2009 FOUNDER'S AWARD
Lincoln Elementary
Practical Parenting Partnerships, in honor of Darlene Robinett, PPP Director from 1992-2007, proudly presents the PPP Founder’s Award to the school or individual who submits the most innovative, successful parent involvement idea. This year’s honoree received not only the award and $50, but the idea will also be submitted to the National Network of Partnership Schools (NNPS), John Hopkins University, for publication.
Our first ever Founder’s Award honoree is Lincoln Elementary. Lincoln Elementary hosted a Family Fair in response to requests from families to assist in helping their students do better in school. Lincoln took a team approach to planning the event, dividing duties among its PPP advisory team. Several meetings were held to assure that everyone was on track. This outstanding teamwork made their event go very smoothly.
The Family Fair included families, child care workers and community members. Break-out sessions covered many “hot topics” for families while community agencies highlighted assistance available through 25 booths and exhibits. A huge variety of free parenting and academic help materials were offered and at the same time, helped to promote the school’s parent library. All ages enjoyed the reading carnival, door prizes and many freebies. Since this was a full day event, free preschool child care was provided by the preschool with student helpers from A+ and FBLA. The event was well supported by the community with an outpouring of interest from local organizations and agencies willing to participate or make donations. The Family Fair had 35 sponsors!
The results of the Family Fair day were incredibly positive. This was the first time an event such as this was attempted in Benton County, but judging by its success, it certainly won’t be the last!
