THE TEACHING OF THE CHURCH ON THE ROLE OF PARENTS IN CATHOLIC EDUCATION
The education of the child means a "drawing out" of the wonderful human potential that exists within each child, not just a potential to know, but also a potential to feel and love, to create art and music, to choose between right and wrong.
An essential part of this process is that pupils be able to observe models of adult living in the life-style of the educating community. Before all others, parents are bound to form their children by word and example, in faith and Christian living.
There must be the closest co-operation between parents and the teachers to whom they entrust their children to be educated. In fulfilling their task, teachers are to collaborate closely with the parents and willingly listen to them; associations are to be set up and held in high esteem.
Everyone involved in the school is part of the school community.
Parents are the central figures, since they are the natural and irreplaceable agents in the education of their children.
Achieving the educational aims of the school should be an equal priority for teachers, pupils and families alike, each on according to his or her own role, always in the Gospel spirit of freedom and love. Therefore, channels of communication should be open among all those concerned with the school. Frequent meetings will make this possible, and a willingness to discuss problems candidly will enrich this communication.
Parents are the first teachers of their children, and the primary responsibility remains with the parents. Many of the most important aspects of education can come only from the family. Experience has shown that a child's performance is significantly higher, when parents are seen to be interested and involved.
Parents are also often under great pressure in these times to change and economic struggle. They need all the help they can get in their role as parents. The school community can do much to help parents, since they are trained professionals; therefore, good communication is worth fostering, for the good of parent, pupil and teacher.