{"id":16245,"date":"2025-11-18T10:28:14","date_gmt":"2025-11-18T18:28:14","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/web.dusd.net\/sussman\/?p=16245"},"modified":"2025-11-10T14:31:31","modified_gmt":"2025-11-10T22:31:31","slug":"introducing-dusds-community-schools-initiative","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/web.dusd.net\/sussman\/introducing-dusds-community-schools-initiative\/","title":{"rendered":"Introducing DUSD\u2019s Community Schools Initiative"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

Meet Sussman’s Liaison<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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\"Helen<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n
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Helen Rivera<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Hello Sussman Pioneers! My name is Helen Rivera, and I am
the Family and Community Engagement (FACE) Liaison
assigned to your site. I hold a Bachelor\u2019s of Science in Human
Development and a minor in Education from UC Davis.
<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I have previously had the opportunity to work in school
settings working alongside teachers to support the learning
and empowerment of students through teaching assistant
positions. In the past years, I have also fostered relationship
with families and children as a social worker in the county of
Los Angeles, and have provided home visitations and case
management services.
<\/p>\n\n\n\n

At Sussman, 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 feel free to reach out to me if you have any questions
and ideas. I look forward to be collaborating and be of support
to you!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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

Find me in the Room 46<\/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