Education is a cornerstone of society, shaping the future of individuals and communities alike. While formal education takes place in schools, the role of the broader community in the educational process cannot be underestimated. Community engagement in education is a powerful force that enhances learning outcomes, fosters a sense of belonging, and strengthens the social fabric of neighborhoods.
In Queen Creek Unified School District (QCUSD), community and family engagement events, or C.A.F.E. events, bring together non-profit organizations to meet and discuss how to make QCUSD a better place for students, staff and the community.
Events such as this help bridge the gap between the classroom and the outside world. By involving active participation and discussion, groups collaborate and share information to help strengthen partnerships and set the foundation for projects and events like Love Our Schools Day, coming up on Oct. 21.
Love Our Schools Day is a special day in which community volunteers complete needed projects in their neighborhood schools. Director of Community Education Ellie Hardt explained that one of the primary reasons for the C.A.F.E. event last month was to start a discussion about the needs for each school and how the community can help accomplish these goals.
“I think by involving the community and building a partnership goes beyond Love our Schools Day,” said Hardt. “It goes beyond just that one day. There are people who will come and support our district.”
Prudence Sanders, who has a student attending Eastmark High School, attended the C.A.F.E. event for the first time on Sept. 21 and expressed how impressed she was with the collaboration from the community to participate in Love Our Schools Day.
“The people at my table were so willing to pitch in, willing to help, willing to make a difference for all of the community as well as Eastmark,” said Sanders. “The children are our future, and so we have to work together for the betterment and success of all children.”
Community engagement in education is a vital component of a successful educational system. If you are or someone you know is interested in volunteering to benefit local schools, visit the School Connect website here.
