​​
1. Which is the best communication platform for students and parents?
The choice of communication platform depends on various factors, including school rules, chapter member preferences, and the age group of participants. The following guidelines apply:
• Separate Forums: Student and parent communication forums should be kept separate to maintain the integrity of the student-led organization.
• Responsibility: Parents are responsible for ensuring that their communication with student members complies with all applicable rules and regulations.
• Parents' WhatsApp Forum: If a chapter establishes a separate WhatsApp forum for parents, it will be used to keep parents informed about the organization’s activities, events, and updates. This inclusion supports transparency and allows parents to engage with their children’s involvement. However, if the forum’s effectiveness is compromised by inappropriate behavior, the chapter may need to reconsider its continued use.
• Student Empowerment: As a student-led organization, it is essential that student members are empowered to advocate for their viewpoints. Parents reaching out on behalf of a student should reflect on why the student is not able to do so themselves.
• Limiting Interaction: The organization cannot be held responsible for any negative impact on student members resulting from parental behavior. It is crucial that interactions between parents and students are kept to a minimum and occur only when necessary.
​
2. Can parents communicate directly with students in the WhatsApp forum?
No, direct communication between parents and students in the WhatsApp forum is discouraged. The forum is intended for organization-wide communication and ensures that all members receive consistent information. Direct messages should be avoided to preserve the student-led nature of the organization.
​
3. How should parents raise concerns or suggestions?
Parents should address their concerns or suggestions directly with the teacher sponsor, chapter or central leadership team, or the designated parent liaison (for specific events or activities). This process ensures that issues are handled appropriately without involving students directly, thereby respecting the organization’s structure.
​
4. What is the role of parents in the organization?
Parents play a supportive role by staying informed and encouraging their children’s participation. However, decision-making and day-to-day operations are managed by student leaders. Parents should avoid intervening in these processes unless explicitly requested by the leadership team.
Areas where parental support is valuable include:
• Sharing Opportunities: Informing chapter and central leadership about opportunities for member participation.
• Financial Support: Contributing to the organization’s financial needs through platforms like Benevity.
• Financial Processes: Assisting with financial processes such as being a signatory for the organization (since all members are under 18), helping with state and federal filing processes, reviewing financial statements prepared by treasurers, and providing logistical support for events.
• Monitoring Compliance: Reporting any discrepancies in processes directly to the chapter and central leadership team, ensuring that the tone and engagement comply with organizational guidelines.
​
5. What should students do if they receive direct communication from parents?
If a student receives direct communication from a parent regarding organizational matters, they should politely redirect the parent to the leadership team. This practice helps maintain clear boundaries and ensures that all communication adheres to the organization’s ethical guidelines.
​
6. What happens if a parent violates the communication guidelines?
If a parent violates the communication guidelines by reaching out directly to students or intervening inappropriately, the leadership team will address the issue privately with the parent. Repeated violations may result in restricted access to the forum or other measures deemed necessary by the leadership team.
​
7. How does the organization ensure that it remains student-led?
The organization remains student-led by empowering students to assume leadership roles, make decisions, and manage activities. Parents are valued supporters but do not participate in decision-making or day-to-day operations. This structure helps students develop leadership skills and take ownership of the organization.
​
8. Can parents offer suggestions for events or activities?
Yes, parents can offer suggestions through the appropriate channels and processes. The leadership team also facilitates designated feedback sessions where suggestions are considered during the decision-making process.
​
9. What is the role of the parent liaison?
The parent liaison serves as the primary point of contact between parents and the organization’s leadership. This role ensures that parents’ voices are heard while maintaining the student-led nature of the organization. The liaison communicates parents' concerns, suggestions, and feedback to the leadership team. The chapter and central leadership teams have the authority to determine which parents’ assistance is needed for specific activities and processes. All parents have equal opportunities to contribute and participate if their engagement is considered productive and necessary by the leadership team.
​
10. How can parents stay informed about the organization’s activities?
Parents can stay informed through the WhatsApp forum, social media posts, and official communications from the leadership team. It is important for parents to respect the organization’s boundaries and allow students to lead discussions and decision-making processes.