Real Solutions for Kids and Communities: Community Schools

Community schools make a difference in the lives of children, families, educators and their communities each and every day. By moving beyond the normal confines of the school and partnering with local stakeholders, community schools provide real solutions to the unique problems of the students and families they serve, and are another major step forward in reclaiming the promise of public education.

Community schools aren’t just centers of education; they’re the new heart of the community itself that help create better conditions for both teaching and learning. They’re a place where teachers, families, community members and service providers can come together in coordinated, purposeful and results-focused partnerships. These schools become the center of their communities by providing the services to students, families and neighbors that best serve their needs, while at the same time promoting stable, healthy neighborhoods. This isn’t just another program: It’s a paradigm shift in the way we think about schools that goes well beyond just providing supports and services for students.

Blogs and Articles

Art by First Nations artist Bruce Beardy, commissioned by the Ontario College of Teachers to illustrate the Ethical Standards of Practice for the Teaching Profession — Trust.

Building community across the miles

One of the things I love about my small northern Minnesota community is that we look out for each other. I can’t count the number of people who checked in at the school before the holidays to be sure all our families had food and other necessities over the break.

Community schools feed families, keep connections alive during pandemic

The first two weeks of March went on as any others. Our plans for ribbon cuttings at three new schools were underway, thanks to the AFT Innovation Fund — which had already helped us expand our community school efforts several years back.

Community schools: From inspiration to actuality

We know that children are more likely to thrive at community schools with wraparound services like food banks, social workers and healthcare—but more importantly, with caring relationships among families, educators and staff.

Community schools succeed from the grassroots up

On Saturday four AFT leaders shared their experiences growing community schools, each zealously advocating for these hubs where services such as healthcare, food pantries, housing assistance and more are available, ensuring students’ basic needs are met so that they can focus on learning. “This is pretty much the most important educational and social strategy that we can have that will help kids thrive,” said AFT President Randi Weingarten.