Community Schools Program transforms student lives through dental care and parental coaching

In a recent workshop meeting held by the Berkeley County Board of Education, a poignant story emerged that highlighted the profound impact of community support on students' lives. The meeting, which took place on April 3, 2025, featured discussions centered around the importance of attendance, discipline, and the role of community schools in fostering student well-being.

One of the key speakers, a former assistant principal at Orchard View, shared a compelling narrative about a student whose life was transformed through the support of a community schools coordinator. The student, now a senior, recounted how a childhood accident had left him with dental issues that affected his self-esteem and social interactions throughout his school years. Thanks to the intervention of the community schools program, he received free reconstructive dental surgery, allowing him to smile confidently for the first time. "For the first time in my life, I feel like I could smile," he expressed, underscoring the emotional weight of his experience.

This story resonated deeply with the attendees, emphasizing the critical role that caring adults play in the lives of at-risk students. The speaker noted that many students benefit from having at least one supportive figure who takes a genuine interest in their well-being. The community schools initiative not only addresses academic challenges but also provides essential resources for families, helping them establish healthy routines at home.

The discussion also touched on the need for sustained commitment to these programs. As the speaker pointed out, maintaining such initiatives requires prioritization and long-term planning. The board acknowledged the importance of integrating community support with existing school resources, such as counselors and social workers, to ensure that students receive comprehensive care.

As the meeting concluded, there was a shared sense of urgency among board members to continue advocating for these vital programs. The stories shared during the workshop served as a reminder of the tangible difference that community involvement can make in the lives of students, reinforcing the idea that education extends beyond the classroom and into the heart of the community.