National Webinar Series | Beyond Participation: Exploring the Road to Family Partnerships framework

The Road to Family Partnerships framework illustrates a developmental journey from traditional, school-directed participation toward authentic, shared leadership between families and schools. This presentation guides participants through each stage of the Roadmap, Parent Participation, Parent Involvement, Family Engagement, and ultimately Family Partnership, highlighting how everyday interactions can either reinforce one-way communication or create opportunities for collaboration, trust, and shared responsibility. Using a strengths-based and culturally responsive lens, the session explores practical strategies for building two-way communication, supporting family voice in decision-making, and developing sustainable structures where families serve as co-creators of school policies, programs, and student success. Attendees will leave with tools and reflective practices that help shift school culture from isolated events toward holistic, community-centered partnership that honors family expertise and strengthens outcomes for all learners.

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Speaker:

Estrella Ruiz, MSW, LSW. As the Family Coordinator for the Departments of Access, Opportunity, and Family Partnership and Culturally and Linguistically Diverse Education, Estrella leads transformative work centered on strengthening relationships between families and schools. Her approach is grounded in the belief that true partnership is a developmental process, one that evolves from participation to involvement, to engagement, and ultimately to shared leadership. With a Bachelor’s and Master’s in Social Work, Estrella designs and facilitates district-wide and statewide trainings that help educators build culturally responsive practices, two-way communication systems, and structures that elevate family expertise in decision-making. Her work emphasizes shifting school culture from isolated, school-directed events toward holistic, community-centered partnerships where families and educators serve as co-creators of student success. Beyond her district role, Estrella organizes community initiatives, and participates in boards and committees dedicated to equity and social justice. Her leadership continues to create spaces where families feel valued, heard, and empowered.