In education, one key factor that drives student success is the relationship between students, educators, and parents. Dr. Tameka Allen, the Dean of Students in the Senior Academy at Drew Charter School, has spent over 13 years in education, five of which were spent teaching Spanish at Drew.
In a recent interview, Dr. Allen shared valuable insights on the importance of parent involvement in the academic journey and how strong relationships with educators can lead to greater student success.
Dr. Allen’s Educational Journey
Dr. Tameka Allen’s career in education has been defined by a passion for helping students thrive. With a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Foreign Language Education/Spanish from the University of South Florida and a Doctorate in Curriculum and Instruction from Liberty University.
Dr. Allen has dedicated her professional life to understanding what helps students succeed. Her dissertation, titled “The Factors that Contribute to the Success of High School Students Who Study a Foreign Language Beyond Graduation Requirements: A Multiple Case Study,” sheds light on the critical factors that contribute to students’ academic success.
Through her research, Dr. Allen found that one of the most significant contributors to student achievement is the relationship students build with their educators. She discovered that when students feel connected to their teachers, they are more likely to excel beyond the basic requirements.
This relationship doesn’t just happen in the classroom, it extends to how parents engage with the school and their child’s educational experience.
Parent Involvement Makes a Difference
Dr. Allen emphasizes that strong relationships between parents and educators create a supportive environment where students can excel. When parents are actively involved in their child’s education, it not only helps the student succeed but also builds a bridge between the school and the home. This partnership can inspire students to put forth their best effort, knowing they are supported both at school and at home.
In the interview, Dr. Allen highlighted the importance of parent-teacher communication, stressing that when parents are informed about what’s happening in the classroom, they can better support their child’s learning.
This can take the form of attending parent-teacher meetings, participating in school events, or simply checking in on their child’s progress and needs. When parents and teachers work together, they create an environment that fosters growth, accountability, and a sense of community.
Building Relationships That Encourage Success
One of the most powerful messages Dr. Allen shares is that students thrive when they feel connected to their teachers and their community. In her experience, students who have positive relationships with educators are more likely to go above and beyond the expectations set for them. This sense of encouragement and care helps students develop a love for learning and motivates them to push through challenges.
This philosophy is evident in Dr. Allen’s role as a leader at Drew Charter School, where she works to support students not only academically but also socially and emotionally. As a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., and a professional development speaker for World Language teachers, Dr. Allen continues to shape the educational landscape by advocating for the power of relationships in schools.
The Role of Parents in Creating a Thriving Learning Environment
Dr. Allen’s interview emphasizes that parents are an essential part of the educational process. They can play an active role by fostering a positive relationship with their child’s educators, creating a culture of open communication, and providing emotional support at home. When parents and educators collaborate, they create a thriving learning environment where students are motivated to achieve their best.
Dr. Allen’s journey shows us that when students feel connected, supported, and encouraged, they are more likely to succeed not only in school but also in life. Her insights remind us that education is a partnership, and when parents, teachers, and students work together, there are no limits to what can be achieved.
Watch the full interview with Dr. Tameka Allen here: The Importance of Parent Interview with Dr. Tameka Allen
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