Selecting a school is one of the most important decisions a parent will make, yet myth and misperception often cloud conversations about public schools. The Pasadena Education Network (PEN), a network of more than 1,000 parents who send their children and support the Pasadena Unified School District, presents a series of free programs to help parents understand their public school options in Pasadena, Altadena, and Sierra Madre.

PEN’s fall parent programs kick-off with “Choosing the Right Elementary School” on Tuesday, September 29 at 6:30 p.m. at All Saints Church, Sweetland Hall, 132 No. Euclid Avenue, Pasadena. Dr. Mikala Rahn, the president of Public Works, a non-profit organization that evaluates schools throughout the state, provides parents of pre-school aged children with valuable information about what to look for when evaluating an elementary school for their children. Parents whose children attend schools throughout PUSD will be available during a reception following the presentation.

PEN’s other grade transition programs include “Myth vs. Reality: Middle School Parent Panel” on October 14, “High School Options,” on November 4, and “Navigating Open Enrollment in the Pasadena Unified School District” on December 2. Complete program information, school information, and school tour schedules are available at www.penfamilies.org.

All programs are free. Spanish translation is available upon request. Please contact [email protected].

The Pasadena Education Network (PEN) is an independent, grassroots nonprofit organization that promotes family participation in public education to ensure a quality education for all students in Pasadena, Altadena and Sierra Madre. PEN provides services to help parents explore, evaluate, and engage with our community’s public schools. For more information visit www.penfamilies.org .