A Community School is a hub of learning, connection, and opportunity—a place where educators, local community members, families, and students collaborate to strengthen conditions for student learning, whole-child engagement, and healthy development.
Aspen Public Schools began the journey toward Community School designation in 2022, ultimately receiving a grant from the State of California. Today, all three Aspen campuses are recognized as Community Schools, working closely with State and Regional Technical Assistance Centers and the Fresno County Office of Education to ensure that every student has access to the resources they need to succeed. By providing integrated services, we support academic achievement, social-emotional growth, and community engagement.
Leadership begins with listening, and at Aspen, students have a seat at the table. Through student-led teams, shared decision making, and leadership development opportunities, they play an active role in shaping their education and school communities. By fostering collaboration between students, educators, and families, we ensure that every voice is heard, valued, and contributes to meaningful change.
The Community Schools model is built on four pillars that ensure students receive comprehensive support in and out of the classroom. These pillars guide our approach to student success, fostering an environment where every child can grow.
Aspen provides wraparound support services, including on-campus mental health resources, school counselors, and partnerships with local organizations to address student wellness, academic success, and social-emotional development.
Through the Advisory Council, family workshops, and community-driven initiatives like our Community Garden, Aspen fosters strong relationships between schools, families, and local partners. Parents and guardians are encouraged to take an active role in decision-making and shaping student experiences.
Aspen fosters a collaborative culture where students, educators, school leaders, and families work together to shape the learning environment. Through shared leadership programs and professional development initiatives, everyone plays a role in improving instruction and creating a culture of continuous growth.
Aspen’s Expanded Learning & After School Program offers after-school and summer programs at Aspen Valley and Aspen Meadow that provide extra academic support, fun enrichment activities, and real-world learning opportunities.
Each of our three Community Schools Advisory Councils brings together up to four students, four family members, four staff members, and four community partners to help shape Aspen’s future. Through shared decision-making and strategic action, members strengthen programs, partnerships, and student support.
Your insights matter—join your school’s Advisory Council to help guide Aspen’s Community School initiatives. Meetings are open to all and held in English and Spanish.
Aspen’s Community Engagement Initiative (CEI) connects students, families, staff, and community members to statewide learning opportunities that shape the future of education. Through the Peer Leading and Learning Network, representatives from all three campuses collaborate with schools across California, gaining insights that strengthen Aspen’s programs.
Take your involvement to the next level by participating in both the Advisory Council and CEI, helping to drive meaningful change at Aspen and beyond.
Aspen’s Community Schools thrive when students, families, educators, and community partners come together. Whether you’re interested in volunteering your time, supporting special projects like the Community Garden, or partnering with Aspen at an organizational level, your time and expertise help create meaningful opportunities for students and families.
