Rep. Jehan Gordon (D-Peoria) is reminding local parents of the importance of being involved in their child’s education as Thursday is National Parent Involvement Day.

“Often times I am asked about my efforts as a young lawmaker, and I can trace it all back to the support that I received from my mom and dad while I was growing up. My parents took an interest in what I was reading, my grades and how I behaved at school,” Gordon said. “Through their actions my parents taught me that my education was important and would help me have success later in life.”

“The most important key to a child’s success is the support that they receive from home. It is important for parents or guardians to help children with homework and attend parent-teacher conferences and others school functions with their children,” Gordon explained. “Each time a parent takes an active interest in their child’s life, the child understands that their parent cares about their education and wants them to succeed.”

Gordon joins schools across the country in celebrating National Parental Involvement Day on November 17. The day recognizes parents who are involved in their child’s school and encourages other parents to be involved as well.

“When I talk to community members, one of their biggest concerns in education is often the importance parental involvement,” Gordon said. “Involved parenting is not something that can be legislated from Springfield, but it is rather an idea we need to support as a community.”

Gordon sits on the Elementary and Secondary Education Committee in the House of Representatives. If you have any questions, please contact Rep. Gordon’s constituent services office at 309-681-1992 or e-mail her at repjgordon@gmail.com.