Monday, October 26, 2009

Universities urge parental activity | clarionledger.com | The Clarion-Ledger


Universities urge parental activity clarionledger.com The Clarion-Ledger:

"Maureen Edwards is getting a little help with the transition from high school to college, but she's not a student."

Edwards' daughter, Arielle, is the one who started college at the University of Southern Mississippi this fall.

"We've always been involved," Edwards said of her daughter's high school years. "I think it's really important to continue that."

While some may question parental involvement beyond high school, USM is one of several universities now hoping to aid parents like Edwards with the transition, and hopefully gain something from their eagerness: improved student success rates.

"We are putting a lot of emphasis on creating a climate of academic success," USM President Martha Saunders said. "Working with parents is very helpful and a very important part of the process."

The university recently held a "Parents University" workshop, providing information on subjects ranging from midsemester check-ups to campus resources.