LIMA, Ohio (WLIO) — Lima Senior High School is testing a new approach to boost parent involvement, inviting families to an informal conversation over coffee with the school’s assistant principals.
While turnout was smaller than hoped, the first “Coffee with the APs” event sparked meaningful discussion Thursday morning. Ninth-grade Assistant Principal Adam Baumgartner created the program to give parents a comfortable opportunity to share concerns, ask questions or offer positive feedback about their child’s education.
Parent Charles Bott said the support his son has received from teachers has made a significant difference.
Parent Charles Bott said the support his son has received from teachers has made a significant difference.
“He didn’t have no interest at all, and he was kind of blah about school altogether, and he got inspired by his choir teacher,” Bott said. “Ever since then, he’s had quite a few teachers that keep him inspired to keep going. And now he’s even talking about going to college because of it.”
Baumgartner said the event helps highlight the good happening inside the school while also encouraging honest dialogue.
“It’s just a good opportunity to get the word out about some of the positive things that we’re doing in the community, and to get some feedback, most importantly, about things we can improve upon—things we can do better—or some of the successes that parents and community members see,” Baumgartner said.
He added that parents can reach out during the school day anytime they have concerns about their child’s education.
