The book of which Óscar González is the author, and of which I spoke a few days ago, has been extended by José Antonio Marina. From that prologue I have taken a phrase that I think responds to the objective that Oscar intends with his work, and that - in any case - I like it because many families will be reflected in it, or at least it will be a longing for many people.
'Parents and teachers form the basic pedagogical team, and we must develop a shared pedagogy that allows the house and the school not to be separate or antagonistic spaces, but cooperators. Every day there is more talk about complementing and learning, about complementary learning, between both institutions, but this very basic idea finds many difficulties to be put into practice. '
The book that I have in my hands thanks to Óscar and the Desclée publishing house, is a compendium of ideas that reflect the current situation of the relationship between two fundamental parts of the educational community: on one side the schools, on the other the families. It is also a source of advice and recommendations oriented not only to the improvement of that relationship, but also of the education system as a whole.
Understanding why a Primary teacher can answer so many questions and concerns is easy, knowing your professional career. But you should also keep in mind that when you open the cover of the book, we find not only your valuable experience, but also a multitude of bibliographical references, as well as opinions of parents, educators and education experts.
'Family and School. School and Family ', is a practical and optimistic guide that provides real and proven solutions. If we think that we are part of the solution, it is not so far-fetched to improve cooperation between families and schools, nor to bet on an educational change that - as Oscar said in the interview we conducted - focus on students.
When I had the book in my hands and I leafed through it for the first time I thought it was meant to cause positive changes from a small action. On the other hand it is the typical text that reading it and saving it in the library will not improve anything that is intended to change, since everyone's commitment to improve education would be enforceable.
Everything I say is too much, since what I would like you to do is read it. You will find answers to how to improve communication between family and school, experiences that work, reflections on the importance of teachers in the lives of families, etc.
As I said the other day, the topics are rabid news, and it is highly recommended have it at home or at school where you are a teacher. You will find it in your usual bookstore, and in Desclée for 15 euros (paper version) or 8.99 (e book).
