On September 30th, the Southwest Organizing Project’s (SWOP) local Parent Mentor Program brought together Parent Mentors from five elementary schools at Sor Juana Elementary School for a training session to prepare for their return to classrooms this fall. Led by SWOP Parent Mentor Organizer Carmen De Santiago, the gathering brought together mentors from Sor Juana, Mark Twain, Richard Edwards, Nightingale, and Stevenson Elementary Schools to prepare for the school year and strengthen their roles in supporting students, teachers, and families.
The Parent Mentor Program creates opportunities for parents to become more involved in their children’s education while building stronger relationships between families and schools. By working alongside teachers and school staff, Parent Mentors provide valuable classroom support, help students with their learning, and encourage greater family engagement in the school community. The program also gives parents an opportunity to develop new skills, build confidence, and explore pathways toward future employment in education and other professional fields.
The training gave Parent Mentors an opportunity to reconnect, prepare for their responsibilities, and reflect on the goals they hope to accomplish throughout the school year. Many SWOP organizers and leaders were present to share their stories of how they got involved with the organization, reinforcing how many started out as community members who found that SWOPs beliefs aligned with their own goals. Beyond practical preparation, these gatherings provide a space for mentors to encourage one another, share experiences, and build the confidence needed to make a meaningful difference in their schools.
As Parent Mentors prepare to return to their classrooms, their enthusiasm reflects a shared commitment to helping students succeed and ensuring families remain active partners in their children’s education. Through their continued presence and dedication, Parent Mentors help create more supportive learning environments where students, educators, and families can grow together.
One Parent Mentor shared this with during the training. "I am so excited to get back into school to support the kids. I know things will be a little different, but it's amazing to watch the students grow and be able to help them on their academic journeys."
With these five schools preparing for another year of collaboration, SWOP’s Parent Mentor Program continues to demonstrate the value of bringing parents and educators together. As
the school year progresses, Parent Mentors will have opportunities to strengthen their skills, support classroom learning, and build relationships that contribute to stronger school communities across the southwest side of Chicago.
