The project we are currently working toward is the "No Parent Left Behind" conference in August. If you can help, please volunteer to join our Communications Action Team.

After several meetings in the summer of 2003, the Communications Action Team identified two important strands of work and divided into two groups to address them.

The Parent Advocacy and Training group, led by Anne Jenkins and Aleta Bitting, has a goal of increasing the number of trainers available to deliver quality and accessible training to parents about how to help their children in school and advocate for their best interests within the school system. Plans include working with Addie Hymes of the WSFCS and various community groups to train 15-20 individuals to offer training, initially in a "parent involvement fair" and in follow-up trainings in the community that are accessible and comfortable for parents.

Under the leadership of Sheryll Strode and Sandra Mikush, a group of parents, teachers, administrators, business and community members formed a working group to tackle the goal of improving two-way communication between home and school and between the school system and the community. Supported by research into best practices across the country and a survey of parents and business leaders, the group developed 12 recommendations. CAE is working with the WSFCS to prioritize and implement recommendations for changes within the school system. In addition, CAE is taking the lead on three priorities:

• a Spanish-language radio program on school issues,
• a community resource center in collaboration with NAACP Education Committee, and
• community "town hall" meetings with School Board or other opportunities for public input into school issues.