{"id":14569,"date":"2025-11-18T10:25:45","date_gmt":"2025-11-18T18:25:45","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/web.dusd.net\/williams\/?p=14569"},"modified":"2025-11-10T14:28:21","modified_gmt":"2025-11-10T22:28:21","slug":"introducing-dusds-community-schools-initiative","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/web.dusd.net\/williams\/2025\/11\/18\/introducing-dusds-community-schools-initiative\/","title":{"rendered":"Introducing DUSD\u2019s Community Schools Initiative"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

Meet Williams’ Liaison<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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Veronica Estrada<\/em><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Hello Jaguars! My name is Veronica Estrada, and I am the Family and Community Engagement (FACE) Liaison for Williams Elementary. I hold a bachelor\u2019s degree in Human Services with emphasis in Mental Health Recovery from California State University, Dominguez Hills. I am also completing my doctorate in Occupational Therapy.  In my free time I enjoy reading, hiking, and making art.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I have extensive experience working in the non-profit sector working with families who were previously experiencing homelessness, connecting individuals with mental health resources and community resources. Some of my previous roles include supervisor of housing and case management. I am excited to join your team!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

At Williams I will collaborate with 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

Contact me<\/strong>:
<\/a>vestrada@dusd.net<\/a><\/strong><\/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
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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