As the needs of students grow more complex and communities seek long-term solutions to support young people and families, one model continues to prove its value: Community Schools. But what makes this model work—and more importantly, how can schools implement it sustainably?

In a recent webinar focused on strengthening school-community connections, education leaders unpacked the four key pillars that drive success in the Community Schools approach. These aren’t just best practices—they're foundational strategies for building a school that truly serves the whole child and whole community.

Pillar 1: Collaborative Leadership

Real change begins with shared ownership.

Students and families can't benefit from decisions they're not part of. Collaborative leadership means bringing together school staff, community members, families, and students to co-create plans, drive decisions, and work toward common goals.

One powerful strategy: build cross-role leadership teams—ones that span school psychologists, teacher leaders, site coordinators, parents, and even students. These teams foster shared understanding and ensure diverse voices shape the path forward. The result? More relevant initiatives, stronger buy-in, and lasting impact.

“Bringing families and students to the table—whether it’s through school health advisory councils or board-level planning—enhances decisions and builds immediate investment.”

Pillar 2: Integrated Student Support 

Support only matters if students can access it.

From mental health care to food security, many of the challenges students face happen outside the classroom—and those challenges directly affect their learning. Community Schools make support visible, accessible, and proactive by integrating wraparound services into the school day.

These supports can include:

• On-site mental health services
• Family basic needs assistance
• Attendance interventions
• Partnerships with food banks, clinics, and housing resources

And it’s not just about reacting. Effective schools use data to predict and respond to needs—ensuring no student falls through the cracks.

Pillar 3: Expanded Learning Time

Learning doesn’t stop when the bell rings.

Extended learning opportunities—before school, after school, weekends, and summer—are vital for student growth and family support. Whether it’s tutoring, sports, or STEM programs, community schools create access to enriching environments that build academic skills, boost social-emotional development, and reduce risk factors.

One especially powerful idea discussed in the webinar was integrated sports—programs designed for inclusive participation among all students. The outcome? Greater connection, belonging, and joy for everyone involved.

“Parents still talk about how much that program meant to their kids. It built friendships, family engagement, and confidence that lasted well beyond the season.”

Pillar 4: Active Family & Community Engagement

Partnerships matter—but only when families feel truly included.

This pillar is about more than sending flyers home. It’s about co-creating solutions and building trust. Schools that succeed in family engagement offer culturally responsive communication, flexible meeting times, and invite caregivers to actively participate in planning, decision-making, and programming.

Strategies include:

• Home visit programs
• Shared leadership on advisory boards
• Culturally affirming events
• Transparent data-sharing and reflection sessions

When families feel seen, heard, and valued, they become powerful allies in supporting student success.

Putting It All Together

The four pillars aren’t isolated practices—they’re interconnected. When aligned, they form a web of support that strengthens student achievement, boosts family trust, and builds community well-being.

Here’s how schools can start:

1. Create a collaborative leadership team including students, families, and community partners.
2. Assess service and support needs aligned with the four pillars.
3. Research local partnerships to fill gaps and extend capacity.
4. Develop an action plan to integrate the pillars system-wide.

“It’s a system, not a set of programs. Success depends on alignment and intentional implementation.”

Ready to Build a Sustainable Community School?

We’re here to help. CharacterStrong offers resources and coaching to support implementation of the community schools model. Book a call with our team to start your journey toward sustainable, whole-child support.