A Qualitative Study for Parental Involvement in Middle School: Perspectives of Parents and Teachers

Author

Twana Ivory, Nova Southeastern UniversityFollow

Date of Award

2025

Document Type

Dissertation

Degree Name

Doctor of Education (EdD)

Department

Abraham S. Fischler College of Education and School of Criminal Justice

Advisor

Sandra Duncan

Committee Member

Tatjana Martinez

Committee Member

Kimberly Durham

Keywords

family engagement, middle school, parental involvement, qualitative research, school-family partnerships

Abstract

This applied dissertation was designed to examine the barriers contributing to low parental involvement in a selected middle school. Parental engagement has been widely linked to student academic success and positive behavior outcomes; however, involvement tends to decline as students enter middle school. The purpose of this study was to explore the experiences and perceptions of educators and parents regarding parental involvement, identify the challenges families face, and discover opportunities to strengthen school-family collaboration.

The researcher employed a qualitative research design using a phenomenological approach. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with eleven participants, including six middle school teachers and five parents. The data were analyzed using thematic analysis, and eight major themes emerged: (a) Active Support Through Presence and Communication, (b) Challenges to Consistent Engagement, (c) Logistical and Socioeconomic Barriers, (d) Developmental Shifts and Perception Gaps, (e) Proactive Communication and Digital Engagement, (f) Inclusive Events and Flexible Meeting Options, (g) Collaborative Problem Solving and Enrichment, and (h) Shared Responsibility and Cultural Understanding.

The findings revealed that although significant barriers exist (i.e., limited time, outdated contact information, and transportation challenges), the strategic use of digital communication and culturally responsive practices can promote greater parental and family involvement. This study supports the need for developmentally appropriate and inclusive strategies to increase middle school parental engagement. The results may assist school leaders and educators in designing more effective family partnership initiatives to support student achievement.

NSUWorks Citation

Twana Ivory. 2025. A Qualitative Study for Parental Involvement in Middle School: Perspectives of Parents and Teachers. Doctoral dissertation. Nova Southeastern University. Retrieved from NSUWorks, Abraham S. Fischler College of Education and School of Criminal Justice. (837)
https://nsuworks.nova.edu/fse_etd/837.