The Power of Presence: Why Parental Involvement Matters in School Success
In the heart of Tasiujaq, Vice-Principal Janice Cain of Ajagutak School is a steadfast advocate for student success. Her message is clear: parental involvement is not just beneficial—it’s essential.
Janice Cain has served as Vice-Principal since 2019, stepping into additional leadership roles when needed. Being fluent in Inuktitut, she shares a deep connection with the students, which helps her mediate conflicts and foster understanding. “It’s easier for our students to talk in Inuktitut, our language,” she explains. “They’re able to express themselves better and explain what really happened.”
We can’t do it alone. We need the parents’ support. We need the community’s support
But while communication with students has flourished, engaging parents remains a challenge. “The hardest part is getting parents to come to the school,” Cain admits. To address the issue, the school introduced a creative solution: student-made invitations. “Some parents came and told us their child was so excited for them to come,” Cain shares. “They kept asking, ‘Is it 6 p.m. yet?’”
These moments of connection—where students proudly showcase their work and parents witness their growth—are powerful. They reinforce the idea that education is a shared journey. “We need more parents in our school,” Cain emphasizes.
Cain’s words are a reminder that schools thrive when families and educators work together. Parental involvement isn’t just about attending events—it’s about showing up, listening, and being part of a child’s educational story.