Assess What Your Community Needs

One of the core principles of the community schools strategy is responding to the documented needs and strengths of students and their families. To determine your community's individual needs, follow these important steps:

• Collect available demographic data.
• Reach out to community residents.
• Tap the expertise of local leaders and human service professionals.
• Learn what services currently exist.
• Look at the community’s strengths.
• Plan ahead.

There is no substitute for conducting a thorough needs and resource assessment. The Children's Aid Society can help. Contact our National Center for Community Schools by email or at (646) 867-6660 if you would like to begin this process.