School Partnerships Expand Parenting Education in Rural New York

Cornell University implemented an extension project to explore and pilot strategies for developing structured, long-term partnerships between CCE county associations and rural schools in New York State, with a specific focus on parenting education. Researchers convened a Steering Committee of CCE Executive Directors with experience partnering with rural schools. The project included surveys of CCE county offices, interviews with rural school administrators, PTA leaders, and school grant writers, and engagement with statewide rural school organizations. Building on this information, researchers collaborated with parent educators in Livingston, Oneida, and Orange counties to document existing partnerships. These collaborations resulted in detailed case studies examining partnership origins, activities, staffing, funding approaches, challenges, and outcomes. 

Results

The project produced three in-depth case studies that capture the diverse and nuanced nature of school-extension partnerships across counties. These case studies provided practical examples of how partnerships are formed, maintained, and adapted to local contexts. Findings were shared with CCE leadership through established communication channels to support broader awareness and application. Schools and parent leaders reported increased awareness of CCE parenting education programs, while parent educators identified best practices for relationship-building and sustained collaboration. Collectively, the case studies established a transferable knowledge base and practical roadmap to guide other county associations in developing customized school partnerships. 

Public Value Statement

By strengthening collaboration between rural schools and local extension offices, Cornell University expands access to trusted parenting education and family resources. These partnerships support positive parenting practices, enhance family resilience, and strengthen school-community connections, contributing to improved outcomes for children, families, and communities across New York State.