The California Department of Education (CDE) Community Schools Partnership Program 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 educational 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.”
An evaluation of 20 initiatives nationwide shows that community schools have a positive impact on what matters most to students, parents, communities and schools. The report concludes that:
Student learning improves
Parent and family participation – in their children’s education and in the school – increases
Principals and teachers have more time for quality instruction because the school’s community partners help address non‐academic barriers to learning
Families have more opportunities and support in caring for and helping to educate their children, and in contributing to their community.
Community schools generate other positive outcomes as well. Improved safety and security, increased community pride, stronger relationships between school and community, and greater utilization of schools and other public services and facilities all reflect the broader “community building” role of community schools. Community schools and their students are seen as valued resources, and communities own accountability for student success.
Esparto Unified School District (Needs & Assets Reports)
Esparto Elementary School: Esparto Elementary School CCSPP Implementation Plan
Esparto Middle School: Esparto Middle School CCSPP Implementation Plan
Esparto High School: Esparto High School CCSPP Implementation Plan
Community Schools Resources
California Department of Education (CDE) Community Schools Partnership Program
CDE FAQs
California Partnership for the Future of Learning Community Schools Toolkit
EUSD was Awarded a Community Schools Planning Grant (2022-2028) .
EUSD will be submitting an application for the Implementation Grant in 22-23 Academic Year!
Implementation grants are for new community schools, or for the expansion or continuation of existing community schools. Implementation Grant funding ranges from $100,000-$500,000/year per school (depending on school enrollment) for 5 years for districts that already have community schools.
For more information visit: www.communityschools.org