Highline Public Schools has been awarded $475,000 from the Stuart Foundation for the second year of a three-year project. The grant funds community schools programs at 14 schools in White Center and SeaTac.

Community schools programs include academic support such as homework help, enrichment classes, and recreational opportunities for students, often after school. Community schools also coordinate family involvement programs and other services for students and their families at the school.

Highline partners with Community Schools Collaboration, a local non-profit organization, to manage community schools in the district. “We believe the collaborative community school effort between Highline and Community Schools Collaboration will positively impact students and families,” stated Rhonnel Sotelo, Vice President for Program & Operations at the Stuart Foundation. “It can inform and influence the educational practice of other districts and communities in Washington and beyond.” The Foundation funding pays for staff who are housed in the schools, as well as program costs.

A community school is both a place and a set of partnerships between the school and other community resources. Its integrated focus on academics, health and social services, youth and community development, and community engagement leads to improved student learning, stronger families and healthier communities. Using public schools as hubs, community schools bring together many partners to offer a range of support and opportunities to children, youth, families and communities.

“We are extremely grateful for the investment of the Stuart Foundation in our community schools programs,” says Highline Superintendent John Welch. “Community schools provide our students with academic support and enrichment opportunities that in effect extends the school day.”