Knowledge From the Field

Connecting Schools, Families, and Communities: Stories and Results from the Annie E. Casey Foundation's Education Investments

Published: February 2007

Publisher(s): Annie E. Casey Foundation

Author(s): Jehl, Jeanne

Funder(s): Annie E. Casey Foundation

View Report (26 pages; 231KB; PDF)

Area of focus: Low-Performing Schools

Abstract

Describes the Annie E. Casey Foundation’s motivation for community-oriented educational grantmaking. The report includes summaries of seven Annie E. Casey-funded programs that focus on tying educational improvement to the communities in which they are located, with specific results cited. The education initiatives include funding for charter schools, community centers, scholarships for school choice, and programs supporting students with disabilities. The report outlines the benefits of partnerships among schools and community organizations based on the results of Casey initiatives.

Key Findings and/or Recommendations

= Partnerships between schools and community-based organizations show evidence of their capacity to: strengthen schools, improve transitions for young people across developmental levels and learning environments, build the capacity of parents and community organization staff to support young people’s healthy development, prepare young people for success in postsecondary education and life, and strengthen neighborhoods and whole communities.

Geographic Focus: National (Washington, DC; Moorestown, NJ; Philadelphia, PA; New York City, NY; Indianapolis, IN; Atlanta, GA)

Subjects/Keywords: Low-performing schools; school reform; community; family

+ Successful strategy
= Observation
– Challenge