“It’s the Emotional Connection, It’s the Global Connection”: The Social Contexts That Influence School-Community Partnering

• In Event: Teacher Preparations and Home-School Partnerships

Abstract

This qualitative case study examines the impact of social context on school-community partnerships. Sixty-four students and school personnel at one K-12 magnet school in southern California participated in 21 open-ended, 45-minute interviews. Observations were conducted, and documents were collected. Structural, cultural and agentive issues impacted partnership establishment. Teachers and the principal valued a school culture was conducive to community involvement. They collectively developed the school’s mission and vision with a focus on global citizenship, and initiated partnerships consistent with the vision. Funding and networks contributed to the professional development, resources and technology needed to support partnering. Findings extend research by identifying the educators’ leadership roles in partnering, and the structures and cultures that facilitate it.

Author

• Catherine Hands, Brock University