Keeping a balloon in the air may seem simple, but keeping dozens afloat requires a team. That message came to life Tuesday at the Jackson Professional Learning Center as parent liaisons from across Killeen ISD gathered for a Parents as Partners workshop focused on strengthening family school partnerships and student success.
During the activity, participants wrote hopes and aspirations for their children on balloons, then worked together to keep them from touching the ground. The exercise served as a reminder that student success is upheld by many hands. And for Parenting Specialist for Federal and State Programs, Andrea Dykes, that kind of shared support is central. "There’s not one expert in the room," Dykes said. "Yes, you are coming and getting something, but we’re also learning from each other."
This year, the district is expanding that philosophy by bringing back parents who completed the program. Not just as participants, but as co-facilitators. "We've gone from parent as a participant, now we're growing parents into leaders, and that's gonna take us to the next level," Dykes said.
Tumau Samuelu, a parent who took part last year, said she joined to learn new skills and found resources that were helpful. "In my experience, do go. It's been really helpful with the resources provided through the course," she said.
The sessions are designed to be interactive, creating space for hands-on learning and meaningful conversations among parents. Sometimes the best insights come from another parent in the room.
"In some cases, you're teaching us," Dykes said. As the program enters its second year, the district hopes to expand participation and help more families complete the experience. Because when families and schools work together, everyone has a hand in keeping students lifted toward their goals. Parents and guardians interested in participating are encouraged to contact their campus parent liaison for details on upcoming sessions.
Learn more at: www.killeenisd.org/pfce
view more photos: https://flic.kr/s/aHBqjD4ouU