Upon successful completion of the course, students will be able to: discuss the evolving dynamics of U.S. families and their impact on student learning and development, with a focus on diverse family structures; apply bodies of knowledge and skills that are essential for the well-being of an entire household and that people actively use to define themselves; develop strategies for engaging with families and valuing their contributions to the educational process; reflect on how personal backgrounds and experiences influence professional practices in education, fostering a deeper understanding of the educator's role in family engagement; develop and implement effective communication strategies that promote positive, collaborative relationships between families, schools, and communities; and analyze and apply theories of family engagement and historical perspectives to create inclusive school climates that honor the diverse needs and strengths of all families; utilize leadership skills to advocate for social justice and equity in education, ensuring that all families have a voice in their child’s educational journey and that barriers to family participation are addressed.