SAN DIEGO, CA, April 15^th, 2026 — The Parent Institute for Quality Education (PIQE) has released its Winter 2026 Family Needs Assessment (FNA), offering critical insights into the experiences, challenges, and priorities of families across California. To read the full report, visit: [Click Here]. For a quick overview, read the brief: [Click Here].

The report reflects responses from 1,129 parents and caregivers and highlights ongoing concerns related to school safety, economic strain, access to resources, and the need for stronger family-school partnerships. 

Findings show that while most families feel respected and supported by schools, many continue to face barriers that impact their ability to fully engage. Nearly 80% of families identified affordable groceries as a top need, followed by housing and access to youth programs, underscoring the economic pressures shaping student experiences. 

The report also reveals that over 40% of caregivers experience challenges attending school events due to work schedules or transportation, and many expressed a desire for more opportunities to participate in school decision-making as equal partners. 

“This report makes one thing clear, families are deeply engaged and invested in their children’s education, but they continue to navigate systems that are not fully responsive to their realities,” said Dr. Monique Escobedo, Ph.D., Director of Research at PIQE and lead author of the report. “The findings highlight both the strength of family-school relationships and the urgent need to address economic pressures, access to resources, and opportunities for meaningful partnerships.”

Additionally, the findings highlight growing concerns around student safety, mental health, and access to academic support, alongside a strong demand for adult education opportunities such as English classes, technology training, and workforce development programs. 

As PIQE continues its work statewide, the Family Needs Assessment serves as a critical tool for educators, policymakers, and community leaders to better understand and respond to the evolving needs of families.

To read the full report, visit: [Click Here]. For a quick overview, read the brief: [Click Here]. To learn more about our research and reports: [Click Here].

Media Contact:

Isaac Cox

Director of Communications

icox@piqe.org                 

Parent Institute for Quality Education (PIQE)