Marieke Boon: “The many improvements around parents’ situations are a big success”.

Marieke Boon: “The many improvements around parents’ situations are a big success”.

Ouders & Onderwijs owes its name partly to Marieke Boon. When she started at the organization, it was still called the Landelijke Ouderraad. Ten years later, not only the name has changed, but also the way it makes a difference. One thing has stayed the same: her passion for an equal education system. Meet theme adviser Tailored Education, Marieke Boon.

“I started as a communication adviser. My first task was to come up with a new name and corporate identity for the Landelijke Ouderraad. After my illness period, I became theme adviser for Tailored Education. Besides setting up the national parent panel, this is the most enjoyable role I have had so far.

Parent interests

At Ouders & Onderwijs I set up projects, became deputy director and represented parents’ interests on several topics, such as school participation council and education quality.

Critical note

The best part of my work is working together and collaborating with others. I also like to use the strengths of others to reach a goal together. In my role, it is important to influence and guide people. I give a critical note and help them to go in the right direction. We look at the possibilities together and work on change. I also help parents and pupils further to hopefully improve their situation. I do this both individually and as a team.

Successes

I am proud of where we are now as an organization, and that in 10 years! That is a great achievement we have reached together. The Tailored Education improvement agenda stands out. Especially the many improvements around parents’ situations, such as the parent and youth support points, more attention for reports to Veilig Thuis and extra support for parents, are a big success.

Goals

The themes on the agenda for the coming years are clear. We will look at the national standard for basic support, pupil transport, (digital) distance education and education at other locations and for children staying at home. And of course not to forget: compulsory education, absenteeism and inclusive education. I will not get bored in the coming years!

In honor of our 10th anniversary, Ouders & Onderwijs introduces some of our team members in this series. Keep an eye on our anniversary page and social media to meet more faces behind the voices on the phone.