Parents discovered ways to advocate for their children’s education at the Staten Island Family Partnership Summit held at PS 20 on Staten Island. The Nov. 9 event drew more than 80 participants who attended plenary sessions about online student safety and special education resources in the morning and a host of workshops and an exhibit fair in the afternoon. “The parents who attended were very engaged, had lots of questions and participated fully,” said UFT Staten Island Parent and Community Outreach Liaison Marie Rodriguez, the event organizer. “One of the best aspects of the summit is the opportunity to enjoy one-on-one interaction with parents and community members.” While the parents learned skills, their children did crafts and played under the supervision of volunteers, including retired teacher Trish Mezzacappa. “The summit is a great way to build community,” said Mezzacappa, who assists at the event each year. “While the parents learn, the kids get to have fun. It’s a wonderful day for everyone.”