| Citation: | Public Education Network. (2000). All for all: Strengthening community involvement for all students. Washington, DC: Public Education Network. |
Annotation:
This article reports public opinion information about the role of public education in our society and local communities, and the publicÕs willingness to participate in school improvement efforts. Results of a nationwide survey indicate that improving the quality of education was the top priority, and there was a strong willingness to become more involved in public schools. Respondents saw good public schools as a resource that benefits the entire community, not just parents and children. They saw four basic functions that schools have in building strong communities: (1) providing children with education to become productive community members; (2) bringing together children from different backgrounds and teaching respect and tolerance; (3) providing a common resource for helping children and families; and (4) attracting local businesses and good jobs. Further, those surveyed believed that the community has a responsibility to help schools improve, and that school improvement efforts that involve more community effort and support are the most effective. Despite the willingness to get involved, results indicate that challenges remain in fully engaging community members to support local public schools. The survey used to collect information is included with the report, and may be useful to others wishing to survey public opinion in their community. Overall, results should be interpreted with some caution, as survey methods and sample size were not reported in sufficient detail for analysis.
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