IN Keystone Oaks Fall 2017 | Page 19

Education of simply lecturing. This is exceedingly helpful in the matter of virtual learning. Instead of teachers working through chat, they have the opportunity to talk directly to their students, allowing for a more personalized experience for online learning. pursue both academic and non- academic success by enhanced opportunities to learn and grow. • College, Career and Citizenship COMMUNITY SCHOOLS The idea of community schools was born with the thought of a school becoming the center of a community, instead of just a place located within it. A community school is built on partnerships between schools and other community resources and focuses on academics, social services, and youth and community development with the goal of being a hub for students, teachers, parents and community leaders to come together to provide support and opportunities to one another. • COMMUNITY SCHOOLS OFFER: • Engaging Instruction – Community schools provide real-world learning and problem solving opportunities for students both within and outside of the classroom. Instruction goes beyond the teachers, encouraging students to engage with community leaders, local businesses and other public organizations. • Expanded Learning Opportunities – Community schools, which are typically open 24/7/365, offer and encourage students to • – Whether this is readiness for college, technical school, or simply to enter the workforce, community schools focus on ensuring that students are comfortable and confident after graduation to become engaged members of society. • Health and Social Support – A strong community starts with healthy members. Ensuring mental and physical well- being is a high priority in community schools. Community Engagement – Community schools are run by a collective number of teachers, community organizations and other stakeholders that monitor and grow the well-being of the entire community. Early Childhood Development – Community schools focus on ensuring that high-quality early learners enter school with confidence and readiness to learn. • Family Engagement – Community schools offer critical support for family growth and development through activities to increase family engagement. • Youth Development Activities – Students are given the opportunity to engage in hobbies outside of the classroom for the chance to find out what makes them excited to learn. Continued on next page > Keystone Oaks | Fall 2017 | icmags.com 17