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Hilltonia Middle School’s Family Engagement Team Featured in National Publication
October 28, 2022 -- The National Network of Partnership Schools at Johns Hopkins University released the latest edition of their annual Promising Partnership Practices report. Hilltonia Middle School staff members were excited to see one of their events featured on the pages.
The publication highlights school partnership events from across the country. Hilltonia’s Family Appreciation Night, their first event at the school since COVID-19 building closures, was chosen to be included.
“We spent months working on the event. It feels great to be nationally acknowledged for all of the hard work we put into it,” said Hilltonia family ambassador Ronnette Porch.
At Family Appreciation Night, Hilltonia staff provided food and hygiene products for families free of charge. In addition, they offered dinner and gave attendees certificates of appreciation. The event was an opportunity for families to engage with educators in a fun environment.
“It was amazing how many people came to the event,” Hilltonia Principal Dr. Joyce Albright said. “Everyone was laughing, talking, and taking pictures. Everyone felt very comfortable and at home.”
The Hilltonia team saw that their events often focused on students and wanted to use this gathering to show their appreciation to parents and families.
“The family engagement team has really made our parents feel welcome,” Dr. Albright said. “We want to let them know that their voice is important, and it counts. We want to hear what they have to say.”
Events like this can help educators connect with families. Dr. Albright hopes the national recognition of Hilltonia’s event will help them with their outreach efforts.
“We hope that our other parents that weren’t there that night will see that we’re doing something special here,” Dr. Albright said. “It’s great to have the recognition. We’re hoping the parents will see the great things we’re doing here and want to come be involved with Hilltonia.”