Parents and Guardians often wonder what level
of involvement is appropriate at the college level. First, while tough, realize that
your student is a young adult and this may affect how much information an office
or instructor can provide you. However, we encourage you to speak with your student
about both of your expectations for communication and involvement.
Whether you are
a parent, guardian, or a student curious about what to expect from your parent(s),
it is important to understand the new role of a parent within the college context.
These role changes generally progress from heavy, direct involvement to less frequent,
more indirect involvement in the educational process.
Parental Differences Between
High School - "Direct Involvement"
Information is generally freely given to parental figures since most students
are under 18, and thus, minors.
Parents and family are frequently involved in parent/teacher meetings, open houses,
and other contacts with instructors. These contacts may be initiated by the instructors
or parents at any time.
Parents generally see students daily and are able to inquire about school events,
schedules, and progress.
Student conduct issues inside and outside the classroom directly involve the
parents or guardians.
Students may work throughout high school for spending money if he or she still
lives with family members. Major financial obligations are generally parental responsibilities.
College -"Indirect Involvement"
FERPA, or the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act, prevents higher education
officials and instructional staff from releasing any information to friends, family,
or others without a written release from the student.
Instructors and parents very rarely interact. As a result of the number of students,
the level of expected self-advocacy, and FERPA, instructors will not initiate parental
contact.
Parental contact may range from several times a semester to multiple times daily.
Average student contact is once or twice a week. Please talk with your student about
both of your expectations for contact via email, letter, visit, or phone.
Students will deal exclusively with conduct issues both in and out of the classroom.
Parents may coach students on how to confront conflict while respecting professional
and personal boundaries.
Academic bills will be sent to students online and be his or her responsibility.
Budgeting and spending issues will be the student responsibility. Parents and students
are advised to talk about spending, earning, and borrowing expectations that may
exist.
Students must motivate themselves to work, attend courses, study, get involved,
and complete coursework.
Opportunities for Getting Information and Assistance
SRJC provides opportunities
to receive assistance at many of the high schools within our District. Among the
services offered, your student might have access to assistance completing Financial
Aid applications, placement testing, CCCApply (Application for Admission) workshops,
or presentations of general SRJC information called "Seniors Presentations". SRJC
also offers College Nights (great for Parents and Guardians) at many schools throughout
the District. Be sure to have your student watch for announcements about activities
scheduled at their school, or check with their school Counseling Office for more
information.
