In theory, my child has two parents who share the responsibility for their education. However, the reality often reveals that I, as the mother, am the primary figure in this role. This year, that narrative is changing. I am determined to remind my child’s school that her father exists and is just as capable of volunteering, receiving communications, and participating in parent-teacher associations.
As the new school year approaches, I started receiving welcome emails and introductions from teachers. This time, I decided to take action. My message was clear and concise:
Dear Principal Green,
We are excited about the upcoming school year. Please ensure that [my child’s father] is included in all communications moving forward as it’s important for our family to stay informed together.
With that click of “send,” I felt a surge of empowerment. This year, there would be no special treatment for my partner when he stepped into the school. My small act of advocacy served as a reminder that I am not the only one responsible for our family’s educational journey.
The assumption that I alone am accountable for my child’s educational success is frustrating and reinforces outdated gender roles. When I attend school events, my partner often becomes invisible, overshadowed by the excitement that surrounds my presence. Yet, when he does manage to speak up, suddenly his contributions are met with overwhelming praise, making me acutely aware of the gender dynamics at play. Dads seem to garner admiration for simply being there, while mothers face an entirely different set of expectations.
Today’s fathers are increasingly involved in various ways, from stay-at-home dads to those who engage in school activities or even write parenting blogs. As someone who was raised by an involved father, I understand the importance of active parenting. It is essential for fathers to receive the same recognition and support that mothers traditionally receive.
This is why I sent that email. I want my daughter’s school to consider both parents equally, just as they would for fathers. Imagine a school year where I could arrive without any expectations, feeling confident and free from pressure. However, that is not the reality we live in; instead, we must elevate the expectations for both parents. My partner should also receive communications and be acknowledged as an engaged parent. When asked to volunteer, I will share his email, and when the principal looks to me to lead a meeting, I will redirect the attention back to him.
In this spirit of change, I was pleased to see another father take the initiative, announcing a meeting as we left the building. His involvement was a welcome reminder that fathers stepping up can make a difference.
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In summary, it’s crucial for schools to recognize the involvement of both parents equally. By doing so, we can create a more inclusive educational environment that values the contributions of fathers just as much as those of mothers.
Keyphrase: Schools must recognize fathers
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