Moving Toward Community Schools and Expanding July 20, 2021

Dover School District Update: Moving Toward Community Schools and Expanding Opportunities

The July 20, 2021, Dover School District meeting marked a pivotal moment as the district began its transition toward becoming a community school district. Alongside updates on curriculum expansion and a new mentoring program, the meeting showcased the district’s commitment to addressing the holistic needs of its students and families.

Transitioning to a Community School District

The district took its first step toward becoming a Community School District, a model rooted in addressing the social, emotional, physical, and academic needs of students. Historically, community schools have served as vital centers of support during times of crisis, from the Great Depression to the Civil Rights Movement. Today, they are positioned to play a critical role in addressing challenges exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Key developments include:

• Lead Community Liaison Position: Approved to oversee efforts that connect schools, families, and community organizations.

• School-Level Community Liaisons: Each school will have a liaison to support families in areas such as job loss, food insecurity, and housing instability.

Research has shown that stabilizing families leads to improved student attendance, academic progression, and reduced disciplinary issues. The district is also reviewing the Coalition for Community Schools Partner Pledge and plans to bring it to the board for approval in August, further solidifying its commitment to this transformation.

Curriculum Expansion

The district is entering a busy period of curriculum development, with new and revised curriculums up for approval. This effort is part of a two-year plan to enrich academic offerings. Thanks were extended to supervisors and curriculum writers for their dedication to this important work. Additional curriculum approvals are expected in August.

Big Brothers Big Sisters Mentoring Program

In collaboration with Big Brothers Big Sisters and Deloitte, the district is launching a new mentoring program for Dover High School students. The program aims to:

• Pair 20–25 students with vetted, professional mentors who provide consistent, long-term support.

• Focus on students who could benefit from workplace mentorship, helping them build confidence and life skills.

• Include a social worker from Big Brothers Big Sisters to oversee the program.

The mentoring sessions will take place during mentors’ work hours, offering students an invaluable opportunity to learn from professionals. This program, initially planned before the pandemic, is being reintroduced to provide additional support for students.

A Holistic Approach to Education

The meeting reinforced the district’s commitment to educating the whole child. Recognizing that students cannot thrive academically without their basic needs being met, the district is aligning its efforts to ensure families receive the resources and support they need.

Looking Ahead

The Dover School District’s focus on becoming a community school district, expanding its curriculum, and introducing impactful programs like Big Brothers Big Sisters demonstrates a forward-thinking approach to education. By addressing both academic and non-academic needs, the district is creating an environment where students and families can thrive.