Few programs have proven as successful as the Full Service Community Schools Program at providing holistic support to students and their families to increase positive academic outcomes. The Coalition for Community Schools advocates for funding and resources to support Full Service Community Schools and have called on policymakers in Congress to consider an even bolder commitment for this proven model in the 2025 budget allocations.
The Power of Full-Service Community Schools
Community schools are more than just educational facilities; they are hubs of comprehensive support. These schools integrate academic, social, and health services provided by partners to address the multifaceted needs of students, families, and communities. Community schools are more than their partnerships. They are founded on a community-wide needs assesment to first determine the community’s priorities. Then, partnerships are developed to fill those needs. By fostering collaboration between schools and local resources, community schools create a meaningful ecosystem where every child can thrive.
Evidence-Based Success
The FY 2023 Full-Service Community School request for proposals saw over 400 communities express interest, continuing a three-year trend of increasing demand. This surge underscores the efficacy of community schools as an evidence-based strategy. Leaders nationwide recognize that community schools play an important role in helping students achieve academically, regardless of their background or zip code.
Investment with High Returns
Investing in community schools is smart fiscal policy. Coordinating resources at the school and system levels yields impressive results. For example, for every $1 invested in a community school coordinator’s salary, the return on investment exceeds $7. This efficient use of funds ensures that students receive the support they need to succeed academically and beyond.
Addressing Urgent Needs
Community schools tackle urgent societal challenges head-on. With 20 million children ages 3-17 reporting at least one mental health concern, community schools provide essential mental health services. Additionally, they support the 12.5% of children experiencing food insecurity and offer aid to the 81,000 families and youth facing homelessness. By addressing these critical needs, community schools contribute to stronger, healthier communities.
A Call to Action
As Congress develops the 2025 appropriations bill, we must prioritize the future of our students and the economic health of our communities. The Coalition for Community Schools, along with other organizations like the Alliance for Public Schools, encourages funding the Full Service Community Schools Program at $443 million, without cuts to other education programs. By doing so, we can reinvigorate education and economic efforts in urban and rural communities, ensuring that every child has the opportunity to thrive and building a brighter future for us all.
Quickly send an email to your U.S. Senators and urge them to fund Full Service Community Schools today. Then, share it with your friends.
To learn more about the Alliance’s work to promote Full Service Community Schools, reach out to us at info@all4schools.org.
