In response to feedback we received from grantees, SDCOE Community Schools Network Meetings are being hosted at community schools throughout our county. On Jan. 16, the SDCOE Community Schools Team collaborated with Vista High School in North County San Diego to host January’s Network Meeting.
During the Network Meeting, attendees had the opportunity to engage and network with fellow community school grantees and listen and learn from Vista High School's community schools team. Attendees also participate in peer learning sessions focused on collaborative leadership, family and community engagement, and integrated supports.
The collaborative leadership peer learning session included a panel of student and parent leaders. Vista High Schools Principal, Megan Ratliff, facilitated the panel and asked students how their voice was heard at Vista High School.
During the family and community engagement peer learning session, attendees had the opportunity to visit the community room and listen and learn from Tamara Drummond, community schools coordinator, Yuleni Prado-Lopez, family liaison, Michael Fowlkes, PSTA president, and Amanda Remmen, PTSA VP membership. In addition to hearing about the array of support and services provided to students and families at the community room, the voices of the families were amplified. For instance, Mr. Fowlkes spoke about his efforts as PSTA president and identifying and securing grants to support the school community.
One of the highlights in the integrated supports peer learning session was how Vista High School is utilizing their flex period to provide students with integrated student supports. This model ensures that all students receive support services without missing out on classroom instruction.
There was a great response by attendees; many were impressed by the high level of involvement of Vista High School students and how their voices have driven the work at the school. When asked “What is one thing that this meeting inspired you to do?,” attendees responded:
“I love how the students and community really partnered together. Students took ownership of the school as much as administration. I loved the parent community center and PTSA involvement as well. I loved how things were done with each year focusing on one thing at a time to make sure you do it right”
“Incorporating student and parent voices in all leadership groups rather than just in the advisory council.”
“Start building more collaboration and integration of team”
Save the Date: The next Community Schools Network Meeting will be on Thursday, Feb. 20. Please share the registration link with your sites/team and encourage them to register to participate.