Strengthening Family-School Partnerships with DCPS Connected Schools

Grateful to partner with DCPS Connected Schools for a powerful training on equity in family communication.

At Coaction Collective, we believe that strong family-school partnerships don’t just happen—they’re built through intentional conversations, shared reflection, and meaningful collaboration. That’s why we were thrilled to partner this winter with DC Public Schools (DCPS) Connected Schools to support more effective, inclusive communication between schools and families.

Facilitated by Coaction’s Diana Suarez and Nicole Savage, this professional development series brought educators together for thoughtful discussions around family partnership. Each session offered actionable strategies for building stronger relationships and ensuring every family feels seen, heard, and valued.

Throughout the series, educators explored how communication systems can become more welcoming, how to approach family conferences as collaborative opportunities, and how to build a school culture where all families feel like partners in learning. A highlight of the series was when three parents joined the conversation, sharing personal stories of what meaningful engagement has looked like for them in Connected Schools—showing the real-life impact of intentional outreach and relationship-building.

We’re honored to support this initiative and deeply inspired by the honesty, commitment, and care that DCPS educators brought to each session. Their openness to growth and connection is what makes long-term partnership with families possible.

As we continue this important work into the spring, we look forward to more opportunities to help schools build stronger communication practices that serve all families and support every student’s success.

Thank you to the DCPS Connected Schools educators who are creating the conditions for deeper connection—and better outcomes—for students and families across the district. 💛

Diana Suarez of Coaction Collective kicks off a powerful discussion with panel members, including Bilquis Lawrence, Nisa Harper, and Charlene Golphin, on building trust and equity in family-school communication during the DCPS Connected Schools Family Engagement training.