Parental empowerment as a means to promote Latina/o post-secondary access

Abstract

Title from first page of PDF file (viewed Dec. 19, 2011)

Committee members: Brian Lawler (chair), Elizabeth Garza

Thesis (M.A.)--California State University San Marcos, 2011

Includes bibliographical references (p. 144-146)

Marginal representation in post-secondary education is a critical issue for Latinas/os. Latina/o families often lack knowledge and wherewithal to guide their children in an advantageous academic direction. They are often unaware of the processes of the U.S. academic system, and the resulting apparent lack of participation is misinterpreted as a disinterest in the educational achievement of their children. In order to increase the educational attainment of Latina/o students it is imperative to empower parents with the knowledge that will provide their children access to higher education. This project draws on studies that examined conditions which seem to correlate with increased Latina/o student achievement. Such studies have demonstrated that one of the most influential motivators for students' success is parental involvement. In order to address the challenge of underrepresentation in higher education, this project presents a curriculum developed for Latina/o parents of elementary-aged children. The curriculum offers effective strategies to engage parents in the long-term educational trajectory of their children. It is designed to raise college awareness and empower Latina/o parents with skills and knowledge to navigate the U.S. school system. The goal is to foster higher academic goals for Latina/o students and consequently lead to the attainment of a college degree