Improving relationships and building better communication within families is the focus of Saturday’s Student and Parent Empowerment program from 9 a.m. – 12 p.m. in the Student Opportunity Center.

“If you have a tight bond between a parent and student, that allows for them to have great communication,” junior Hannah Bletsch said. “Having those tight bonds will build trust and fill that gap in communication.”

Saturday James Caldwell will be going over the “Four Goals of Misbehavior”, with the idea that misbehavior is the result of a child feeling discouraged due to failed attempts at belonging.

“I agree that it has to do with not feeling like belonging,” sophomore Jane Watson said. “But I also think that it has to do with how they grow up and their influences. Everyone wants to find someone to look up to, and so people will surround themselves with their friends, and their actions will follow.”

The program is designed by educators working with participants, local businesses, community organizations and volunteers to help families improve relationships, build communication and become better parents and students.

“I think it’s good so parents can understand what high school is like in our generation,” sophomore Fiona McGarva said. “If you have support from your parents, high school is a lot easier. They understand you better and get to know you more.”