One of the most important reminders we often share at Northern is this: God gives children to parents, not to schools.
As a school, we have the great privilege and responsibility of teaching, guiding and nurturing students each day. However, parents play the most important role as a child’s first teachers. That is why the partnership between home and school is not just helpful; it is essential.
In today’s busy world, family calendars are often full, and life moves quickly. Raising and shaping children is a calling God primarily gives to parents. We read in Proverbs 22:6, “Train up a child in the way he should go...” At Northern, we are thankful to walk alongside families as they navigate the parenting journey. We call this ‘Parent Partnership’.
We deeply value strong and genuine parent partnership. We want every family to feel welcomed, supported and connected, not just informed, but truly involved. Many parents tell us that one of the reasons they chose Northern is that they feel included in their child’s learning journey. That sense of shared purpose is something we treasure and want to continue strengthening.
Laying the foundation for a solid parent partnership culture requires some simple but meaningful building blocks:
Open communication - sharing what’s happening in your child’s life so we can support them well. If your child is feeling unsettled, has lost a pet, is struggling with friendships, or is experiencing change at home, letting their teacher know helps us care for them more intentionally.
Encouraging one another - sometimes partnership is as simple as sending a kind email, praying for a teacher, or offering a word of encouragement.
Supporting community - welcoming other parents, showing kindness, and helping create the warm and caring culture that makes Northern special.
Praying together - lifting up our children, families, and staff before God, asking Him to guide, grow and strengthen each one.
When parents and school walk together, children thrive. They experience consistency, support and a shared vision for who they are becoming.
We are so grateful for the partnership we share with Northern families. Thank you for your openness, trust, encouragement, and commitment to your child’s academic, social, and spiritual growth.
Many of my fellow principals often comment on the strength of parent involvement and encouragement at Northern. It truly is something special, and we never take it for granted.
Please know that we are praying for you as you lead and guide your children each day, praying that God will give you strength, wisdom and deep joy in this calling He has given you. Together, by God’s grace, in partnership with parents, we are helping raise young people who know they are loved, supported and guided every step of the way.
Bethany Armstrong - Principal
