On a bright Thursday afternoon in the Roy J. Smith Middle School library, sunlight filtered through the windows as families, educators, and staff gathered to celebrate the graduation of 14 parents who completed Killeen ISD’s Parenting Partners program. The space was alive with students cheering on their parents, a colorful balloon arch, refreshments, and matching t-shirts symbolizing the joy of collaboration and growth.
The six-week Parenting Partners program, implemented throughout different campuses as part of KISD’s commitment to family engagement, provides parents with strategies to strengthen communication, build confidence in children, and deepen connections with schools.
The curriculum is facilitated across campuses by the district’s network of Parent Liaisons and supported by Andrea Dykes, Federal and State Programs Parenting & Intervention Specialist. Shelia Hodges, Campus Parent Liaison at Roy J. Smith Middle School, led the campus sessions.
“We have an incredible team of parent liaisons who are passionate about building partnerships between families and schools,” Dykes said. “This program gives parents practical tools they can use right away to strengthen their homes, connect with their child's school, and help their children thrive.”
Each week, participants engaged in interactive discussions on parenting styles, communication, and creating confident children. Sessions encouraged open dialogue, reflection, and shared support among parents.
“Our parents came with open hearts and a true willingness to grow together,” Hodges said. “We learned from one another, celebrating differences, offering support, and realizing that parenting is a shared journey. The program helps parents see the school through a new lens and better equips them to support their children’s academic and emotional growth.”
Parent participant Star Salinas shared how the experience transformed her perspective: “I learned so much from the other parents and the curriculum,” Salinas said. “Everyone’s story is different, and it helped me step back and see things in a new way. This program has given us as parents confidence and the tools we need to help our kids succeed. Parents who are not part of this are missing out.”
The next session of Parenting Partners will begin in the spring of 2026.
“This is just the beginning,” Dykes added. “The connections built here will continue through volunteering and ongoing engagement. When families and schools work together, our students achieve at higher levels.”
Killeen ISD recognized graduates Chantel Bailey, Viorica Baul, Rhonda Brown, Reese Region, Shameek Jones, Eric Miranda, Oscar Peña, Emily Barragán, Brianna Boothe, Guadalupe Bustamante, Cassia Herrera, Lorna Lazie, Laura Peña, and Maristrella Salinas for their commitment to learning and leadership.
This initiative underscores Killeen ISD’s commitment to fostering collaborative relationships between families and schools by providing spaces where parents and educators can learn from one another.
View full album of photos here. https://flic.kr/s/aHBqjCzXFS
Learn more about parent, family, and community engagement by visiting: www.killeenisd.org/pfce