2026 Conference Archive

Parent University: The Story of this Grass Route Organization and Successful Expansion

Format

Individual Presentation

First Presenter's Institution

CUSI/Parent University and Early Learning College

First Presenter’s Email Address

moneal@parentuniversitysav.org

First Presenter's Brief Biography

Presenter will provide.

Submitter

I am submitting this proposal on behalf of the presenter(s)

Location

Scarbrough 2

Strand #1

Home: Family & Community Engagement

Strand #2

Head: Academic Achievement & Leadership

Relevance

For 25+ years in Savannah, Georgia, Parent University has successfully enhanced the ability of families to create an environment in which learning thrives for both children and parents (both "Head" and "Home" strands are relevant).

Brief Program Description

For 25+ years in Savannah, Georgia, Parent University has successfully enhanced the ability of families to create an environment in which learning thrives for both children and parents. The organization offers education, resources, and experiences to boost family engagement.

Experience the Parent University journey to expand its philosophy in other locations around the country.

Summary

For more than 25 years in Savannah, Georgia, Parent University has supported families by offering comprehensive programs that foster learning for both children and parents. The organization delivers education, resources, and experiences designed to enhance family engagement within the community. Parent University is currently broadening its philosophy and expanding its reach to additional locations nationwide.

As a collaborative community initiative, Parent University creates opportunities and supportive environments for parents to invest in their own growth as well as the development of their children. Attendees benefit from an environment that cultivates confidence, encouragement, and competence, ultimately contributing to the improvement of individuals, families, neighborhoods, and communities. With a core focus on multi-generational, parent-centric education, Parent University in Savannah, GA, has made significant strides over the past 25+ years in reducing poverty, improving health and wellness, advancing public safety, and revitalizing neighborhoods.

The organization provides diverse workshop sessions and experiential learning covering topics such as public safety, civic leadership, health and wellness, academic support, juvenile delinquency, child and adolescent development, employment, entrepreneurship, financial literacy, environmental safety, recycling, communication, healthy relationships, and access to various family support resources. Parent University operates through an extensive network of community partners and expert instructors from both private and public sectors, who facilitate all activities. Partners also offer information and resource booths addressing issues including nutrition, cardiovascular health, employment, and youth programming. Engagement with law enforcement and human service agencies allows Parent University to deliver valuable information on preventing juvenile violence, recognizing gang activity, and providing resources and support for parents and guardians.

Parent University’s initiatives have led to consistent participation at each event during the year, with participants attending an annual graduation ceremony at the end of the program year.

In response to school closures and program disruptions caused by the pandemic, Parent University promptly transitioned to online programming to ensure continued access to relevant education, resources, and support for families. Programming expansions included mental health education, homeschooling resources, and COVID-19 health information provided by local physicians. The pandemic highlighted significant disparities in technology access and education, leading Parent University to establish a Tech College to address these challenges. This effective approach has garnered international recognition, and Parent University has since expanded to new cities, including Pensacola and Chicago.

Evidence

Awards, recognition, longevity, expansion of the program beyond the USA.

Learning Objective 1

A "parent-centric" model creates a feeling of ownership and community.

Learning Objective 2

Having a multi-generational focus - children, parents, and grandparents - leads to greater success for families to embrace learning.

Learning Objective 3

Experience the expansion process

Presentation Year

2026

Start Date

3-3-2026 2:45 PM

End Date

3-3-2026 4:00 PM

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Mar 3rd, 2:45 PM Mar 3rd, 4:00 PM

Parent University: The Story of this Grass Route Organization and Successful Expansion

Scarbrough 2

For 25+ years in Savannah, Georgia, Parent University has successfully enhanced the ability of families to create an environment in which learning thrives for both children and parents. The organization offers education, resources, and experiences to boost family engagement.

Experience the Parent University journey to expand its philosophy in other locations around the country.