Minister proposes parent-school coffee meetings in Belgium
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Elisabeth Degryse, the Minister-President of the Federation Wallonia-Brussels in Belgium, discussed ways to improve parental involvement in children’s education during a radio program on September 16.
Degryse suggested hosting morning coffee meetings with mothers to explain expectations for supporting their children’s learning at home, such as how to administer dictation exercises. The minister proposed these meetings as one method to rebuild the connection between parents and schools, acknowledging that some schools already hold similar events.
Degryse clarified that her suggestion stemmed from a spontaneous conversation and isn’t a formal policy. She also stated that teachers would not be responsible for organizing these meetings. Degryse responded to criticism that her proposal excluded fathers and perpetuated sexism by explaining that more mothers than fathers typically attend school meetings. She maintained that her intention wasn’t to reinforce this imbalance, but to address a current reality.
Degryse defended herself against accusations of not being a feminist, calling them a misinterpretation of her statements and emphasizing the many other challenges facing the education system.
