Parent University in alternative schools: Asset–based programming for parents of formerly–incarcerated youth

Abstract

Familial engagement is a cornerstone in comprehensive alternative education; however, implementing high-quality parental outreach is difficult. Traditional approaches to parent outreach view diverse families from a deficit perspective and seek to change their behaviors, instead of building on their funds of knowledge. This article presents a case study about Parent University, a program designed with an additive lens to inform parents of formerly incarcerated youth about the college-going process. Findings showcase the framework of the program and analyze the experiences of participants. Approaching families through an additive perspective is key in developing mutually beneficial relationships amongst stakeholders. This study demonstrates how familial outreach initiatives can begin to include space for parents’ voices and draw from this to create more responsive curriculum and learning experiences.