News Details

SUNNYVALE, CA. — Sunnyvale School District continues to strengthen connections between schools and families through its Parent University series, Raising Thriving Learners—a four-part learning experience designed to provide families with practical tools, resources and strategies to support student success at home and in school.

Designed and facilitated by the Lighthouse Educational Consulting Group, the series centers on building access, advancing justice and strengthening families through culturally responsive and interactive workshops.

“When families are empowered, students succeed,” Lighthouse Educational Consulting Group CEO said. “This series is strengthening the connection between home and school in ways that benefit the entire community.”

Since launching in March, workshops have addressed student wellness, restorative discipline practices, attendance, family engagement and supporting learning at home. Sessions have been offered in English and Spanish through both in-person and virtual formats, with interpretation, child care and take-home materials provided to support participation. 

Families shared positive feedback throughout the series, with one parent noting, “The workshop provided me with resources to support my child, stay connected with teachers, and improve school attendance every day.”

During the third workshop, Every Day Counts, families learned about attendance supports and district resources. Director of Student Support Services Paul Slayton joined both sessions to connect families with additional services.

“Parent University has created valuable opportunities for families to feel informed, supported, and connected to their schools,” Director of Student Support Services Paul Slayton said. “By reducing barriers to participation and creating space for authentic conversations, we are strengthening partnerships that directly support student success.”

The district will conclude the series with its fourth and final workshop, Partners in Power, on Friday, May 15, with sessions taking place from 9:30 to 11 a.m. and 3:30 to 5 p.m. at the Sunnyvale School District Office Boardroom, located at 819 W. Iowa Ave. in Sunnyvale. Virtual participation options will also be available. The session will focus on how families support learning at school and at home, while positioning parents and caregivers as essential partners in education. Topics will include navigating school systems, advocating for children, supporting literacy and curiosity at home and building strong school-family relationships.

“Strong partnerships between schools and families are essential to student success,” Superintendent Gudiel R. Crosthwaite, PhD said. “This series has created opportunities for families to connect, learn and engage in ways that directly support their children and strengthen our school community. We are grateful to the families, presenters and staff members who have helped make Parent University such a positive and impactful experience.”

For additional information regarding Parent University, families may contact Paul Slayton, Director of Student Support Services, or Vanessa Escobar, Community Outreach Supervisor. Additional program information can also be found on the Sunnyvale School District's  communications channels.

 

PHOTO CAPTIONS:

PARENTUNIVERSITIES_1: Participants shared personal experiences and reflected on family engagement, student support, and community connection during Sunnyvale School District’s Parent University workshop, Strong Roots, Bright Futures, on March 13.

PARENTUNIVERSITY_2: Families participated in Sunnyvale School District’s Parent University series, Raising Thriving Learners, during the first workshop, Strong Roots, Bright Futures, on March 13. During the session, families introduced themselves and discussed the many roles they play in supporting their children at home and in school.