Community Schools are an equity strategy that partner school with community to help put kids on more equal 'playing fields' by increasing access to: (1) basic needs, such as food, clothing, dental, and vision; (2) quality extended-day learning opportunities; (3) expanded opportunities to involve parents and community partners in the growth and success of our students, and (4) leadership and vision shared by stakeholders from all arenas.
Locally, our community schools are both a place and set of collective partnerships between Rochester Public Schools, United Way of Olmsted County, the individual school site, and other community resources. Its integrated focus on academics, health, social services, youth and community development, and community engagement leads to improved student learning, stronger families, and healthier communities.
John Marshall is working on initiatives under all four of these pillars listed above. Perhaps the most outwardly noticeable piece is our Rocket Community Room. Our RCR is a beautiful space open to all JM students to access items they need to be successful in school. These items include school supplies, clothing, winter wear, shoes, hygiene, and food, as well as many specialty items upon need. Our community room is supplied solely be donations and contributions from the JM, Rochester and Olmsted County communities. We are really proud to have this space that welcomes all students and helps eliminate some barriers to let them thrive being a student.
