Step 4: Reach out the Principal

1. Understand the mission

Before reaching out, take time to understand what the Saint Carlo Parent Network (SCPN) is:

• A parent-led, school-supported community to help families thoughtfully navigate digital technology and childhood.
• Focused on awareness, connection, and support, not judgment or one-size-fits-all solutions.
• Inspired by Saint Carlo Acutis, who used technology for good while modeling the importance of healthy boundaries.

☑ Pro Tip: Be ready to explain that SCPN is not a policy initiative, curriculum change, or a demand for school-wide tech restrictions. It’s an optional, relational resource for parents. Schools appreciate clarity!

2. Decide who to approach first

• Start with the Principal.
  Always go to the school principal first before the PTO, school board, or other bodies. The principal sets the tone for parent initiatives.
• Respect the Chain of Communication.
  If the school has a “PTO first” culture, the principal will guide you there. Trust their advice.

☑ Pro Tip: A short, respectful email is a great first step. See sample wording below.

3. How to frame the conversation

When you approach the principal:

• Be collaborative, not confrontational.
  (“We would love to support families by…”)
• Emphasize that this is parent-led with school support.
  Principals are busy. Make clear you’re not asking the school to run or fund the group.
• Focus on community and positivity.
  Avoid framing it as “fixing” a problem at school.
• Offer examples.
  Mention ideas like a parent book club, Advent “unplug” challenges, promoting the Wait Until 8th pledge — simple, supportive events that enrich family life.

4. Sample email to principal

Subject: Request to Start a Saint Carlo Parent Network Chapter

Dear [Principal’s Name],

I hope you are doing well! I am reaching out because I recently learned about the Saint Carlo Parent Network, a parent-driven initiative designed to build community and foster thoughtful conversations about raising children in a digital world.

I would love to explore the possibility of starting a chapter here at [School Name]. The goal would be to create a supportive, voluntary parent community — not to change school policies — but simply to connect and equip families.

I’d be happy to take the lead, organize volunteers, and ensure that it complements the school’s mission. Could we schedule a brief meeting to discuss this idea and how best to proceed?

Thank you for considering it!

[Your Name]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email]

5. If the principal doesn’t respond or isn’t supportive

• Don’t take it personally.
  Principals are flooded with requests. Give it 1-2 weeks, then send a short, polite follow-up email.
• Offer flexibility.
  Ask if a future time might be better, or if another administrator (assistant principal, counselor, PTO leader) could serve as the liaison.
• Stay positive.
  If the answer is no for now, you can still build a parent community informally — gathering friends, sharing resources, and praying for open doors later.
  Trust the Holy Spirit’s timing.

6. Final tips

• Be organized.
  Principals love clear proposals. Offer a one-page overview if you can (I can help draft one if needed!).
• Honor the school’s culture.
  If your school is busy with big events (e.g., accreditation visits, fundraising drives), acknowledge that and suggest a “soft launch” like a simple parent coffee event.
• Pray before you go.
  Saint Carlo Acutis knew technology was a tool — but God is the Master. Let prayer, humility, and joy lead your conversations.