COMMUNITY SCHOOLS CONVENING

From November 11-12, 2024 our FSCS team – Shawn, Leticia and Lauren – attended the Community Schools and University Assisted Community Schools Convening: Partnerships that Change Schools, Communities and Universities for the Better at the University of Philadelphia.  

This event provided valuable insights into the impact of partnerships between universities and community schools, as well as citywide and statewide collaborations. Our team is eager to apply these learnings to deepen engagement with Connecticut colleges and universities in supporting community schools.  

Special thanks to the University-Assisted Community Schools Network, the Netter Center for Community Partnership, and IEL’s Coalition for Community Schools for organizing this meaningful convening. 

FSCS PARTNER MEETING

The recent FSCS Partner Meeting united families, educators and community partners to strengthen collaboration and address the unique needs of local school communities. Full Service Community Schools (FSCS) emphasize shared responsibility in fostering environments that support positive student outcomes.

Discussion highlighted six key FSCS practices: collaborative leadership, expanded learning opportunities, family engagement, integrated support systems, a culture of safety and care, and rigorous, community-connected instruction. These practices aim to break barriers, build inclusive environments and connect learning to real-world experiences.

Participants explored opportunities for collaboration and resource-sharing while using data to reflect on progress and guide future actions. The meeting reinforced the collective commitment to making schools hubs for learning, connection and community support.

POWER OF PLACE

Last week, Miami hosted the Power of Place Convening, organized by the William Julius Wilson Institute and Harlem Children’s Zone (HCZ). This impactful event brought together leaders and advocates committed to enhancing social and economic mobility for vulnerable children and families. Keynote speaker Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona emphasized the vital role of education in building community resilience and addressing systemic challenges.

Geoffrey Canada, HCZ founder, and Kwame Owusu-Kesse, HCZ CEO, inspired attendees with their vision for place-based strategies to uplift entire communities. They called on participants to create supportive environments and tackle systemic inequalities to empower children and families. The convening served as a powerful reminder of what collaboration can achieve for the next generation.

CHILDCARE COMMUNITY NEEDS MEETING RECAP

We were thrilled to host over 30 attendees at the Stamford Childcare Community Needs Meeting, a dynamic evening focused on strengthening early childcare in our city. Participants included family daycare owners, community members exploring the path to opening family daycares, and representatives from local organizations dedicated to supporting early childcare. We also welcomed guests from New Britain’s active childcare incubator model, the Connecticut Project, and State Representative Corey Paris.

The evening featured an engaging panel discussion and Q&A session, where Nicole Villanueva and Tracey Madden-Hennessey shared their experiences and insights from leading Connecticut’s first childcare incubator in New Britain. Their valuable learnings provided a roadmap for expanding childcare options here in Stamford. Thank you to everyone who attended and contributed to this important conversation!

Diversity, Equity & Inclusion

In a time where conversations around Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) are evolving, our commitment remains steadfast. Despite the changing climate and varying levels of tolerance for DEI efforts, we are more dedicated than ever to achieving equitable outcomes for all. We recognize that systemic biases have historically marginalized certain communities, and we are determined to create meaningful, lasting change that uplifts those who need it most. Together, we can build a more inclusive and just society for everyone.  



Mark your calendars for the upcoming Facing Racism in Stamford series, starting January 8th and running every Wednesday for six weeks. This series examines the root causes of racism, explores how it manifests today, and provides ways to begin an anti-racist journey. Don’t miss this opportunity to deepen your understanding and commitment to creating a more equitable community. 

Stay tuned for more information by subscribing to our calendar below!

Recommiting to Equity and Healing After the Election

As the election season comes to a close, we remain focused on our shared goal: creating and sustaining an equitable present and future for our kids, families, and community. Regardless of the results (and your opinion of the results), our commitment to this work continues, fueled by the belief that everyone deserves the opportunity to thrive.  

To sustain this effort, we recognize the importance of rest and healing. Taking time to recharge allows us to return to our work with renewed dedication. Below are some resources to support you in recharging, reconnecting, and healing, so that together we can keep building a brighter, more equitable future for all.  

• Addressing Trauma and Healing | Racial Equity Tools 
• Collective Grief & Healing Playlist | The Nap Ministry 
• Toward Wholeness: Resourcing our Nervous Systems by Alison Lin | Change Elemental 
• What It Takes to Heal by Prentiss Hemphill 
• The Art of Mindful Living by Thich Nhat Hanh/Plum Village 
• Flourishing Kin: Indigenous Wisdom for Collective Well-Being by Dr. Yuria Celidwen 
• Navigating Stress - Recognizing Symptoms of Stress, Acute Stress, & PTSD | Sikh American Legal Defense and Education Fund (SALDEF)