We've done the homework for you. 4 TM stride riteu Collaboration: Formula For Better Education crucial to .the success of their chil- dren. The research is clear on this ques- tion. Parental involvement makes a ach new school year, a fresh positive difference in student achieve- cycle of studies begins. Stu- ment and self-esteem. dents return from the sum- In addition, parent involvement in mer months to sit with a a child's schooling improves the par- new class, a diffLrent teacher and per- ent/child relationship at, home. haps an unfamiliar school. Here are four ways for a parent to If they are making that difficult get involved: transition from elementary school to Exercise your choices. Parents have middle school, or from middle school choices in recommending course to high school, those first days can work, selecting programs and even seem a bit harrowing. choosing schools for their children. What is crucial for students to Become informed on the alternatives know is that they are part of a learn- and take an active role in ing team. It is a team that boasts a pretty powerful line- Parents augment these critical decisions. Visit the campus. A par- up. the teac her. ent's periodic physical pres- Leading off are the stu- ence on campus is important dent's parents. In many because it indicates to the students ways, Mom and Dad are the most and the teachers that this mom or important teachers a child will ever dad cares enough to make an on-site have. inspection of the learning process. Next up are the child's classroom Open lines of communication. Far teachers. Although only 9 percent of more important than reading the a student's time between kindergarten school's newsletter is direct communi- and high school is actually spent in cation with a child's teacher or teach- the classroom, much is - and should ers. Use the phone. Although under- be - expected from these professional utilized, the phone provides an up-to- educators. the-minute "report card" of a child's Finally, batting third, is the stu- daily challenges and successes. dent. Read aloud at home to the chil- Although the responsibility to dren. Research has shown that read- learn is clearly on their shoulders, stu- ing aloud increases both a child's dents are dependent, to a great ability to read and interest in read- extent, on the guidance, teaching skill ing. Also encourage the child to read and nurturing of the first two team to you. El members. The role of parents in education is Copley News Service MARK RYAN Special to The Jewish News E There's a new school of thought that says kids shouldn't have to sacrifice quality, technology, durability and fit for a stylish pair of shoes. Or vice versa. Give them the best. - PA C * A, CCP CA/ On The Boardwalk West Bloomfield, MI (248) 932-5308 stride rite ® Shoes "Children's Shoe Specialist" Orthopedic Prescriptions Filled Mon.-Sat., 10-6 Thursday, 10-8 THIS SUNDAY ONLY 1200-4:00 REGISTER NOW! Cornelia's School of Dance a n d The Rochester School of Dance Ballet, Pointe, Jazz, Tap (child & adult) Creative Movement, Pre ballet, Tap for 3-6 yr. olds • • Professional, certified adult staff Progressive Syllabus that trains students from beginning through advanced levels • Positive, nurturing atmosphere • Day & evening classes Sprung wood floors • Competitive rates • JAZZ & TAP DIVISION BALLET DIVISION RUSSIAN TECHNIQUE MASTER TEACHERS HOME OF THE MICHIGAN BALLET THEATRE AUDITION AUG. 22ND 10-12 PM CUTTING EDGE CHOREOGRAPHY HIP HOP • FUNK • LYRICAL GOLD MEDAL COMPETITION GROUP OUR REPUTATION PRECEDES US! 20 YEARS OF PROVEN SUCCESS Come in and view our roster of success stories and meet our talented faculty JOIN US FOR OUR OPEN HOUSE — AUG. 25 - 29 Cornelia's School of Dance 3080 Orchard Lake Road Keego Harbor 248-681-5376 Call for a FREE BROCHURE Rochester School of Dance 6841 N. Rochester Rd. Rochester Hills 248-652-3117 CORNELIA SAMPSON, DIRECTOR Detroit Jewish News 8/21 1998 121