NYC Community Schools

Perhaps NYC Dept Mayor said it best a couple of days ago when he made these remarks about the Renewal Schools initiative. “There is no magic bullet,” Mr. Buery said. “No one is saying Community Schools by itself are going to fundamentally change the work, but what I would say — and is critical — is that Community Schools are a necessary part of that work, as well as a deeper strategy to improve teaching in the building.”

So both the Mayor and Deputy Mayor get it. They realize that the 'Community Schools' approach, in and of itself, is no panacea for what ails students, families and communities which are struggling.

What I like about this two-year program that will pump $150 million into 94 of the most troubled schools - and by association the students and teachers - is the fact that it goes beyond resourcing the children and staff in the classroom. Two of the most crucial components of the program address needs outside of the school walls. Many students with mental health issues will get the assistance they desperately need. Beyond this component, the program will provide food to the children when it is determined that they are able to get those meals at home.

As Buery said, there is no 'magic bullet' but it is an initiative that deserves time and support. The last thing the community needs is to shutter the neighborhood school doors and to walk away from the problems.

Dick