THUNDER BAY – Ontario is making it easier for more parents to take part in their children’s learning and well-being inside and outside the classroom, with funding for thousands of local projects across the province.
“Parents take on many roles – whether it’s helping with math homework, encouraging kids to pick up a book and read, or worrying about online safety. The Parents Reaching Out Grants are supporting projects across the province that assist parents tackle these everyday challenges and get more involved in their child’s learning,” says Mitzie Hunter, Minister of Education.
Applications are now open for Parents Reaching Out Grants for the 2017-18 school year, and will be accepted until May 25, 2017. Grants are available to school councils, Parent Involvement Committees, and not-for-profit organizations working with parents.
Examples of past projects include:
- Family math nights for parents and kids to work together and learn more about the math curriculum
- School information and newsletters translated into multiple languages so that more parents can stay informed about school and community activities
- Workshops for parents to learn more about cyber-bullying awareness and prevention.
This school year, more than 2,200 projects across all 72 school boards are helping parents find local solutions and hands-on opportunities to support their children’s achievement and well-being.
Helping parents take an active role in their children’s education is part of the government’s plan to create jobs, grow our economy and help people in their everyday lives.
QUICK FACTS
- Since 2006, the government has awarded more than 19,500 Parents Reaching Out grants to school councils and 799 regional/provincial grants – a total investment of nearly $31 million to help increase parent involvement in publicly funded education.
- Studies show that when parents are engaged in their children’s education, students are more likely to earn higher grades, have better behavior and social skills, and continue their education at a higher level.
