Full-Service Community Schools: Creating New Institutions

Author: Dryfoos, J.
Publisher: Phi Delta Kappa
Publication Date: 2002, January
Journal: Phi Delta Kappan
Journal Volume: 83(5)
Pages: 393-399
Full text available online at: http://www.pdkintl.org/kappan/kappan.htm
Available for purchase online at: http://www.corwinpress.com/book.aspx?pid=7421

Abstract (written by WestEd)

Full-service community schools offer a combination of typical academic classes and support services, such as health and social services, that help children and their families overcome barriers to learning. "A community school is open to students, families, and the community before, during, and after school, seven days a week, all year long. It is jointly operated and financed through a partnership between the school system and one or more community agencies." A variety of community members work together to make the school a child-centered institution. "A community school encourages student learning through community service and service learning."

Thirty-six of the 49 programs with evaluation reports the author reviewed indicated academic gains, especially for high-risk students and those who attended extended-day sessions. Eleven studies reported a reduction in suspensions.