Involving the Wider Community

As part of the larger community, schools and other programs fulfill important community goals. Many communities are able to offer a variety of resources valuable to schools and the families they serve.

When schools and communities work together, they achieve mutually beneficial results:

• Families access community resources more easily;
• Businesses connect education programs with the realities of the workplace;
• Seniors contribute their knowledge and experience to students and in turn gain a greater sense of purpose; and ultimately,
• Students participate in learning activities beyond their school involvement.

Successful Practices the TDSB Undertakes to Involve the Wider Community

• Distribute information regarding cultural, recreational, academic, health, social, and other resources that serve families within the community.
• Develop partnerships with local business and service groups to improve student learning and assist schools and families.
• Encourage employers to adopt policies and practices that promote and support adult participation in children's education.
• Foster student participation in community service.
• Involve community members in school volunteer programs.
• Disseminate information to the school community, including those without school-age children, regarding school programs and performance.
• Pubilcize the school web site to the community.
• Collaborate with community agencies to provide family support services and adult learning opportunities, enabling parents to more fully participate in activities that support education.
• Inform staff members of the resources available in the community and strategies for utilizing those resources.