Two District Natural Leaders Trainings Completed

WHEN: Two sessions, January 20th, 2008 and January 20th, 2009

We are into our second year of creating new Natural Leader programs and strengthening those already in place.

What are Natural Leaders?

Natural Leaders are multi-cultural families at schools that are identified as warm, caring, social individuals to serve as a bridge between families/community and schools. These families help isolated families connect to schools and therefore, increase family engagement in their children’s education.

They are leaders in their community that work as a team with family advocates, family support centers, and school staff to:

1. Build relationsips with families
2. Listen to families ideas on how to help their children be successful in school
3. Bring families and schools together to plan/implement the families ideas

Why are Natural Leaders Needed?

Research shows that academic success is related to the quality of instruction/ learning environment, but an equally large part of the success is due to family engagement in their children’s education.

Many schools have difficulty building relationships with families that are people of color, English language learners, immigrants, and/or refugees.

Natural Leaders are able to speak their language, understand their culture and past experiences, and provide warm, welcoming arms to their school communities.

Please watch this site for more info on training, program development and networking.

If you are interested in knowing more about becoming a Natural Leader at your school, contact Becky Tilbury,
425-431-7350, tilburyb@edmonds.wednet.edu