Smithtown Parent U Strengthens Home-School Partnership

The Smithtown Central School District recently hosted an evening Parent University, held at Smithtown High School West, titled “Advocating for Successful Children.”

The workshops were designed to equip parents with useful tools and information to help them raise a happy, whole and productive child. Parents of students enrolled in all of the Smithtown CSD schools were invited and encouraged to attend.

The evening began with an introduction by Smithtown Superintendent of Schools Dr. James Grossane and Assistant Superintendent for Instruction Jennifer Bradshaw, the coordinator of the event. Volunteer teachers, administrators, parents, community groups and even students led the workshops. Students also volunteered as guides to ensure parents unfamiliar with HSW made it to their respective classrooms on time.

Workshops tackled subjects such as the positives and pitfalls of social media, active listening, homework help, stress/anger management, how to help children think more like entrepreneurs, healthy eating, helping children with different special needs, finding the right college for your child and many more.

“This year’s Parent University was a tribute to the power of our parent-school partnership,” Bradshaw said. “The PTA, SEPTA, teachers, administrators and community organizations all got together to offer parents the best of current research and practices for raising healthy, productive, resilient children. Parent evaluation comments ranged from ‘I learned so much!’ to ‘I wanted to attend so many workshops!’ The PTA and the district are already planning to offer repeat workshops to meet the enthusiastic demand for more.”

Photo by Smithtown Schools: (L-R) Smithtown CSD Coordinator for Physical Education, Health, Athletics and Nurses Patrick Smith and Dogwood Elementary School Principal Renee Carpenter led a workshop titled “Social Apps: Pitfalls and Positive Uses” with help from students Greg Giordano and Michael Buttitta. HSE guidance counselor Kelly Brothers (not pictured) also helped run the workshop.