The principal can best begin to address potential barriers to achieving the school goal of student involvement in the after-school program by taking which action first?

• A. Asking parents/guardians about how program attendance can be increased
• B. Introducing a mandatory after-school attendance policy without consultation
• C. Increasing surveillance around the after-school program
• D. Extending the school day for all students

Answer: (A)

Gaining input from families and other stakeholders to identify barriers to participation is the most effective first step. By asking parents/guardians about what would make attendance easier, the principal can uncover real obstacles—like transportation, after-school scheduling conflicts, safety concerns, or lack of information about the program—and learn what supports are practical and welcomed. This collaborative approach builds trust and ensures changes are responsive to students’ and families’ needs, increasing the likelihood that increased involvement will be sustainable.

The other options push for changes without first understanding underlying issues: mandating attendance without consultation can damage trust and overlook family circumstances; increasing surveillance can feel punitive and strain relationships; and extending the school day is a large change that requires resources and planning and may not address specific participation barriers.