Issue link: http://educator.cta.org/i/740763
I f students have a to othach e, a h ead ach e or a mental health crisis at Coliseum College Prep Academy (C CPA), they don't need to suf fer in si l en c e or l eave sch o o l to get h elp. Th e y can walk across the Oakland campus and visit the school's health clinic for assistance. If a parent needs help with putting food on the table, finding affordable housing, or learning English, they can receive it at the school's Family Resource Center. CCPA is a "community school," which offers a dif- ferent approach to learning by taking the whole child and their family into account. In addition to academics, community schools feature wraparound services such as food pantries, health and dental clinics, mental health services, after-school tutoring, and classes for parents. It's an educational model being embraced by an increasing number of districts nationwide as a way to help foster success in the classroom, particularly in low-income areas. "It's a place where I feel totally supported ," says Gil Lopez, a sophomore at CCPA. "I don't think other schools provide the support system we have here, where there is everything you need to help you succeed." Sophomore Mary Meza received free glasses from the Caring for the Whole Child Community schools meet the many needs of students, families and the communities around them By Sherry Posnick-Goodwin Photo by Kim Sanford 16 cta.org FEATURE