Organization of Parenting Education Programs (OPEP)

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OPEP is a professional organization of parenting education program administrators and coordinators representing community and technical colleges.

 

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Vision

Parenting Education in Washington State's community and technical colleges will be recognized as a high quality, effective, responsive contributor to the state's healthy families, communities, and economies.

Mission

Parenting Education in Washington State's community and technical colleges builds stronger and healthier families through adult and adult-child learning.

Message

The economic future of our state depends on the success of every child born today.

Parents are their children's first and most important teachers:

• The early years from birth to five are critical to a child’s development. Early Childhood and Family programs are geared to helping families of children in these formative years.
• Studies show that children whose parents are involved in their education and learning are more successful in school.
• Research shows that early childhood programs involving both parents and children are more effective than programs focusing exclusively on children.

Parenting lasts a lifetime:

• Extensive research shows that nurturing, stable and protective relationships are essential for a child’s brain development.
• Community and technical colleges provide programs that allow parents to develop skills and abilities to help their children be successful.
• Through participation in college affiliated parent cooperatives, parents develop leadership abilities which are valuable as emerging skills for the workforce, stewardship, advocacy and community work.

Support for parenting education programs strengthens families and enhances a parent's ability to provide the best possible environment for the healthy growth and development of their child.

OPEP Provides

• Communication about Parenting Education/Early Learning/ Family Living programs at the colleges statewide.
• Current information concerning research, curricula, public policy, and staff training.
• Professional expertise to individuals, organizations, and agencies working with and on behalf of families and children in the state.
• Professional development for coordinators and program staff.
• Resource material and program standards for coordinators.
• Collaboration and co-sponsorship with statewide conferences and workshops.

Contact Information

OPEP Coordinators
Updated May 2013

Meeting Dates

• Board Meeting
  November 1, 2012
  Rainbow Lodge, North Bend
  
• General Meeting / Fall Retreat
  November 1-2, 2012
  Rainbow Lodge, North Bend

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