Our classes include:

1. "Data Based Advocacy"
   Parents and community persons will learn the role of data and information in bringing about change in their children's school environment; how to collect, analyze and use data; how to work with educational professionals in finding and using information for school reform. The presenter will introduce the "Dynamic Triangle of Change" as a teaching device for understanding how to become school advocates in the context of forming parent organizations.

2. "Organizational Development" (of Parent Organizations)
   Parents will learn how to form and maintain parent organizations based upon Data Based Advocacy. Parents will learn:
   • The foundations of Community Outreach: Who are you, and who is the Community?
   • How to Make People Pay Attention (How do people become engaged in schools?)
   • The Roles People Must Play in Organization
   • Generating Support (from other parents and professionals)

3. "Effective Models for Parent Engagement: The Development of the Parent Child Learning Center Network in Newark, NJ"
   This is a case study of the development of a network of local churches to become centers for free after school tutorials for children of all ages, and centers for Forums and Extravaganzas for parent education in advocacy skills and developing partnerships with education professionals in the education of their children (e.g., "How to conduct the Parent Teacher Interview"; "How to Help Your Child with Her Homework"). If you have churches in your neighborhood, you can learn how to do this as well!

4. "Conflict Resolution: The Art and Science of Negotiation"
   At some point, parents and education professionals (teachers and administrators) may disagree. Attitudes may result. Parents will be taught how to turn a stalemate into a win-win situation for all parties, especially the children!