Newsletter

Welcome to the November Edition of the Family Engagement Network Newsletter!

November is National Family Engagement Month, a time to celebrate the strong partnerships between families, schools, and communities that help students thrive. Research continues to show that when families are engaged, students experience greater academic achievement, improved attendance, and stronger social-emotional well-being.

This month also invites us to reflect on the power of compassion and connection. With the recent reductions in SNAP benefits, many families across our communities are facing increased challenges, especially as we approach the holiday season. It’s in times like these that our collective efforts make the greatest difference. By coming together, sharing resources, and creating safe spaces for families to feel seen and supported, we strengthen the very heart of our educational communities.

Whether it’s volunteering at a local event or helping connect a family to food and community resources, every act of care reinforces the bridge between home and school. Thank you for continuing to lead with empathy, purpose, and partnership. Together, we can ensure that every family in Riverside County feels valued, supported, and connected, not only during Family Engagement Month, but all year long.

In partnership,

Sonia Rezkalah

Administrator, Family Engagement

National Family Engagement Month - Celebrate the vital partnerships between families, schools, and communities that empower student success. Encourage families to reflect on what engagement looks like at home and showcase their stories of connection through photos, quotes, or short videos.

Thanksgiving Season of Gratitude - Use this season of thankfulness to foster compassion and community. Organize a “Gratitude Wall” at your school or district site where students and families can share messages of appreciation. Encourage service projects such as food drives, coat donations, or care packages for families impacted by SNAP benefit reductions. These efforts remind us that when we come together, we help ensure every family feels supported.

National Homeless Youth Awareness Month - Raise awareness about the unique challenges faced by students experiencing homelessness. Collaborate with local agencies and your district’s McKinney-Vento liaison to provide information on resources and supports.

Native American Heritage Month - Honor and celebrate the history, culture, and traditions of Native American and Indigenous communities.

National Parental Involvement Day

Love For Humanity

Homeless Youth Awareness

Native American Heritage Month Activities

Our first Leadership Lab of the year brought together district leaders, family engagement practitioners, and community partners for a morning filled with storytelling, strategy, and inspiration. The session began with “My Roots, My Home,” a meaningful connection activity that encouraged participants to reflect on their personal stories and discover common threads.

We introduced the launch of the Footsteps2Brilliance Financial Literacy App, a new tool designed to help families build financial literacy from home. Attendees also explored CDE’s updated Family Engagement guidance, engaged with best practices shared by Coachella Valley USD, and discussed how family engagement connects to the Four Pillars of the Community Schools model.

We look forward to continuing the conversation at our next FEN meeting on November 19!

Explore professional development offerings that provide invaluable opportunities to sharpen your skills, connect with peers, and access a wealth of insights, strategies, and resources designed to elevate your engagement efforts. Don't miss out on these enriching experiences!

RivCo NOW Food Assistance Resources

The Riverside County Community Schools Partnership is helping connect students and families to support in their communities! Click on the FindHelp.org link below to search for free or low-cost food, basic needs, housing assistance and more.

Click Here to Access Findhelp