Families can begin encouraging the education of their children by showing that they truly value education and respect the staff at their student's school.

Some of the ways that parents, caregivers and grandparents can become involved are:

• Helping your child with homework, especially reading together
• Joining committees that help decide school issues (LSDMC, ILT, PTO)
• Giving time to the school, classroom or library
• Enrolling in an adult educational class through the Community Learning Center
• Monitor your child's grades on a regular basis and help him or her to set and meet goals to improve
• Visit the local library and enrich your child by expanding their knowledge in their current studies with family field trips

More info on parent involvement from the district's website.

Children do better in school if both students and their parents are involved in the child's education. For example, students have:

• Higher grades and test scores
• Long-term academic achievement
• Positive attitudes and behavior

Local School Decision Making Committee (LSDMC)

The LSDMC is the primary governing body for each school in the district. This committee gives insight and input into important decisions that greatly impact students' lives and shape their educational experiences.

The functions of the LSDMCs include:

• Adopting bylaws, including the school's mission and vision
• Setting measurable goals, based on a needs assessment
• Developing a broad plan (One Plan) to implement these goals
• Completing a mid-year and end-of-year progress report
• Making recommendations and approving the school budget
• Participating in the selection of the principal (when a vacancy exists)
• Approving locally initiated changes in the school's program or focus
• Making recommendations to the principal regarding other school issues
• Seeking grants to support the school's programs (optional)
• Coordinating and overseeing the development of the school as a Community Learning Center

The committee is composed of parents, teachers, staff members, students and community members. The LSDMC meets 9 times each year.

Instructional Leadership Team (ILT)

The ILT is the instructional focus and makes the instructional decisions for the school. ILT responsibilities include:

• Developing, reviewing and evaluating the instructional program
• Monitoring and improving school operations and procedures that affect instruction
• Planning and monitoring training of staff
• Creating and maintaining a safe and orderly school environment

The team is composed of the principal, two parent representatives, two non-teaching staff members, and teachers. ILT meets twice a month and as needed.

To assure the safety of students and staff, Cincinnati Public Schools requires security badges for anyone entering CPS' buildings. One-time visitors receive a temporary security badge from the front office. Individuals who visit our buildings on a regular basis, such as volunteers, must obtain a security badge and wear it at all times in our buildings.

Learn more about how to obtain a security badge.