Community schools operate the same way as other HCPSS schools, with additional focus on expanded learning opportunities; health and social supports and services; family and community engagement; and early childhood development. Programs and services vary school-to-school based on local needs and goals established by a school site community school team inclusive of all community voices.
During Year One as a Community School, each site completes a needs assessment designed to determine what assets exist, what needs exist, and what stakeholders want from a community school. A steering committee is formed as a strategy for the participation of caregivers, community members, teachers, administration, other school staff, AND students in making decisions about the Community School.
During Year Two, schools develop a 3-5 year implementation plan that is driven by the results of the needs assessment. The implementation plan is developed with a diverse group of interest holders, including staff, families, community partners, and students. The plan will include goals that articulate what community schools want to achieve; activities and wraparound service(s) that the community school will offer to meet the proposed goals; timelines and responsibilities; and, outcomes and indicators to help the school know if the goal(s) are achieved.
During Year Three and beyond, schools are engaged and focused on implementing identified goals from the plan.