We are a teacher-inspired nonprofit transforming education through our proven community school model.
We operate the largest network of community schools in New York City, and we help schools everywhere implement our proven approach through consulting, professional development, training, workshops, and support materials.
We were created by—and are still part of—the United Federation of Teachers, one of the largest and longest operating teacher unions in the nation. We were conceived by teachers who understood that students cannot reach their full potential if their stomachs are empty, they cannot see the board, they cannot hear the teacher, or they are preoccupied with problems outside the classroom.
Our community school model connects the entire school—students, teachers, principals, and counselors—to the entire community—parents, caregivers, non-profits, local businesses, and government agencies—to address the educational, emotional, social, and health issues that can stand in the way of learning. Our on-site community school directors marshal the expertise, energy, and resources of carefully selected community organizations, from food banks to healthcare providers to after school programs, based on the needs of their individual school.
Together, we help to ensure that all students are prepared to reach their full potential in the classroom…and in life. That’s what happens when we are united as one community, with a shared vision and commitment, to make our schools and our children everything they can be.
The reality of smarter, happier, healthier students is within our grasp.
OUR VISION
To create equitable schools that foster scholar success and community growth.
OUR MISSION
An educator inspired initiative collaborating with the school community, families and partners, to strategically transform schools to cultivate whole, healthy and thriving scholars.
The reality of smarter, happier, healthier students is within your grasp, too.
Our network of community schools is an engine of innovation that enables us to identify and test best practices, determine what types of partnerships provide the greatest returns, and uncover and refine essential factors for operating a successful community school.
We proudly offer access to this deep well of community school expertise, best practices, and support materials in-person at our Manhattan headquarters, on-site at your location, or remotely through email, phone, and video conferencing.
Share our story with others.
Know a school that can benefit from our consulting? A community-based organization that can support our schools? A passionate individual capable of marshaling resources as a community school director? Share our brochure with them.