Family engagement is a critical component of student success, yet many teacher preparation programs struggle to provide teacher candidates with authentic opportunities to develop the knowledge and skills needed to build effective partnerships with families. This session highlights an innovative approach implemented at Simmons College of Kentucky, a Historically Black College and University (HBCU), that immersed teacher candidates in meaningful family engagement experiences through community-centered events and field-based learning opportunities. This session demonstrates how HBCUs can strengthen educator preparation by intentionally embedding family engagement into program design. As schools increasingly recognize the importance of collaborative relationships with families, teacher candidates must be prepared to engage parents and caregivers as valued partners in the educational process.

Participants will learn how teacher candidates planned, implemented, and reflected upon family engagement activities that connected schools, families, and communities. The session will explore strategies used to develop candidates' communication skills, cultural responsiveness, leadership abilities, and understanding of family-centered practices. Presenters will discuss lessons learned, challenges encountered, and opportunities for expanding these experiences within teacher preparation programs.

The session is relevant to HBCUs, Minority-Serving Institutions (MSIs), and the broader higher education community because it offers a practical model for preparing future educators to meet the diverse needs of learners and families. Attendees will gain tools, strategies, and examples that can be adapted to a variety of institutional contexts.