Community schools are gaining momentum in New Jersey as advocates push for a comprehensive approach to combat chronic absenteeism. During a recent meeting of the Joint Committee on the Public Schools, discussions highlighted the critical role of community schools in addressing the root causes of absenteeism, particularly poverty-related issues such as food and housing insecurity.

Key speaker Dr. Linda Darling-Hammond, president of the California State Board of Education, shared insights from her organization’s successful initiative that secured $4 billion to transform Title I schools into community schools in California. This model emphasizes the importance of dedicated personnel to manage resources and support for students and families, aiming to create a more conducive learning environment.

The meeting underscored the necessity of engaging families and fostering student connections to enhance school attendance. Strategies discussed included promoting family engagement beyond traditional parent-teacher meetings and encouraging student participation in extracurricular activities to build a sense of belonging.

The committee recognized that addressing chronic absenteeism requires a multifaceted approach, including partnerships with healthcare organizations and community safety initiatives. By investing in relevant and engaging learning experiences, New Jersey aims to create a supportive network that not only helps students thrive academically but also addresses their overall well-being.

As New Jersey moves forward with these initiatives, the focus remains on leveraging community resources to ensure that every student has the opportunity to succeed, regardless of their circumstances.