Networking Isn't Just For Work Parents' Social Involvement Matters To Their Child's Education

THE START OF THE NEW SCHOOL YEAR IS UPON us. How are you going to make sure that your kids get into the best classes?

- Robin White Goode

So much has been written about how poverty affects academic achievement, but what’s been explored much less is the critical role that parental social networking plays—in providing information, access, and opportunity—no matter what a student’s socioeconomic status.

Genevievette Walker-Light foot is one parent who understands that networking with other parents is the best way for her to find out what she calls “intel”—the best schools, programs, and other services her child might need.