News and Announcements » The Heart of the district: Parental involvement drives Mission CISD forward

The Heart of the district: Parental involvement drives Mission CISD forward

MISSION, TEXAS (Nov. 20, 2025) – Mission CISD will join school districts across the country in celebrating National Parental Involvement Day. This annual observance recognizes the essential contributions families make to student learning and school success.

National data continues to show that students with engaged families earn higher grades, attend school more consistently, and are significantly more likely to graduate.

 According to the National PTA, studies show that strong family engagement can improve student performance by up to 30 percent.

THE IMPACT OF FAMILY ENGAGEMENT ON STUDENT SUCCESS

Mission CISD has seen these benefits reflected locally. The district currently has 343 active volunteers, with participation continuing to grow. Over the past year, Mission CISD recorded an increase in parent attendance at workshops, meetings, and campus events. These volunteers support school operations in ways that strengthen the district and help staff remain focused on instruction and student support.

“When families are actively involved, children thrive academically, emotionally, and socially,” said Nancy Villarreal, MCISD Family and Community Engagement and Migrant Coordinator. “Our parents and guardians are truly partners in education, and their commitment makes a meaningful difference in the lives of our students.”

Although volunteers do not work directly with students, their contributions provide value through operational support. Their work strengthens campuses in five keyways:

  • Strengthen Operational Capacity and Partnership: Volunteers maintain communication with school leadership and offer support that aligns with administrative needs.
  • Maximize Staff Time: By assisting with tasks such as preparing materials, organizing events, and managing clerical needs, volunteers give teachers and principals more time to focus on instruction and student services.
  • Support Enrichment Programs: Volunteers help coordinate school-wide enrichment activities and special events.
  • Informed Advocacy: Their involvement provides a deeper understanding of school operations, empowering them to advocate effectively for resources and improvements.

LOCAL COMMITMENT TO ENGAGEMENT AND GROWTH

Mission CISD volunteers support schools in numerous ways throughout the year. Many serve on essential committees such as SHAC, DAC, SBDM, LPAC, Migrant PAC, and DEIC. Others help decorate school floats, design bulletin boards, serve as supportive chaperones, and participate in booster clubs. Their commitment brings community spirit into every corner of the district.

Esmeralda Guerrero has been a dedicated volunteer with Mission CISD for nearly 11 years. While it may seem like a long time, she shared that the learning never stops.

 “One of the things I have learned as a volunteer is how to experience life through our children’s stages,” Guerrero said. “Being a volunteer has taught me to be a better mother, to be creative, to show leadership, to serve the community, to navigate challenges with ease, to set goals, and to gain knowledge I did not have before.”

Mission CISD encourages families, staff, and community partners to join in celebrating National Parental Involvement Day and to continue building meaningful connections throughout the school year.

The district values every volunteer and parent who supports its mission. Parents interested in becoming more involved are encouraged to contact their child’s campus directly.

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