Building strong partnerships between schools and families has always been key to student success. In the podcast episode Building Better Collaboration Between Families and Schools from Cult of Pedagogy with host Jennifer Gonzalez and Nawal Qarooni, author of the book Nourishing Caregiver Collaboration, the conversation dives into how these relationships can be strengthened—and why it matters so much. At Idaho Digital Learning Alliance (IDLA), where much of the interaction happens in a virtual space, this idea comes with its own set of challenges and exciting opportunities. So, how do we better connect with the people on the other side of a screen?
One major takeaway from the podcast is the power of clear and open communication. For IDLA, this means making sure families know how online learning works, what’s expected of their students, and how they can play a supportive role. We hope our offerings of easy-to-use resources, like video tutorials or guides, help families navigate online platforms and feel confident. When families feel informed and included, trust starts to build—and that’s a game-changer.
Another great point from the podcast is the importance of collaboration between families and educators. At IDLA, teachers and support staff seek to nurture these partnerships with something as straightforward as a quick check-in. A phone call or email to discuss a student’s progress can go a long way in building a sense of teamwork. The author also challenges parents and educators to examine personal beliefs on who is part of a student’s learning community. Is there potentially a neighbor, a friend, or a family member that could be an additional, consistent learning support? When families feel like true partners in their child’s education, everyone benefits.
The IDLA Parent App supports this collaboration by providing families with real-time updates on their student’s progress, attendance, and upcoming assignments. This tool helps parents stay informed and engaged, making it easier to communicate effectively with educators and offer timely support to their child. With the Parent App, IDLA extends the partnership beyond the classroom, empowering families to be active contributors to their student’s success.
The podcast also touches on cultural awareness and respect as essential pieces of building strong relationships. At IDLA, we’re proud to serve students from every corner of Idaho, each bringing unique perspectives and experiences. By recognizing and celebrating these differences, we create a stronger, more connected online community. When families feel seen, valued, and respected, they’re more likely to engage and support their student’s success.
At the end of the day, the lessons from Building Better Collaboration Between Families and Schools align perfectly with IDLA’s mission. Prioritizing communication, collaboration, and respect isn’t just a best practice—it’s how we create meaningful connections that help students thrive. Like the podcast says, when schools and families work together, the impact can be truly transformative.”
