Download: Flyer 4 Practices That Build Meaningful School-Community Partnerships
MAEC’s Foundations of Systems Change series shares what we’ve learned from more than three decades of working with schools and districts across the United States. Drawing from our research, experiences, and partnerships, this series highlights how school communities can create systems where every student has the opportunity to thrive. See also:
- Building the Conditions for K-12 Transformation
- Breaking Down Barriers to Effective K-12 Leadership
- The Skills of Leaders Who Create Lasting Change
Practices That Build Meaningful School–Community Partnerships
We know that partnerships between schools and communities are essential for student success. We also know that many communities run into obstacles when they try to build authentic, meaningful collaboration. The bullets below outlines challenges we repeatedly witness, and practices that lead to stronger, lasting partnerships between schools and communities.
Moving from common challenges to strong practices:
- Common challenge: The district does not understand community needs or how to meet them.
- Strong practice: Engage in transparent discussions of needs and priorities.
- Common challenge: Family engagement is treated as a one-time activity or add-on.
- Strong practice: Embed family engagement into school and district systems.
- Common challenge: There is mistrust between schools and communities.
- Strong practice: Develop trust through consistent, meaningful relationship-building.
- Common challenge: The district views community organizations as “outsiders.”
- Strong practice: Recognize organizations as partners and allies.
- Common challenge: There are limited resources (including people, time, and money).
- Strong practice: Invest in resources that sustain partnership work.
MAEC can partner with your district to put these stronger practices into action.
We provide professional development, coaching, and strategic planning that help schools and communities thrive together. Contact info@maec.org to learn more.
