Part VII - Conclusion

In looking back at my original questions, I can now attempt to answer them based on my observations.
What is the role of education, as provided by the state?
The parents that I have met and spoken to truly believe in the school system, and trust that the educators and Ministry of Education know what is best. They see the French educational system as successful, producing students who go on to successful university careers and beyond. A comment that has been made by more than one parent, is that they do feel that French schools need to start focusing a bit more on the future. While they are proud of the history and philosophy courses their children are required to take, they would like to see more courses in technology and world economics. I personally have no insight to French high schools and what is being taught, but this feeling of shifting the curriculum to be more "future" focused is a recurring theme.
What is the role of the parents in their children’s education?
While parents are not necessarily allowed in the classroom, they still feel they must play an active role in their child's education. They communicate with the teacher when necessary, and each night parents much initial that their child completed their homework. As the parents I know have kids who are learning to read, I know they spend a considerable amount of time each night working with their children on homework and helping them to become successful readers. There is also French version of the PTA, and it is very strong here in Marseille. At my daughter's school they just held elections for this group, and there were many parents "running" for a position. So while the classroom may be closed off, the parents are still very involved in other ways.
What is the role of the teacher?
As I mentioned before, the parents trust the teacher to follow the national curriculum and to communicate if there is a problem. The teachers have some pretty strict rules to follow from the Ministry of Education. Last week there was a national teachers strike, as the Ministry of Education is increasing what needs to be taught, yet last year did away with Saturday classes and reduced the number of hours in the week. Teachers are public sector workers, and therefore strikes occur occasionally.
What are their thoughts on outside activities, like dance, sports, music?
Parents believe very strongly in raising a child who is good at something outside of school. Many of the 6 year old friends of my daughter take very serious lessons is everything from musical instruments, music theory, classical ballet, and choir. I have learned that the parents also took many classes as children, and continue as adults to practice their "hobbies." Some of the moms I know are accomplished musicians, take adult ballet and sing in local choirs.
There is not a lot offered here in terms of sports for kids, other than martial arts. Interestingly, in a country where soccer is a religion (at least in Marseille), there do not seem to be soccer clubs for little kids here. My daughter played soccer in Ithaca, and was hoping to play here. But I was told it's not that common, and if you can find a club it certainly will not be for girls.
Implications for me as an educator?
As a future educator, these observations have provided me with another perspective on educational systems outside the US, and invaluable insight into life in the French classroom. I have seen different styles of teaching, different perspectives on the role of the teacher, and realized that parental involvement can take many forms. I still dream of universal preschool someday in the United States, and think educators and policy makers can learn a lot from the French school system.

Final thoughts:
I am grateful everyday to have this opportunity to live in another country, to introduce my children to another language and culture, and to experience a taste of French life. While it may be brief, and this school year will go quickly, the lessons will last a lifetime. In the end, French parents and American parents are like all parents around the world - we all want the very best for our children.