For Parents

Parents Who Lead

Parent and caregiver engagement is no longer only about speaking up and participating on behalf of your own children. Being involved in child advocacy also means building relationships inside and outside of the school system because those relationships impact all children.

Parents Who Lead prepares you to be more actively involved in child advocacy. The program organizes events for participants to learn about the structure of local government and empowers parents to translate problems into action.  

You will learn: 

  • How cities and school systems work 

  • How and when to speak in public forums 

  • How to influence decisions in ways that create lasting change for all the kids in your community

By the end of the program, participants are able to create personalized projects that address changes they want to see in the education system.

Even after the program ends, your involvement doesn’t! JPEF organizes alumni events and opportunities to share your expertise as a parent and child advocate. 

Applications for the 2025 Class are being accepted until Nov. 22, 2024

Apply Now

New Worlds Reading Initiative

JPEF is a proud Regional Partner of the New Worlds Reading Initiative, Florida’s free at-home literacy program designed to help eligible VPK through 5th-grade students enhance their literacy skills and cultivate a lifelong love of reading. Each month, eligible children receive a free book tailored to their interests, accompanied by resources and activities for caregivers and children to enjoy together. JPEF also hosts and facilitates family workshops and community events to further support literacy development. The New Worlds Reading Initiative, administered by the UF Lastinger Center for Learning, collaborates with the Florida Department of Education and Scholastic to select book titles, which are available in English, Spanish, Haitian Creole, and braille. Learn more at newworldsreading.com.

Urban Education Summit

JPEF, in partnership with My Village Project and 904WARD, hosts this annual event to advance progress and innovation in urban education. The event brings together educators, students, parents, community advocates, and nonprofit organizations collaborating with schools. This gathering fosters a diversity of perspectives, providing participants with a deep understanding of the challenges in urban education and equipping them with actionable solutions for lasting impact, ensuring that all stakeholders are involved in the decision-making process.