A community school is both a place and a set of partnerships between the school and other community resources. Its integrated focus on academics, services, supports and opportunities leads to improved student learning, stronger families and healthier communities. Schools alone cannot address all of the challenges of closing the achievement gap and educating all students at high levels. We must develop creative partnerships and collaborate to bring community resources to our schools. A comprehensive, communitywide approach to meeting the needs of the whole child could potentially make a significant impact on students’ educational outcomes and help close the achievement gap among student populations. The creation of “community schools” is a growing trend that is designed to support student achievement through service-based interventions, expanded learning time models and increased community engagement.

The California Community Schools Forum is a place for education leaders, school site staff and the community to discuss the hopes, challenges and successes of partnership on behalf of children, families and entire communities.

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