parents and principals as partners in creating a culture of learning

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that parents are more critically disposed towards the school nowadays than
before. It is essential that parents be fully informed of the school's
activities so that they can make a positive and real contribution to the
education of their children. A newsletter could serve this purpose
effectively (cfA.3.5).
2.14 41 % of the respondents did not experience trust, understanding and respect
between the principal and themselves when information concerning
educational matters is exchanged. The cooperation between parents and
principals should denote a partnership. In such a partnership,
communication should entail murual trust, respect and understanding
(Dekker, 1993:6; Kruger, 1996:37). According to Oosthuizen (ed.)
(1994: 147) a su=ssful partnership depends, among other things, on
parents and principals trusting and respecting one another, being aware of
an understanding of one another's needs and aspirations when information
is exchanged (cf.4.3A (3»). According to Oberholzer, et at., (1990:150)
both parents and principals have a fundamental task as regards their
involvement in a partnership. A partnership can only be harmonious and
effective if there is good communication.
2.15 One fifth of the respondents felt that the principal does not consider the
information they share with him to be to the ultimate benefit of their
children. All parents can contribute valuable information about their
children. Information concerning children's likes and dislikes, strengths
and weaknesses, along with any relevant medical details can often only be
obtained from the parents. Such information can help principals to help the
child to succeed (Kruger, 1996:33-34) (cfA.3.6). Discussions between
parents and principals should be honest, frank and candid. They should not
hesitate to supply information regarding the child to each other and such
information should be treated as confidential.