At Modesto City Schools, parent engagement is more than participation: it’s partnership. Through the dedication of the district’s Parent Engagement & Outreach (PEO) Department, families are gaining the tools, confidence and knowledge to become active contributors in their children’s education and the broader school community.
Behind every workshop, meeting and resource shared is a team of professionals committed to one goal: building meaningful connections between families and schools.
The PEO team works tirelessly to provide opportunities for parents to connect with educators, learn about student supports and access community resources. From districtwide trainings to site-based initiatives, their efforts are designed to make every family feel seen, heard and valued.
One of PEO’s cornerstone efforts, Parents Make a Difference, gives families a seat at the table with their child’s principal and school staff. These meetings offer parents a direct line to discuss academic and wellness supports, ask questions and share feedback about their school experience.
Another key initiative, the Parent Ambassador Program (PAP), currently includes 13 ambassadors who serve as vital connectors between families and schools. Supported and trained by PEO staff, the ambassadors help parents navigate resources, share updates about programs and events, and encourage involvement in school activities. Monthly gatherings bring ambassadors together for training, collaboration and mentorship to expand their impact across the district.
The results are tangible: more parents attending events, more families accessing needed services and stronger relationships built on trust.
After attending a Parents Make a Difference meeting at Gregori High School, one parent shared, “It was good to hear about all the resources the school offers.”
Another parent from Martone Elementary said, “I just really appreciate the time and effort put into everything. It was informative and showed a true sense of purpose you have for our community and youth.”
For PEO Director Madie Herrera, these testimonials speak to the heart of their mission.
“We see parents as our most valued and influential partners in their child’s academic success and overall well-being,” she said. “When families are engaged, they’re empowered, and that empowerment ripples outward, strengthening our schools and our entire community.”
PEO’s work also reinforces the district’s commitment to equity and inclusion, ensuring every family has access to information, resources and a voice in decision-making processes that shape student success.
Families and community members are encouraged to take part by attending upcoming Parents Make a Difference meetings, joining site or district committees, or reaching out to learn more about how to get involved.
To learn more about programs or upcoming opportunities to participate, visit the Parent Engagement & Outreach web page.
