This presentation reports findings from a case study of Hong Kong, which explores the intersecting perspectives of school and parent leaders in fostering home-school collaboration at a socioeconomically diverse primary school. Grounded in relational sociology, the research employs narrative analysis to examine how trans-subjectivity, reciprocity, and interdependencies shape partnership dynamics. Semi-structured interviews with school leaders (principal and vice principal) and parents (including Parent-Teacher Association representatives and caregivers of children with special educational needs) were conducted, supplemented by observational notes and follow-up participant-shared digital content (e.g., WhatsApp messages, photos). Thematic analysis revealed four key strategies: flexible scheduling (e.g., live-streamed assemblies, evening events) to accommodate working parents; culturally responsive practices (translated materials, multicultural events) to bridge language and cultural barriers; facilitating parent leadership and volunteerism; and community collaborations (NGO partnerships, peer-support programs) to address systemic barriers faced by families of children with special educational needs. Findings highlights the importance of mutual respect and shared decision-making between the school and parents, such as incorporating parent feedback into school policies. The study’s relational framework—prioritizing dialogue, trust, and systemic inclusion—offers insights for equity-focused partnerships in global educational contexts. While the single-case design limits generalizability, the triangulation of data sources strengthens credibility. By demonstrating how schools can transform structural barriers into opportunities for collective agency, this research advances practical and theoretical insights into culturally responsive home-school collaboration, urging policymakers to prioritize relational equity and sustainable resource allocation.

Authors:
Trevor Tsz-lok Lee, The Education University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong

About the Presenter(s)
Dr. Lee Trevor Tsz-lok is an associate professor and associate head in the Department of Education Policy and Leadership at the Education University of Hong Kong.

See this presentation on the full schedule – Saturday Schedule

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