I'm a high school educator. I wish parents stayed active through school events.

• As a high school educator, I saw that parents of younger kids are more involved in school.
• Knowing parents personally makes it easier for me to share more about their kids with them.
• It shows kids that they should care about the community around them.

When I was a high school educator, I got a surprising phone call from a parent one morning. They asked, "How can I volunteer and help the school?" I was speechless — I'd never heard someone ask to volunteer at the high school level before. It's more common for the parents of younger children to volunteer, but secondary educators appreciate help just as much. When I'm friendly with students' parents, it's easier for me to reach and support the kids.