{"id":14534,"date":"2025-11-18T10:05:21","date_gmt":"2025-11-18T18:05:21","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/web.dusd.net\/garcia\/?p=14534"},"modified":"2025-11-10T14:21:41","modified_gmt":"2025-11-10T22:21:41","slug":"introducing-dusds-community-schools-initiative","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/web.dusd.net\/garcia\/2025\/11\/18\/introducing-dusds-community-schools-initiative\/","title":{"rendered":"Introducing DUSD\u2019s Community Schools Initiative"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

Meet Garcia’s Liaison<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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Rocio Carrillo <\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Hello Bulldogs! I am the Family and Community Engagement (FACE) Liaison for Garcia Elementary. I hold a bachelor’s degree in Human Services with a Mental Health concentration from Cal State University, Fullerton. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

For about 8 years I held the position of Parent Outreach Coordinator in a school setting. In this role, I partnered closely with the school community to ensure their voices were heard and their needs were supported. I also had the opportunity to create family events such as Day of the Dead Celebrations, Posadas and Health Fairs which brought the school community closer together. I continue to weave my passion for the arts it into the work that I do. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

At Imperial, I will work closely with school staff, students, and families. I look forward to continuing to support the school community and sharing local resources. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Fun facts:<\/em> I have a dance background, I love hamburgers, I was born in Jalisco, Mexico, and I enjoy going to the beach. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

I am excited to join the team! I look forward to getting to know you all. Don\u2019t hesitate to say hello when you see me. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Contact me<\/strong>: rocarrillo@dusd.net<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

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Building Stronger Connections for Student Success<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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Downey Unified School District is excited to announce the launch of an innovative program aimed at transforming the way schools support students and their families. The Community Schools Initiative<\/strong> is a groundbreaking effort to foster partnerships between schools, community agencies, and the district to address the academic, social, and emotional needs of students. This initiative focuses on creating a seamless network of support that bridges gaps and ensures every student has the resources they need to succeed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

What Are Community Schools?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

At its core, the Community Schools model is about collaboration. It transforms schools into hubs that provide not only quality education but also access to vital services and resources. These services include academics, health and social supports, youth and community development programs, and opportunities for family and community engagement. By aligning resources with the unique needs of each school community, the initiative is designed to improve student outcomes while fostering a sense of connection and support.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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How Does It Work?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Each participating school in the Community Schools program will have a dedicated Family and Community Engagement Liaison<\/strong>. These liaisons will work closely with families to connect them with resources such as counseling, after-school programs, and tutoring. They will also help coordinate workshops on topics like parenting skills, mental health awareness, and college readiness. At the district level, Family and Community Engagement Specialists<\/strong> will oversee the program, ensuring its alignment with district-wide goals and providing training for teachers and staff on effective communication and cultural competency.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Together, these roles aim to:<\/p>\n\n\n\n