{"id":14785,"date":"2025-11-18T09:51:48","date_gmt":"2025-11-18T17:51:48","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/web.dusd.net\/gauldin\/?p=14785"},"modified":"2025-11-10T14:23:07","modified_gmt":"2025-11-10T22:23:07","slug":"introducing-dusds-community-schools-initiative","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/web.dusd.net\/gauldin\/2025\/11\/18\/introducing-dusds-community-schools-initiative\/","title":{"rendered":"Introducing DUSD\u2019s Community Schools Initiative"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

Meet Gauldin’s Liaison<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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\"Natalie<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n
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Natalie Martinez Corona<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Hello Dolphins! I am the Family Community Engagement
(FACE) liaison assigned to your site.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

As a first-generation college graduate, I hold a bachelor’s
degree in Children Development from Mount St.Mary\u2019s
University. In my spare time, I enjoy going to the beach,
watching hallmark movies and spending time with my
daughter.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I have ten years of non-profit experience in home visiting,
providing case management, hosting parent meetings and
collaborating with outside community vendors. I provided in
home education, support, resources and targeted services for
children, parents and pregnant women that meet their
specific needs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

At Gauldin, I will collaborate with the school staff, community
partners, and on-site support services to enhance family
engagement and raise awareness about community
resources and services.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Please don\u2019t hesitate to reach out to me if you need any help.
I am excited to be part of this journey with you all.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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

Find me in the Front Office<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

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Building Stronger Connections for Student Success<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
\"We<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

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