20 - 30 – 50 or Why We Need You!
According to a recent study conducted by the Saskatchewan Ministry of Education (2009 Provincial Panel on Student Achievement) schools can only influence about 20% of student achievement. The remainder of the influence lies outside of school with family and community. This is why, we at the school, need you the family, to support your child’s learning.
According to the study, 50% of achievement is attributed to attitude. Factors that influence this are the child’s cognitive ability, temperament, attention span, interests, and expectations the student has for him or herself. It is difficult for a child to listen to your message if when he sees what you practice there is a contradiction. Make sure these messages and actions align in positive ways.
The next 30% of achievement is linked to community and family support. Factors that influence this aspect of achievement include the socioeconomic status of the child including the family’s income, parent’s occupation, and parental education levels. Poverty has a highly negative effect on learning and may contribute to health problems, hunger, transience, and absenteeism. Quality of parenting, especially in the early years develops a child’s ability to learn. Children of all ages can be negatively affected by neglect or abuse. Having significant relationships with competent, attentive adults such as parents, extended family, coaches, and teachers support children. Access to early childhood intervention programs, access to recreation programs, summer learning programs, adequate housing, safe and secure neighborhoods, and expectations from family and neighbours, all contribute to a child’s achievement.
The next 20% of a child’s achievement is influenced by effective school practices such as schools having shared leadership, shared vision and goals, a concentration on teaching and learning, use of positive reinforcement, and the monitoring of student progress. Environments where students have both rights and responsibilities, and where students feel safe and orderly assist with maximizing achievement. Purposeful teaching, home and school partnerships, adequate learning time, and high expectations for all students also help student achievement.
If your child is achieving, it is probable that “we” are doing something right. If not, “we” need to look at ways to maximize that achievement. Thank you to all parents for the support you provide in your child’s education!