The Role of Parental Engagement in Improving Academic Performance: Evidence from Brazilian Public Schools

Abstract

Parental engagement plays a critical role in improving academic performance, particularly in underprivileged contexts like Brazil’s public schools. This paper explores the impact of parental involvement on key educational outcomes, including attendance, homework completion, and overall academic success. Drawing on evidence from studies and successful regional initiatives, the analysis highlights how parental engagement fosters emotional and motivational support, strengthens family-school partnerships, and addresses systemic barriers such as poverty and institutional shortcomings. Effective programs like Escola da Família and Parceria com a Comunidade demonstrate scalable strategies for empowering parents to actively participate in their children’s education. The paper also examines long-term implications, including the potential for reducing dropout rates, promoting educational equity, and shaping future research and policy initiatives. By prioritizing parental engagement, Brazil’s education system can create a more inclusive and supportive framework, ensuring sustainable improvements in academic outcomes and broader societal benefits.