Use Community Resource

School administrators and teachers always seek ways to create and foster partnerships. However, school budgets are getting smaller and smaller, so searching for additional resources is the norm these days. Schools need more money and services to improve the lives of their students. Did you know you can use community resources to enhance teaching and learning? Here are a few ideas of where to search for additional resources.

Parents and Community Members

One way to enhance teaching and learning is to use parents and community members as resources. Parental engagement is vital to a successful school. Sometimes, it isn’t easy to get parents to participate due to work schedules, childcare, and other obligations. However, welcome those parents who can join with open arms. 

Also, contact community members to volunteer or donate resources to your school. The school is a big part of the community it is located in, so developing relationships with your neighbors can reap excellent rewards.

Social Service Agencies

Another community resource to use is social service agencies. These agencies offer many different services that can benefit your students, parents, and staff members. Often, the institutions provide housing, mental health counseling, medical, or legal services. Many of the agencies want working relationships with schools. They see this as an opportunity to increase their outreach to community members.

Colleges and Universities

Colleges and universities are an important community resource for schools. Like social service agencies, higher education institutions want to build external relationships with schools and community members. Many colleges require students to participate in community service projects, and some college departments require students to fulfill internships. 

Internships

For example, students who major in social work must complete a counseling internship. If your students need social work services, an intern may be a way to fulfill the need without breaking the bank. Marketing majors must complete portfolios if you’re looking to market your school. Perhaps the marketing student can be the senior project. Think about these two examples because they are accessible to you. Of course, you may have other ideas, but this is a start.

Student Leaders and Community Service

Another helpful example is that in some states, high school students are required to do community service. Your school and students are a part of the community! Recruit some high school students to become tutors for after-school or extracurricular programs.

Contact the local high school to get more information about the community service requirements for students. Also, don’t forget about your student leaders. If you have a student council, give the kids a fundraising project.

Small Business

Small businesses can provide some additional resources, too. Many small business owners are willing to help your school. Sometimes, they’re eager to donate school or office supplies. They can provide raffle gifts for special events. They may also offer the staff or parents an appreciation breakfast or lunch. Many times, a small business will sponsor an event or sports team. Every act of kindness or donation helps.

Senior Citizens

Don’t forget about retired or senior members of the community. Senior Citizens are very giving of their time. They will volunteer in your school by helping teachers in the classroom, tutoring students, or helping in the main office. Most cities or states have a Department of Aging. This agency may be able to give you the contact information of retirement homes or groups you can speak with regarding volunteering.

Local Churches

Lastly, another resource is local churches. Congregations have a spirit of giving. There is an organization in Chicago called One Church One School. This group supports churches in developing relationships with local schools. Church members are willing to do coat drives, food drives, school supply giveaways, and more. Research the names of nearby churches. Then, call the church office or ministerial staff for more information.

Conclusion

Use community resources to support teaching and learning. It is a beautiful way to develop external partnerships and additional relationships. Think of your school as the hub of the community and connect to people, businesses, agencies, and organizations who believe in passing it forward. List possible partnerships or projects to recruit or solicit support from the various community resources. Many are willing to assist, but you have to ask. 

Additional Resources
The Handbook on Family and Community Engagement
http://www.schoolcommunitynetwork.org/downloads/FACEHandbook.pdf

One Church One School
http://www.onechurchoneschool.org/

Resources for Building Community Partnerships, Edutopia
https://www.edutopia.org/article/community-business-partnerships-resources

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