately, we ask that you give it a try.  Come inside the walls.  Let us know your concerns.  Ask to meet with your child’s teacher.  Check out the Parent Resource Center and adult classes at many of our schools.  We promise to answer your questions.

Our welcome mat for families is out. If you can’t come to the school, visit our parents page on our website. Always remember, Nuestra Casa Es Su Casa...Our House Is Your House.

Sincerely,

Dana T. Bedden, Ed.D.
Superintendent of Schools