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Identify strong leadership, especially a “point” person who is willing to make a long-term commitment to the effort.
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Educate men about the importance of their involvement. Emphasize the positive benefits of men’s involvement in their students’ education and in PTA.
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Meet with leadership and key players. Find a shared issue to address.
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Establish a plan of action. Get men involved in concrete projects.
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Meet with local administrators for approval. Address any safety concerns and follow volunteer and visitation policies.
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Develop a male engagement team of men and women. Seek out male community leaders and role models. Ask men to join directly, rather than through flyers or posters.
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Adapt communication and activities for male involvement. Don’t use generic materials! Keep messages succinct and to the point. Publicize men participating in activities to avoid the appearance of a “token” presence.
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Keep the momentum up.
- Keep school staff and PTA leadership involved and informed.
- Hold regular events and follow up.
- Celebrate successes and continue to evaluate progress.
- Reinforce male engagement with regular quarterly and biannual programs.
- Arrange for individual men to do one-day school visits.