parents and principals as partners in creating a culture of learning

[ 94 J
class and standard meet regularly in small groups to discuss a variety of
topics and issues relating to the education of their children (Squelch &
Bray, 1996:230).
Register class committees provide opportunities for parents and teachers to
get to know each other, and for parents to support each other in various
educational endeavours. An inviting, comfortable "parent room" could be
set up where parents can meet on a regular basis (Badenhorst (ed.),
1995:117).
(2) Informal parental involvement
The parent-teacher organisations mentioned above allow parents to become
involved in the management ofschools. But participation in these bodies is limited
to a small percentage of the parent community. Many parents feel that they are
not able to consider elections to such bodies. However, such parents may still be
interested in becoming involved. Therefore the average parents who are not part
of one or other body should be included in other ways, so that they may be of
assistance to the school (Lemmer & Squelch, 1993:100-101).
(a) Classroom assistance
Although this aspect is controversial, volunteer parents can effectively assist with
classroom activities. Involving parents in classroom activities positively influences
teachers' interactions with parents. Parent assistance in this regard does require
sound planning and organisation. Examples of classroom assistance include the
following according to Macbeth (1989: 119); Dekker (1995: 14-15); and Oosthuizen
(ed.), (1994: 137).