Carbondale New School is a tuition-supported, parent-owned and operated, not-for-profit corporation. As such, parents actively participate in all aspects of the school, from the development of school policies to making strategic decisions about the school's priorities. Each family is required to fulfill 40 hours of service for the school each school year.
A unique aspect of Carbondale New School is how much parents are expected to be involved in their children's education. There is a Team created for each student consisting of the student, the parents of that student, and the teacher of that student. For this to be an effective group, each member must recognize that each is responsible for the education of the student. Teachers not only teach the student (by figuring out the best way to educate the student), but when needed, can support the parent with strategies to help their student succeed, not just in school, but in life. Parents can support the child and the teacher by reinforcing class lessons and classroom/school rules. Parents may also help their student by making sure there is sufficient time spent on homework assignments and in helping their child reach their specific learning objectives and goals. Parents should be present for student-led, parent-teacher conferences. Students are responsible for preparing themselves to learn, completing assignments, and learning. Other ways parents might support teachers and students as part of this Team is to contribute in the following ways:
It is also important that parents contribute to the whole school community, because without the work of corporation members (parents), the school cannot function smoothly. Parents might do this in these ways:
Download a volunteer hours log here.
