The Eye of Hurricane Engagement Initiative

The New Castle Area School District is committed to strengthening parent–school relationships by creating ongoing opportunities for families to be informed, involved, and engaged. One powerful way the district is making this vision a reality is through the Eye of the Hurricane Engagement Initiative, inspired by the Hurricanes mascot.

This initiative opens classroom doors to families through teacher mini-grants. Teachers design classroom experiences, from academic activities to hands-on crafts, that welcome parents and guardians into their child’s learning environment. To reduce barriers, the central office purchases and delivers all necessary supplies, allowing teachers to focus on what matters most: connecting students and families to meaningful learning.

When families step into classrooms, they not only see the great things happening but also build trust and stronger relationships with the school community. Parents meet teachers, administrators, nurses, and security staff, creating a sense of comfort and belonging. Most importantly, these experiences open lines of communication and ensure families feel welcome and valued as partners in their child’s education. And kids notice. They notice when their parents walk into the classroom, when families and teachers connect, and when school feels like a team effort. That sense of pride and support makes a difference in how students view their own learning.

Through the Eye of Hurricane Engagement Initiative, NCASD is proving that when schools and families come together, students thrive.

Note: we have hosted over 100 teacher mini-grants in two years. That is 100 opportunities for parents/guardians and family members to be in the classrooms with teachers and students!