The school’s Family and Community Engagement (FACE) Committee has been working throughout the 2024-25 school year to create meaningful opportunities for students, parents, and staff to come together outside of the classroom. One of their latest initiatives–a Family Fun Night–brought more than 70 participants together for an evening of hands-on activities, games, and collaboration.

The event, held on February 5, featured a variety of 30-minute and 1-hour activities, including board games, yoga, LEGO building, STEM challenges, and painting with Sphero robots. Families enjoyed a pizza dinner before diving into the fun, choosing from an array of engaging, interactive options designed to promote creativity and teamwork.

For Johneen Hoose, a reading specialist, an organizer of the event, the goal was simple: to create a welcoming space where families and educators could connect.

“I feel it’s important to foster the home-school connection,” Hoose said. “School should be a welcoming and safe place for families. Open communication between home and school helps teachers and families work together to help students be successful.”

Persell Middle School recently hosted a Family Fun Night, attracting 70 participants together for an evening of hands-on activities, games, and collaboration.

The event built on the success of a similar activity night held last year. This time, the committee expanded offerings, making Family Fun Night even bigger and better.

“We had a great response last year, so we amped it up this year,” Hoose said. “It’s great to see students interacting with their families in a positive setting.”

More than just a night of fun, the event reinforced a sense of community and learning among students, families, and staff.

“We hope families came away from the night with a positive experience and a stronger sense of connection to the school community,” Hoose shared.

The FACE Committee isn’t stopping here. The team is already rolling out a Shamrock Challenge, an incentive-based program designed to encourage positive communication between home and school through talking points, notes home, and staff feedback.

Looking ahead, Persell Middle School is also planning an Open House Night with an outdoor cookout to make next year’s event even more inviting.

By continuing to create spaces where families feel welcomed and engaged, Persell Middle School is reinforcing the message that student success is a team effort — one that thrives on strong relationships between home and school.