Cultivating Connections: The Impact of Community and School Partnerships on Students in an Ecological System

• In Event: AERA Roundtable Session Thursday 1:45 pm Four Seasons Ballroom 4
  In Roundtable Session: Reimagining STEM Educational Research (Table 6)

Abstract

This study examines the impact of community-school-university partnerships on students in an urban school. We utilized an ecological systems approach, focusing on how the integration of ecological systems theory supports educational transformation, emphasizing the interconnectedness of environmental factors on student development. Utilizing qualitative data from interviews with school leaders and students, we identify themes that highlight the significance of holistic support systems. Our findings demonstrate that community-based initiatives and a comprehensive support network enhance students' school connectedness and overall educational experience, indicating that ecological approaches can effectively address educational inequalities.

Authors

• Saliha Al, University of Rochester

• Junnan Li, University of Rochester

• Judith H. Van Alstyne, University of Rochester

• Zainab Amr, University of Rochester

• Luke Hands, University of Rochester