More Than 100 Graduate From FWISD's Parent University
More than 100 parents received certificates for completing weeks of parenting courses through the Fort Worth ISD Parent University program, now in its fifth year.
In a combined graduation ceremony at J.P. Elder Middle School, Thursday, January 25, 2018, parents with students at Diamond Hill, M.G. Ellis, W.J. Turner and Manuel Jara elementary schools walked the auditorium stage in red caps and gowns to receive certificates presented by Superintendent Kent P. Scribner. Among the graduates recognized were three receiving their GED.
For 13 weeks, parents participated and completed five parenting courses, including Parent Leadership Academy, which includes an earned credit from Tarrant County College, as well as GED and ESL course offerings.
“Years of research show that when parents are involved in school, their students have higher grades, better test scores, higher graduation rates; better attendance; higher reading levels; better self-esteem and decreased use of drugs and alcohol,” said Manuel Jara Elementary Principal Marta Plata. “If we empower the parents, we empower the students and change lives.”
Loved ones cheered them on as their names were announced and some young children captured the moment with photos and videos. Other little ones greeted their parents with hugs, flower bouquets and balloons as they made their way back to their seats.
Dr. Scribner gave the commencement address and also presented graduate Mayra Acosta with the Amador Molina Scholarship. The $500 scholarship is named for former Manuel Jara Elementary custodian, Amador Molina, who could not read or write but had a love for education and encouraged his four daughters to pursue education. Mr. Molina’s daughters have sponsored the scholarship for three years.
Other invited dignitaries offered congratulatory remarks and well wishes to the graduates.
Goya Foods provided gift bags and backpacks for the graduates and assisted with the graduation reception.
View photos from the Spring 2018 Parent University graduation here.
-FWISD-
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