Community Schools that value and support the whole child

Community schools as a school transformation intervention requires commitment for sustainable investment and an embracing approach of public schools, in stark contrast with current deficit and austerity narratives. Our schools are communities, and when our communities struggle, we all pitch in to make it better. From Oklahoma to California, and from Cincinnati to New York City to our neighbors in Pawtucket, this model has demonstrated success in closing achievement gaps, increas

Some elements of Community Schools:

1. Implementing a school needs and assets assessment.
2. Creating collaborative decision-making structures with parents, students and educators.
3. Transforming school culture with a high-quality curriculum and relevant, embedded professional development.
4. Investing in school-based, not for profit wraparound services to support the whole child and family. Examples from around the country range from on-site dental, eye and mental health services to housing assistance and citizenship clinics, among other family supports.