While Free To Grow's prevention approach is not curricular, schools are nonetheless mandated partners in the program's work. Why? From the initiative's perspective, schools provide critical access to the families of young children. They have the capacity to engage families in self and community efficacy activities on behalf of their children's healthy development. Schools can also provide an opportunity to establish a continuum of support for families who have received support through Head Start, home visiting and other early intervention programs in the community. This support can be critical for addressing family barriers to learning such as mental health, substance abuse or family violence issues.

A growing number of comprehensive school reform efforts recognize the potential role that schools can have in supporting families and transforming communities.

The resources and strategies compiled in this section include materials that can help you make the most of your collaborative efforts with schools.

Click below for additional information and resources.

Other Helpful Info


Clarifying the Concept of Family and Community Connections

Two new mental models for schools and their implications for principals' roles, responsibilities and preparation

Building More Effective Community Schools

Creating collaborative action teams

Schools Strategies

General   National Center for Family and Community Connections with Schools Mental Health   The National Center for Mental Health in Schools

Schools / Education   Institute for Educational Leadership   Coalition for Community Schools