Understanding the Multiple Influences on Black Parents’ School Involvement: A Longitudinal Perspective

TL;DR

This study shows that Black parents' involvement in their children's education increases when they perceive a positive school climate and have favorable attitudes toward involvement.

Contribution

The study provides longitudinal evidence on factors influencing Black parents’ school involvement using a validated theoretical model.

Findings

Positive school climate perceptions predict increased parent involvement over time.

Favorable attitudes toward involvement are linked to higher levels of parent engagement later on.

Abstract

This study explores longitudinal influences of various factors on Black parents’ involvement in their children’s education. Guided by Hoover-Dempsey & Sandler’s Model of Parent Involvement, this research examines whether parents’ school climate perceptions, attitudes about involvement, self-efficacy, and children’s academic performance predict parent involvement over time. Utilizing data from the Maryland Adolescence in Context Study with a sample of 560 Black parents, we found that positive school climate perceptions and favorable attitudes towards involvement significantly predict increased parent involvement in later years. The results underscore the importance of supportive school environments and parent attitudes in fostering their involvement.