CDE Field Trips - 10/11/24: Colorado Educators Gather to Kick Off Community Schools Learning Cohort

Education professionals from across Colorado gathered recently at the Lowry Conference Center for the kickoff of the Community Schools Learning Cohort. Hosted by Colorado Department of Education’s District Improvement Strategy Office, this initiative aims to help school leaders and district teams implement the community schools strategy, transforming schools into hubs where educators, local community members, families, and students get together to improve conditions for a healthier learning environment. The community school strategy combines school, district and community resources to support students in a unified approach. This evidence-based school improvement strategy offers opportunities and support to help young people thrive in their schools and communities.

The event was divided into two main activities. In the morning, participants engaged in a Community School Strategy Overview, where they explored the essential elements of the strategy and discussed opportunities for growth within their districts. This was followed by a site visit to Crawford Elementary School in Aurora Public Schools, where participants observed the school’s community-centered approach in action. The visit concluded with a panel discussion featuring parents from the "Parents in Action" group, offering insights into how community engagement strengthens school programs.

The Community Schools Learning Cohort is designed to support school and district leaders in building systems that empower students, families, and local communities. Participants will meet over six sessions, addressing topics such as strategic planning, collaborative leadership, and sustainability of community schools. These sessions will also include additional site visits to schools that have successfully implemented the community schools model.

Learn more about CDE’s learning cohorts by visiting the CDE Leadership Learning Cohorts webpage.