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Citation:

Pena, D. C. (2000). Parent involvement: Influencing factors and implications. The Journal of Educational Research, 94(1), 42-54. EJ615791.

Annotation:
The purpose of the study is to examine how Mexican American parents are or are not involved in their child's school and what factors influence their involvement. This case study, conducted at an elementary school over the course of a school year, highlighted a number of factors that impacted parent involvement in school activities. Cultural beliefs about the role of parents in their child's education, language barriers, parent cliques, parentsÕ education level, attitudes of school staff, and family issues, such as a need for childcare, influenced parents' participation in activities organized by the school staff. The researcher collected data using interviews, document analysis, and personal observations in order to determine the factors that influenced the involvement of Mexican-American parents. Data were also examined to understand how parents and school staff define "parent involvement." This study offers some areas for consideration by school staff wishing to initiate parent involvement strategies to engage Mexican-American families. It also provides anecdotes that effectively highlight some of the barriers to parent involvement.