What is the first step a school administrator should take to involve ELL parents in governance?

The first step a school administrator should take to involve ELL parents in governance is understanding the demographics of the ELL parent population. This foundational action allows the administrator to gain insights into the cultural backgrounds, language proficiencies, and specific needs of the parents in the community. By knowing who the parents are, the administrator can tailor outreach efforts effectively and ensure that communication is relevant, respectful, and accessible.

Once this demographic understanding is established, the administrator can develop appropriate strategies for engagement that consider language barriers and cultural differences. This knowledge can inform decisions about the language of communication, types of events to hold, and how to encourage more meaningful participation from parents. Such an informed approach fosters a sense of belonging and demonstrates to parents that their voices are valued, thereby enhancing their involvement in school governance.

Other choices, while beneficial, are subsequent steps that would be more effective after identifying the demographics of the ELL parents. It's crucial to first understand the audience before implementing outreach programs, inviting parents to events, or determining the language used in meetings.