District 206 Parents Learn to help their teen @ Parent University

Parents from Bloom Township High School District 206 spent a recent Saturday helping to achieve their student’s success. Dr. Lenell Navarre, Superintendent of district 206 began Parent University as a way for parents to work with their students in a variety of topics.

“I designed the program in an effort to get more parental support for Bloom Township District 206 as well as to meet the needs of the parents” explains Dr. Navarre. “Parents were asking questions on social media as well as other topics associated with their teens. I thought it was the district’s responsibility to have breakout sessions to educate the parents.”

Sessions this year included topics important to teen students today. Felicia Houston, the community development liaison from UChicago Medicine and Ingalls Memorial spoke on suicide prevention. Coach Keisha spoke on tips to cultivate a growth mindset at home while Grace McGinnis taught parents on financial aid for college.

One speaker that has attended every year has been Dr. Oliver Taffe from Matteson. He has been teaching District 206 parents on helping their student to excel in college and career. Dr. Taffe previously worked with District 227 and does a lot of one on one counseling with parents.

“Today we had a good crowd” Dr. Taffe said. “I would like to have a mass of volume of more parents. Each year gets better. They already know how to be good parents. I try and help them with challenges with their students using everyday stories.”

As Dr. Taffe passed out information sheets for the parents, he would like for parents to be prepared for next year’s Parent University.

“Next year I would like to have information from the parents beforehand so I can build a workshop dealing with their concerns. I want to answer more of their questions. When I leave here they always have more questions.”

For the past five years, Bloom Township District holds Parent University in September. There is no cost for the day and features a continental breakfast but also lunch as well with prizes that are given away. Dr. Navarre is dedicated not only to his students but for the parents to learn how to walk along with their teen for success.

For Maria Lo Cascio of Steger, she has attended four years of Bloom District 206 Parent University. “I’m always want to learn and do the best to help my child” Lo Cascio said. “My favorite classes have been about how to get scholarships and financial aid so that my child will be able to go to college.” Her son who is a senior is planning to attend Prairie State College where the Parent University was held. She encourages other parents to attend next year.

“I would tell the parents, get involved in your child’s education” Lo Cascio added. “There are a lot of parents who don’t participate in the events. The Parent University is a good chance to get involved and see the success of your child.”

After the classes, Bloom Township District 206 Show Choir performed. Dr. Navarre encouraged parents to return next year if they have a teen in the district. “We’re on this journey with you” added Dr. Navarre.