Padres Unidos is a program that empowers parents by providing detailed information about their children’s academic progress, including grades, attendance, and programs—all delivered in Spanish. It keeps parents updated on educational activities, homework, and important dates, fostering unity and involvement in their students’ lives.
Blanca Diaz, who created the Spanish-speaking parent group, aimed to establish a program that is inclusive and culturally aware. She remains a motivating community liaison, encouraging parents to participate in their children’s education.
Meetings are held monthly in the school cafeteria at 7 p.m. On Wednesday, May 14, the final meeting of the school year celebrated parents and students with certificates, cultural dances, and food.
“Our Program motto is to ‘lead by example.’ That’s why I always encourage parents to attend and take online classes… That’s why I give them their certificates at the end of the year,” said Diaz.
Diaz emphasized that while a certificate is just a piece of paper, it carries a meaningful message. It demonstrates to both parents and students that achieving goals is possible, encouraging students to pursue their own achievements.
When asked why there is only one meeting per month, Diaz explained that some parents have more than one job and multiple responsibilities, making it difficult to attend twice a month. It takes into consideration that the school also has more activities to attend.
“I prefer quality over quantity,” said Diaz.
Most material presented or announced during the meetings is published online on Padlet. Other online resources that are used are Canvas, Aeries, and ParentSquare.
“I try to keep everything up to date and all the information there. It’s like a community resource,” said Diaz.
At the final meeting, parent Sarahi Cid shared her experience with Padres Unidos, praising its role in her engagement with the school. She highlighted the program’s value in dispelling misconceptions about Hispanic parental involvement.
“When I enrolled my son, they told me about all the programs that they offer here at the school, and Padres Unidos was one of them,” said Sarahi Cid.
Cid expressed her appreciation for Padres Unidos, highlighting her desire to engage with the school and its culture. She noted that thanks to Padres Unidos, she is now a well-informed parent and emphasized that it is an invaluable resource. She also comments on the misconceptions that Hispanic parents aren’t involved in the school and their children’s school life.
“I see that that’s not true. The more people you see, the more motivated you are,” said Cid.
When asked if she would recommend Padres Unidos to other parents, Cid said, “I definitely would. It’s perfect for anyone wanting to spend more time with their student and show interest in their future. It’s a great way to demonstrate your presence.”
