City of Philadelphia

Community Schools are a partnership between the City of Philadelphia, the School District of Philadelphia, and school communities to remove barriers to learning and support the success of each student.

The long-term goal of Community Schools is to ensure that every student graduates college-, career-, and community-ready - and that communities are healthy, safe, hopeful, and supportive.

In each Community School, a Community School Coordinator supports strategic partnerships and programs that promote wellness, stability, and learning opportunities for students, families, and neighbors.

There are currently 17 City-designated Community Schools, serving nearly 10,000 students. Community Schools are supported by the Philadelphia Beverage Tax.

Areas of work

Philadelphia Community Schools focus on:

• School climate: School events, resource fairs, and attendance supports
• Authentic family and community engagement: Arts and culture events, adult education classes, and parent cafes
• Integrated health and social services: Food distribution, clothing closets, backpack drives, and student/family connection to behavioral health services and other supports
• Expanded learning time and opportunities: Quality out-of-school time programs, youth summer employment, and career exploration