What is Parent University?
Parent University is a compilation of resources and course offerings to help parents become full partners in their children’s education. First-semester courses include: Nutrition for the Early Years; Just Visiting – Internet and Cyber Safety; MAD (Mom and Dad) Science Saturdays; and Teaching Your Teen About Dollars and Cents.

What is the focus of the learning opportunities?
Parent University will concentrate in four areas:

• Parenting Awareness: Information and experiences that empower parents to raise self-confident, disciplined, motivated and educated children from birth through young adulthood.
• Helping Your Child Learn in the 21st Century: Empowering parents to actively support the educational opportunities and academic challenges that children face in the 21st Century.
• Health and Wellness: Information and activities that support healthy lifestyles for families, both physically and emotionally.
• Personal Growth and Development: Opportunities for parents to increase their own personal and professional growth, enabling them to effectively advocate for themselves and their children.

Who can attend Parent University?
It is not necessary to be a CMS parent to participate in Parent University. Parent University offerings are for everyone who wants to learn more about education, child development, wellness, personal development and more. You could be a grandparent, single parent, aunt, uncle or even an older sibling.

Why was Parent University created?
Parent University is a key strategy in the CMS Strategic Plan 2018. Studies show that the most successful students are those whose parents are involved. Parent University was created to help families learn what they can do to support their children’s academic success and well-being.

How can I learn more?
For more information about Parent University, contact the Family & Community Services Department at (980) 343-6256.

Where are the courses held?
Courses are held at area schools, libraries, YMCA, houses of worship, business offices and other locations throughout the county that are convenient to parents. In the future, courses will also be available online. If you would like us to bring Parent University offerings to your site, please contact us at (980)-343-6256.

How do I register?
Registration forms are available on the CMS Web site (www.cms.k12.nc.us) under the Parent University link. Or, you may contact us by phone at (980) 343-6256.

Is transportation offered?
Unfortunately, we are unable to provide transportation at this time.

How much do the courses cost?
All Parent University courses scheduled for the 2008-2009 fall semester are free.

How many classes I can take?
There is no limit to how many classes one can take.

Are classes offered in multiple languages?
Several courses are offered in Spanish.

Could I offer a course?
Yes. Please contact the Family & Community Services Department at (980) 343-6256 if you are interested in offering a course or if you have a course suggestion. All courses are subject to review by the Parent University Curriculum Review Committee.

Is childcare available?
Unfortunately, we are unable to provide childcare at this time.

Do courses have credits?
Academic credits are not provided for Parent University courses. However, we will acknowledge participation and achievement.