The Virtuous Flywheel: How Strong School-Family Partnerships Transform Student Success

By Eric Sampson, M.Ed.

As a teacher and school leader, I’ve seen firsthand how parent support can be the single most powerful predictor of a student’s success, especially for those with special needs. Research confirms this: A 2023 study in the International Journal of Educational Policy and Leadership (IJEPC) found that family involvement is not just helpful, but essential for the holistic development of students with diverse learning needs.

But building these partnerships isn’t always easy. It’s a lot like starting a flywheel, a mechanical device Leonardo da Vinci designed a version of centuries ago. At first, it takes significant effort to get it moving. But once it gains momentum, it becomes almost self-sustaining, generating energy and progress that grows exponentially.

The same is true for school-family collaboration. Early efforts may feel slow and challenging, hindered by lack of trust, past experiences, or busy schedules. Yet, once that connection is forged, the results can be transformative.

Why Family Partnerships Matter

1. Teachers Who Know Students Help Them Thrive

When educators understand a student’s family dynamics, they can tailor instruction, adjust rigor, and offer targeted support. For example, knowing how a student interacts with siblings or handles routines at home can help teachers:

- Design more effective learning strategies

- Set appropriate academic and behavioral expectations

- Provide parents with actionable ways to reinforce learning at home

2. Bridging the Gap Between Home and School

Parents often see one side of their child; perhaps the struggles, the frustrations, or the strengths that shine at home. But when schools and families share observations, something powerful happens. When parents trust educators’ insights about their child’s behavior or learning differences, real progress accelerates.

I’ve witnessed countless “aha” moments when parents and teachers align their understanding of a student’s needs. These moments don’t just improve academic performance; they build confidence, resilience, and a shared commitment to growth.

How to Build and Maintain Strong Partnerships

For Schools and Educators:

Communication is the key to momentum. Schools should empower teachers to connect with families regularly and meaningfully. Here’s how:

Digital Tools

Use platforms like ClassDojo, Seesaw, Rewind, or Google Classroom.

Parent-Teacher Conferences

Schedule focused, two-way conversations (not just once a year!).

Progress Folders

Send home a daily/weekly folder with notes, behavior logs, or reading records.

Student-Led Sharing

Encourage students to explain their work at home using school prompts.

Regular Check-Ins

Set up brief, consistent touchpoints to track progress and adjust goals.

For Parents:

When researching schools, ask:

How do you help teachers and parents stay connected?

What systems are in place to ensure I’m informed about my child’s progress and challenges?

How can I be an active partner in my child’s education?

Pro Tip: Even a simple notebook that travels between home and school can become a powerful tool for communication and collaboration.

The Ripple Effect of Trust

When schools and families work together, the benefits extend far beyond report cards:

Students feel seen and supported in both environments.

Teachers gain valuable insights to differentiate instruction.

Parents become confident advocates for their child’s learning journey.

The flywheel starts to spin. Momentum builds. And what once felt like an uphill battle becomes a self-reinforcing cycle of success.

About the Author

Eric Sampson, M.Ed. is an senior school leader and special education supervisor with over a decade of experience from pre-K through 12th grade. He holds a Master’s in Educational Leadership and is passionate about building bridges between schools and families to unlock every student’s potential.