Schools in NYC today must be more than just a place to learn math and reading. When students are affected by homelessness, hunger, domestic violence, and other challenges that impact their ability to learn, they need comprehensive support. That is where the community school model enters. With a holistic approach, Rising Ground partners with school leadership at JHS 123 – The Bronx Urban Community Magnet School, JHS 022 – Jordan L. Mott, and P.S. 195 in The Bronx to help students and their families with challenges that teachers and school administrators don’t have the capacity or tools to address.
The community school model is based on the understanding that an integrated focus on academics, health and mental health services, social services, expanded after-school and summer learning opportunities, positive youth development, and family and community supports are critical to improving student achievement. Under the guidance of our trained social workers and support staff, who are on site at the schools daily, all of these elements become part of the core function of the school. We also promote and support parent and community engagement. Each community school serves as a hub where partners come together to coordinate and integrate a full range of supports to make students, families, and communities stronger.