As teachers, we know the impact parental support has on student success. But what happens when that support is lacking? Whether due to work, personal struggles, or other challenges, some parents simply can’t be as involved as we’d like. The result? A lack of reinforcement at home, behavior issues in the classroom, and missed opportunities for partnership.

The key is to approach this with empathy and understanding. Teachers can use tools like ParentSquare to stay connected, reach out positively before discipline issues escalate, and offer flexible communication times. Encouraging students to advocate for themselves can also bridge the gap when parental involvement is limited. It's not about blaming—it’s about finding creative solutions to support students and their families, building a community that works together for success.