By Carol Watson Williams: The field of study on parental involvement (PI) in the education of their children has grown significantly since the 1980’s and has evolved into an expanding area of interest by policy makers, researchers and educational practitioners.  Nonetheless,  this area is a “very immature field of study” compared to other aspects of education. The data amassed in this area, thus far, indicates, overwhelmingly, that when schools and families work together, a partnership for support of children is created and education becomes a shared venture, with all parties benefiting. Schools that encourage parental involvement are more likely to have children who are open to learning and this will be reflected in improved overall academic performance for the school.