When our Seattle Community "Thrives", we tend to Flourish, do well, be Successful, be Healthy, and Strong.
The Thriving Center
Community Engagement
Are you ready to make a difference in your child's education and our school community? Seattle Public Schools believes that building a strong partnership between schools and families is essential for student success. Our Community Engagement initiatives aim to empower parents, families, students, teachers, and the broader community to have a meaningful say in decisions that impact our schools and neighborhoods. Join us in creating a thriving educational environment by getting involved. Learn more about how you can be a part of our community engagement efforts here.
At Seattle Public Schools, we believe in the power of community involvement and the importance of collaborative decision-making. Our Community Engagement Program is designed to foster meaningful connections between the district, families, students, and community members. We strive to create a space where voices are heard, ideas are shared, and partnerships are formed.
Through this program, we aim to increase the visibility, awareness, and understanding of the issues that impact our Seattle community. Join us in shaping the future of our schools, neighborhoods, and cities by getting involved in the Community Engagement Program.
Why Community Engagement Matters
Community engagement is crucial for the success and improvement of Seattle Public Schools. It benefits students, informs decision-making, builds trust, cultivates equity, and amplifies community expertise. Here are some reasons why community engagement matters to us:
Student Success:
Engaging families and the community contributes to students' academic and social-emotional development, promoting their overall success.
Equity and Inclusion:
Meaningful engagement recognizes and celebrates diversity, helping us address disparities and create equitable opportunities for all students.
Informed Decisions:
By involving diverse perspectives in decision-making, we make more informed choices that address the unique needs of our students and communities.
Community Expertise:
Engaging community members allows us to tap into their expertise, enriching the educational experience for our students.
Trust and Relationships:
Community engagement fosters trust, positive relationships, and a sense of ownership among families and community members, strengthening the school-community bond.
Through community engagement, we create a collaborative partnership that shapes an inclusive educational environment, empowering every student to thrive. Community Engagement Programs and Services.
Family Partnerships Program
Here at Seattle Public Schools, we believe that family involvement is essential for student success. Our Family Partnerships program is all about fostering collaboration between families and our district, ensuring that every child receives the support they need. The program aims to strengthen the home and school connection and empower families to be active participants in their child's education. Through resources, workshops, and events, the program provides valuable support and guidance to families. For more information about the Family Partnerships program and the services it offers, please visit the Family Partnerships webpage.
Strategic Plan for Engagement
At Seattle Public Schools, community engagement isn't just a phrase – it's a promise. We've outlined this commitment in our Strategic Plan, putting the power of decisions into the hands of the community. The sets goals and strategies to ensure that community voices are heard and valued. To learn more about the district's Strategic Plan for Engagement and its initiatives, please visit the Strategic Plan for Engagement webpage.
Community Partnerships
The heart of a thriving school district is a vibrant community. Seattle Public Schools embraces this truth by partnering with local organizations to enrich our students' education. These partnerships bring mentorship programs, internships, and resources that amplify learning experiences. Seattle Public Schools values the collaboration and support of community organizations in creating a thriving learning environment. To explore some of the existing community partnerships and their impact, please visit the Community Partnerships webpage.
Focus Groups
Your perspective matters. That's why we gather insights from focus groups made up of parents, students, staff, and community members. Formed through a purposeful selection process, focus groups bring together individuals with diverse perspectives, experiences, and expertise. This diversity enriches discussions with insights that mirror our community's varied nature, whether the focus is on safety measures, curriculum enhancements, or community engagement. In these gatherings, participants openly share thoughts and concerns, igniting discussions that unveil the intricacies of various issues. These insights serve as compass points for our decision-making, placing community needs at the forefront. To learn more about the involvement of focus groups in Seattle Public Schools' Multi-Year Safety Plan and other initiatives, please visit the Multi-Year Safety Plan webpage.
How to Get Involved
Community Meetings
Stay informed and engaged by attending our community meetings. These meetings provide a platform for open discussions about important topics that impact our schools, students, and community. Superintendent [Superintendent's Name] and district leaders regularly host these gatherings to hear your insights, answer your questions, and work collaboratively towards positive changes. Your participation in these meetings helps shape the direction of our district. Keep an eye on our District News page for announcements about upcoming community meetings.
Volunteer Opportunities, Workshops, and Events
We offer a range of volunteer opportunities, workshops, and events throughout the year. These opportunities provide you with ways to contribute your skills, time, and expertise to enhance our educational environment. From volunteering in classrooms to participating in workshops on diverse topics, your involvement makes a meaningful impact on students' learning experiences. Visit our Volunteer page to explore various ways to get involved.
Resources for Engagement
Contact Information
If you have questions or inquiries related to community engagement, please feel free to reach out to our team. For questions about available volunteer opportunities or the status of your volunteer application, please contact the school or site where you would like to volunteer.
For questions about Volunteer Program procedures and policies, contact us here.
To reach the Family Partnerships department, you can email FamilyPartnerships@seattleschools.org or call 206-252-0716.