The purpose of G.R.O.W. (Getting Resources and Opportunities for the Whole Family) Visits (or home visits) is to use research-based strategies to facilitate successful home visits and home & school partnerships.
Family Engagement Specialist’s Responsibility
- Contact the parent/guardian in advance to schedule the home visit and make every effort to keep appointments. The duration of the G.R.O.W. Visit will be determined by the level of service that is required
- Develop and monitor the individual Family G.R.O.W. Assessment Form and/or Family G.R.O.W. Plan
- Collaborate with administrators, Title I Interventionists, school faculty & staff, parents/guardians, and community partners to ensure that home visits and solutions reflect student’s and/or family’s needs
- Facilitate referral process to outside resources and follow-up as needed.
Parent's /Guardian's Responsibility
- Be at home (or agreed upon location for the scheduled G.R.O.W. Visit/Meeting
- Participate in planning for G.R.O.W. Visit/Meeting
- Provide input and insight into the development of the Family G.R.O.W. Assessment Form and/or Family G.R.O.W. Plan
- Provide an atmosphere that will contribute to a good G.R.O.W. Visit, which may include turning off the T.V. or radio and/or refraining from cellphone usage during the visit
Below you will find quick tips in case you would like to make a Home Visit...
- Go in pairs - Find a partner in your building
- Listening: Build the relationship first, then focus on the academics and capacity building
- Parents as co-educators
- Ask parents, "what are your hopes & dreams for your child?"
- Convey to parents/guardians that the school wants their child to be successful
- Parents are the experts on their child
- Find something to compliment their child on
- Say something positive to spark an engaging conversation
- What are their child's interest
- Give parents/guardians personal invitations to school events and workshops
- Invite them to volunteer
- Ask parents what are their expectations for you? For the school?
- Encourage parents to be advocates for their child