Engaging the Community in Valparaiso Community Schools

Written by Gina Wagenblast, Parent Coordinator

Have you ever wondered how Valparaiso Community School System really works? You may be guilty of thinking "they" (the central office administration, school board or teachers) don't want parents or the public to really know what is going on. valpo-community-schools

You would be incorrect. Valparaiso Community Schools is working tirelessly to demonstrate the school board and administrative team is committed to increasing parental/community involvement and awareness. A definite goal is to develop better parent-school-community partnerships that help kids thrive, achieve and be successful.

So after the holiday break, the Valparaiso Community Schools will offer Viking University. This is an opportunity to learn how the school system really works, and more. We will meet once a month, five times this school year, from January until May to learn about how our school system works. There will be no homework, just engaging, interesting and important information that will help parents and the community better understand the inner workings of Valparaiso Community Schools.

"Students" will learn about the budget; how different funds work; why we teach what we teach; how standardized tests help us determine curriculum; how the busing, food and maintenance programs operate; the technology we use; and the power of experiential education.

Many parents have been invited by an administrator to attend these sessions; however, all are welcome to attend. The sessions are as follows:

  • 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. Jan. 12 in the Thomas Jefferson Middle School auditorium. This is an introduction to class. The duties of the school board and central office administration will be discussed. "Students" will get to hear some history of our school district.
  • 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. Feb. 9 in the Ben Franklin Middle School Auditorium. This session will be dedicated to finances, budget and funding.
  • 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. March 10 in the Thomas Jefferson Middle School Auditorium. The meeting will focus on academics, curriculum and technology.
  • 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. April 13 in the Ben Franklin Middle School Auditorium. This session will be about busing, maintenance/custodial and the food program.
  • 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. May 11 in the Thomas Jefferson Middle School Auditorium. The power of experiential education, a question and answer session, and graduation will be presented.

Those who received invitations from administrators in the district might see a date change and location changes. Please note this is the final draft of the Viking University schedule and the aforementioned dates, times and locations are secure.

This is an incredible opportunity to learn all you can about your school system and get involved. Support from parents and the community is an important way to help students succeed. Consider joining us for Viking University. If you have questions, contact Gina Wagenblast, parent coordinator, at gwagenblast@mail.valpo.k12.in.us.