This year marks an exciting expansion of the Parent Mentor Program (PMP) as it continues to grow its impact. Rooted in the belief that parents are essential partners in student success, the program places trained parent leaders into classrooms to support teachers, strengthen school communities, and build meaningful bridges between families and schools. Led by the Southwest Organizing Project (SWOP) in partnership with Palenque LSNA, the program has long been a pillar of community-driven school improvement—and this year’s expansion shows just how powerful that model can be with a much deserved and earned a $20 million State of Illinois allocation for the program.
In partnership with principals, teachers, and community members, the PMP has successfully added 50 (from 243 - 293) new schools state-wide to the Parent Mentor Program, making it the largest and most active cohort the organization has ever supported. With more schools joining, the program now reaches over 40,000 students who benefit from the consistent, culturally grounded presence of Parent Mentors. This growth reflects both community demand and the strong reputation the program has built over the years for improving student engagement, boosting literacy, and creating welcoming classroom environments.
With all the new schools onboarded, new Parent Mentors are working toward a successful year of building relationships and leadership development. Many are parents, grandparents, or caregivers who have long been involved in their school communities but now have a structured pathway to make an even deeper impact. Their presence not only strengthens classrooms but also helps cultivate new community leaders—individuals who go on to advocate for resources, participate in organizing campaigns, and support broader efforts to improve neighborhoods and schools. As the program continues to grow, SWOP and its partners remain committed to elevating the voices of families and empowering them to help shape the future of education on the Southwest Side and across the state of Illinois.
