Set up a meeting with the principal so you can focus solely on discussing parental involvement. The principal is likely to be very busy as the school's leader, so setting up time to discuss the issue without distractions can help you stress the importance.
Express to the principal how important parental involvement is to the success of the students. Research has shown that children with involved parents attend school more regularly and have higher grades. Though he may already know this, reiterating the point can help strengthen the commitment your principal has in getting and keeping parents involved.
Talk to the principal about ways to help get and keep parents involved in school functions. You can set up monthly morning meetings to discuss upcoming school events or issues. Set up evening meetings as well for working parents who can't make the appropriate schedule adjustments.
Focus on older students and their parents first. A report by the U.S. Department of Education in 2004 explained why parental involvement declines as children get older. The principal should be committed to having all students' parents involved, not just younger students.
Help the principal utilize electronic resources, such as email and websites. Post newsletters online and send periodic emails to keep parents up-to-date on school functions and issues. The principal can have final approval of the letters and emails, although this task can be delegated to another teacher if necessary.
Give the principal regular updates as to how the students, teachers and parents are doing as they work together. This can keep the principal motivated to continue stressing the importance of parental involvement.