When a student needs a winter coat or a family isn’t sure where to find health services, knowing where to turn can be difficult. Across five School District of Lancaster schools, Community School Directors help families access what they need while bringing each school closer to the neighborhood around it.
Community School Director Appreciation Week, recognized Sept. 13–19, celebrates the professionals who coordinate this work so students can thrive. Their title may sound straightforward, but their role reaches nearly every part of the school community.
SDoL’s Community Schools model recognizes that students are better positioned to learn when their needs beyond the classroom are supported. Burrowes, Carter & MacRae, King, Lafayette, and Washington elementary schools and Lincoln Middle School serve as neighborhood centers offering access to health services and expanded learning opportunities, including mentoring.
Each school is paired with a lead community organization that works alongside the principal and building leadership. The Boys & Girls Club of Lancaster partners with Burrowes, King and Washington. Bright Side Opportunities partners with Lafayette. The Lancaster Recreation Commission supports Carter & MacRae, while The Mix partners with Lincoln.
Leading this work are:
- Alex Rohrer at Burrowes
- Shane Howell at Carter & MacRae
- Tabitha Benitez at King
- Helga Mendez at Washington
- Lakisha Lukes at Lincoln.
Their days rarely follow the same schedule. A director might help a student receive a new uniform before meeting with an organization interested in supporting an after-school program. Another day may involve visiting a family at home or working with building leaders to address an issue affecting students across the school.
Because the needs of each building and neighborhood differ, Community School Directors spend time listening to students and families while learning the priorities of their schools. Their understanding helps community organizations determine how they can contribute and allows services to reach the people who can benefit from them.
Much of this work happens quietly, with its impact becoming clear when a student can focus because a basic need has been addressed or a family knows whom to contact. It can also be seen when an organization finds a meaningful way to serve a school and develops a relationship that continues beyond a single donation or event.
Community School Directors also advance SDoL’s strategic commitment to Family and Community Engagement. The district has pledged to strengthen alliances with community organizations and develop an approach responsive to each school.
During Community School Director Appreciation Week, SDoL recognizes Alex, Shane, Tabitha, Helga and Lakisha for the trust they build and the opportunities they help create. We also thank the Boys & Girls Club of Lancaster, Bright Side Opportunities Center, the Lancaster Recreation Commission and The Mix for their continued partnership.
Their leadership helps our Community Schools become places where families know where to turn and students have what they need to learn with a stronger sense of belonging.