Children's Defense Fund’s Post

The California Community Schools Partnership Program (CCSPP) defines a Community School as any school serving pre-Kindergarten through high school students using a “whole-child” approach, with “an integrated focus on academics, health and social services, youth and community development, and community engagement.” As a school improvement strategy, community school initiatives enable the local education agency (LEA) and school to work closely with educators, students, and families to understand and address the unique needs, assets, and aspirations of the school community. Community schools then design their own curricula and programs to support the whole child and partner with community-based organizations (CBO) and local government agencies to align community resources to realize a shared vision for success. They improve student outcomes by addressing students’ academic, cognitive, physical, mental, and social-emotional needs. In addition to orchestrating governmental and community resources, community schools meet the needs of children and youth by building a positive school climate and trusting relationships, along with rich learning opportunities that prepare all students to succeed in college, career, and life. In order to address student, family and community needs, some community schools are open beyond the hours of the traditional school day for after school activities, which often include tutoring and enrichment activities for children, as well as workshops and community services. Many community schools operate year-round to serve both children and their families. Community schools are designed to intentionally and collaboratively address the economic and social barriers that are the underlying cause of the opportunity and achievement gaps. https://lnkd.in/gihy5NZr

Looking to partner with a local organization that serves middle and high school students We also offer trainings and speaking engagements to organizations covering: 1. Mind over Matter (Staying The course while overcoming obstacles) 2. College Readiness (Step by Step on how to prepare- adult&child) 3. Goal Setting (S.M.A.R.T goals) 4. Study Skills (How to effectively study) 5. Organizing School Work (best practices) 6. Scholarship Workshop (All about Scholarships: Where, how and when) 7. Importance of Community Building 8. ACT prep (What you need to know)- offered spring 2024. 9.Incorporating Youth Voice 10. Youth Programming - Best Engagement Practices

Not just black parents, but all parents want and should have the FREEDOM, financial freedom, to choose the education option that the parents consider better for their children (even if not actually better). The US Supreme Court provides parents with the fundamental constitutional right to make decisions for their children so long as NOT causing HARM (which means parents are not required to pass some "best" or "better" test to have the right to decide). Parents: consider NOT arguing that you know what is best for your children. You might, but, good news, you don't have to know! Those who claim you should not make decisions for your children are basing those arguments on false positions! Please like, follow, and subscribe to ParentsUSA across all social media and make a donation to this 501(c)(3) nonprofit so that it can do more for more parents and their children!

"But the pandemic also reminded the world of the importance of educators. In addition to being teachers, they are often caregivers, confidantes, advocates, artists, storytellers, coaches, resource providers, and professional sneaker lace tyers." #Educators and #Parents: This comprehensive educational #backtoschool booklet by Smithsonian Education and #USAToday is, "a guide for generations of lifelong learners, featuring memorable milestones in education, an array of activities and ties to today." The lessons and activities can be modified for younger or older learners. Plus, it prepares everyone involved in a child's education to assist them in today's rapidly changing world. https://lnkd.in/eKBhYeVU

Today is International Literacy Day, which serves as a reminder of the importance of literacy as a basic human right. In 2020, UNESCO reported that at least 763 million young people and adults lacked basic literacy skills. United Way of Racine County works to help our community address this issue. One way you can get involved is by applying to become a Schools of Hope tutor. This United Way-led initiative, in partnership with Racine Unified School District, provides young children with tutors on a regular basis to increase literacy in the early grades. #LiteracyDay Get involved: https://loom.ly/xEjMKZE

The Importance of Early Learning During the first five years of life, 90% of a child’s brain develops, forming the foundation for future learning. High-quality preschool gives children a strong start on the path that leads to college or a career. Research shows that all children benefit from high-quality preschool. Students who enter kindergarten having developed age appropriate social-emotional and educational skills have greater lifetime success. Both of our collaborating partners (United Way Suncoast and Community Foundation Tampa Bay) invest in the early-education programming which supports progress throughout the region. Examples include funding that helps sustain Thrive by Five Tampa Bay, United4Literacy Kits, The Big Plan and more.

According to Joyce L. Epstein, co-director of the Center on School, Family, and Community Partnerships at The Johns Hopkins University, family engagement is extremely important. "When children go to school, their families "attend" with them whether a teacher can "see" the parents or not. So, family engagement is ever-present in the life of a school", Joyce L. Epstein. "Parent involvement is a crucial factor in student academic success," and it is more critical for First-generation Latino families. We at Latino Education Advancement Fund put into practice this as the core of our values, mission and practice. "We empower first-generation Latino parents to learn, to be informed and to help their children to achieve their higher potential." Help Latino Education Advancement Fund continue with the work we started 6 years ago. How will you help? Baltimore City Public Schools Baltimore County Public Schools Howard County Public School System Prince George's County Public Schools Anne Arundel County Public Schools How will you collaborate with Latino Education Advancement Fund? How can we work together and exercise with actions Diversity, Inclusion and Equity?

We are celebrating Family Day in support of American Education Week!   Family and guardians taking active roles in their child’s education on a daily basis can be crucial for optimal success at school. Schools can ensure parents and caregivers are equipped with the information they need by establishing successful communication systems. Here are a few suggestions:   -Consider resource learning sessions that take place where families and caregivers congregate. -Meet at libraries, grocery stores, churches, or community centers. -Account for translation needs in diverse communities. -Offer community-centered restorative practices and events for families, community leaders, and school representatives. For example, set up an event with a dialogue facilitator on becoming comfortable having uncomfortable conversations.   What are some ways you have found communicating with families and guardians that has led to student success? #AEW2023

April Student Spotlight is now live! Read all about this remarkable young lady and how school choice changes lives. If your company owes Arizona income tax or premium tax, reach out to me to learn more about becoming a corporate champion with the Arizona Leadership Foundation #taxredirection #schoolchoice #scholarships #premiumtax

Learn more about the changes coming for Back-To-School!