For the second year, ASCD is participating in a partnership with Chrysler Corporation and the American Federation of Teachers (AFT) to promote parent involvement in education.
The major goal of the "Chrysler Learning Connection" is to "assist teachers by encouraging parents to take a more active role in their children's education," says Valerie Becker, national education program administrator for Chrysler. "We feel that teachers can't do the job alone." The program specifically encourages reading and provides information on how parents can help their children to enjoy reading and become better readers. As part of the program, a videotape aimed at children aged 9–14 will be mailed to every elementary school in the United States, as well as to colleges with teacher education programs, says Becker. Educators will be free to make multiple copies of the video for home use by parents and others. In addition to the video, a kit mailed to schools will include a poster, some materials for teachers, and a letter to parents.
Another part of the program will award grants of $1,000 to 50 teachers who propose innovative ways to involve parents in helping students. ASCD and AFT will spread the word regarding the grant program later this year and help select the winning proposals.