you immediately recognize that it's a special place. That's because it is more
than a school -- it also is a set of
deliberate partnerships that provide the supports and opportunities that are important to students, families and the surrounding community. Community partners can include health and social service agencies, family support groups, institutions of higher education, youth development organizations, government, community groups, or others -- but they all are organized around a common goal: To create the conditions necessary for all children to learn at their best.
If you visit a community school when classes are in session, you'll notice that students and their teachers are actively engaged in learning. Because children can receive on-site services important to their mental and physical well-being, they arrive in class alert and ready to learn.Teachers draw on the community its resources and its challenges -- to create rich learning experiences that excite students and align with curriculum and standards.
If you visit outside of traditional school hours, you'll notice something else unusual: The school continues to be busy and alive with learning, all day, everyday. Children and youth participate in after-school academic and enrichment programs, receive tutoring or mentoring, and take part in community service learning opportunities -- all connected to the school day. Adults brush up on parenting and job skills, learn English, receive family counseling or come together to address community problems.
Now, step outside the building and see how it lights up the community -- both literally and in spirit. Because the building is in constant use, the neighborhood is more active and more likely to be safe. Because children and families are succeeding, the community shares an understandable pride.
Our vision of community schools is not just a
pretty picture. It already is making the difference in hundreds of cities and towns across America.