Our programs
Parent Engagement Program
Free of charge. Offered in English and Spanish. Cohorts meet annually September through April.
PEP continues to stand as one of PPS-PC’s most transformative initiatives – an immersive, hands-on learning experience offered free of charge to all participants. At a time when public schools across NC face unprecedented challenges, PEP provides something invaluable: a pathway for parents, caregivers, and community members to deepen their understanding of public education and become informed, confident advocates for students and schools. If you’re passionate about supporting public schools, this program is for you.
Why PEP Matters
PEP cohort participants take part in a dynamic series of activities that help them:
- Complete interactive learning modules
- Connect with fellow public school supporters
- Identify barriers that impact student success
- Build skills to advocate effectively for students and schools
PEP equips participants with the knowledge, context, and tools needed to champion high-quality public education – a right guaranteed by the North Carolina Constitution.
Monthly session topics
- Introduction to public schools
- School leadership
- School culture
- Academics and curriculum
- Special education
- Supporting all students
- School funding & local governance
Immersive learning
PEP goes beyond the classroom. Cohort participants engage in real-world experiences such as:
- Attending a school board meeting
- Volunteering in a local school
- Participating in PTA or Title 1 events
- Advocacy day trip to Raleigh
Since launching in 2014 – 2015, PPS-PC has hosted eight PEP cohorts, engaging more than 175 participants who continue to advocate for strong public schools.
“I am profoundly grateful for the experiences that PEP has provided for me and my fellow cohort participants. The knowledge I’ve gained about the public education system as a whole, and my role as a parent within it, has been invaluable. Because of Parents for Public Schools I now feel equipped to be a strong advocate not only for my children, but for others in public schools, and I hope to continue my journey far beyond the end of our cohort.”
Early Childhood Development (ECD) PEP
ECD PEP is designed to help participants understand how the early building blocks of learning begin with healthy brain development. ECD PEP works with parents, caregivers, and family members to ensure a healthy start for young children, as well as preparing parents to be effective education partners with their children’s schools. Topics covered during ECD PEP include: understanding brain development; supporting emotional and social development; minimizing toxic stress; supporting language, literacy, and pre-academic skills; and providing strong nutrition and physical activity.
PEP Workshops
PEP workshops focus on current educational issues and community interest. Annually in January PPSPC hosts a Kindergarten 101 Workshop designed for families who have a child who will be starting Kindergarten in the fall. Public Schools 101 for Business Leaders is a workshop that helps business leaders better understand the public school system and the direct impact public schools have on the local community and in particular local businesses.
If you have questions about PEP please email jbreazeale@ppspittcounty.org