More than 200 parents attended the first Family Feedback Circle of the year at River Bend Middle School. The event was organized in collaboration with Loudoun County Public Schools’ English Learner Family and Community Engagement (EL FACE) team and the Division of Equity, Inclusion and Access (DEIA). The initiative aims to build stronger connections between families and the school.
Dr. Valerie DiCarlo, Assistant Principal, said, “Over the past six years, River Bend has experienced tremendous change, welcoming students from many cultures, languages and traditions. This diversity is a gift and it guides us to grow together with intention. Family Feedback Circles give us a chance to listen first and to understand what matters most to our families, what values they hold and how we can better support their children. Our goal is for every family to feel valued, seen and heard at River Bend.”
Research indicates that strong family-school partnerships can lead to better student achievement, improved attendance, and increased confidence among students. According to findings from organizations such as the National Association for Family, School and Community Engagement (NAFSCE) and the Learning Policy Institute, culturally responsive engagement also helps reduce discipline disparities in schools while fostering equitable learning environments.
The school’s event brought together parents from various backgrounds in order to gather direct feedback about their priorities. The information collected during this session will be used by River Bend Middle School to inform future programs, communication strategies, and support services.
River Bend Middle School plans to continue hosting additional Family Feedback Circles throughout the year as part of its ongoing efforts to strengthen community ties and ensure all families feel welcome.
