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Writer's pictureCandie A. Mitchell-Price

How Parents’ Voices Are Critical to K-12 Education

Updated: Apr 5, 2023


Parents play a critical role in their children's education, and their input is essential in K-12 educational decisions. As parents, we are the primary advocates for our children, and we have unique insights into their strengths, weaknesses, and learning styles. Therefore, our voices must be heard and valued in educational decision-making processes.

There are several reasons why parent voices are essential in K-12 educational decisions:

  • Parents have a deep understanding of their children's needs, abilities, and interests. They spend more time with their children than anyone else and are familiar with their learning styles and preferences. Therefore, parents are best positioned to provide insights into what works best for their children and what doesn't. This knowledge is critical in making informed decisions about curriculum, teaching methods, and other educational policies.


  • Parents are essential partners in the education process. They work closely with teachers, administrators, and other school personnel to support their children's learning. Therefore, parents must be included in the decision-making process to ensure that they are aware of any changes in policies or curriculum and are equipped to support their children effectively.



  • Parent involvement in educational decision-making promotes transparency and accountability. When parents are involved in the decision-making process, they can ask questions, provide feedback, and hold schools and policymakers accountable for their actions. This involvement fosters a culture of transparency, openness, and trust, which is essential for effective education systems.


  • Parent voices are critical in ensuring that education is equitable and inclusive. Parents from diverse backgrounds bring different perspectives and experiences to the table, which can inform policy decisions that benefit all students. When parents are included in the decision-making process, it helps to ensure that the needs of all students, including those from marginalized or underrepresented groups, are considered.


Parent voices are crucial in K-12 educational decisions. Parents provide valuable insights into their children's learning needs, are essential partners in the education process, promote transparency and accountability, and ensure that education is equitable and inclusive. Therefore, schools and policymakers must actively seek out and value parent input in decision-making processes. Only by working together can we create a robust and effective education system that benefits all students.

Click here to learn how NSFA’s Parent Voice program seeks to keep parents at the table.

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