The management of parent involvement in multicultural schools in the Umlazi district

Abstract

The aim of this study was to examine the management of parent involvement in multicultural schools in the Umlazi District, Kwa-Zulu Natal. A literature study investigated existing programmes and models of parent involvement, multicultural education in South Africa, legislation pertaining to parent involvement in South Africa and the advantages of and barriers to parent involvement. In addition, the role of school management in managing parent involvement was reviewed. A qualitative investigation of parent involvement in three secondary multicultural schools in Umlazi was conducted. The opinions and experiences of thirty three participants were obtained via focus group interviews. Major findings included: all parents, irrespective of race or culture have an interest in their child's education All parents require guidance and support in parenting skills and also school managers lack understanding with regard to their role in managing parent involvement. The study concludes with recommendations to improve the management of parent involvement in multicultural schools.