About GCPS Community Schools

Garrett County Public Schools is proud to implement the Community Schools strategy in several of our elementary schools. Community Schools are more than just a place for learning—they are hubs of opportunity and support for students, families, and the surrounding community. By partnering with local organizations, we provide access to essential services such as health care, food support, family engagement, and academic enrichment. This whole-child, whole-family approach helps ensure every student is ready to learn and thrive, both in and out of the classroom. 

Beginning in the 2023-24 school year, GCPS had one community school, Yough Glades Elementary. With the start of the 2024-25 school year, four additional schools received community school status: Broad Ford School, Crellin Elementary, Friendsville Elementary, and Grantsville Elementary.

Community Schools and the Blueprint for Maryland’s Future

The Blueprint for Maryland’s Future mandates that schools with high concentrations of poverty implement the Community Schools strategy to address barriers to student success. Under this initiative, GCPS is required to:​

• Appoint a Community School Coordinator: Each designated school must have a coordinator to lead the implementation of community school strategies.​

• Conduct Comprehensive Needs Assessments: Collaboratively assess the needs of students and families to inform the selection of wraparound services.​

• Provide Wraparound Services: Offer services such as health care, mental health support, academic enrichment, and family engagement activities to support the whole child.​

These requirements aim to create equitable learning environments by addressing the holistic needs of students and fostering strong school-community partnerships. For more information on the Blueprint's community school provisions, visit the Maryland State Department of Education's Community Schools page.

Needs Assessment: A Cornerstone of Community Schools

As part of the Blueprint for Maryland’s Future, each designated community school is required to conduct a comprehensive needs assessment to identify and address the unique challenges faced by its students and families. ​

This collaborative process involves the Community School Coordinator, school principal, healthcare practitioner, and representatives from the Parent-Teacher Association or school council. Together, they gather input through surveys, listening sessions, and focus groups with students, parents, staff, and community members. The goal is to gain a holistic understanding of the school's environment and determine the wraparound services needed to support student success.​

The insights gained from the needs assessment inform the development of tailored strategies and programs, such as academic enrichment, health services, and family engagement activities. By addressing the specific needs of each school community, GCPS aims to create equitable learning environments where all students can thrive.

Get Involved with Community Schools

Community Schools thrive through strong partnerships and active community engagement. Whether you're a parent, neighbor, business owner, or local organization, there are many ways to help support our students and families.

Here’s how you can get involved:

• Partner with Us: Offer services, resources, or expertise that support students’ academic, social, or emotional needs.

• Volunteer Your Time: Help with events, classroom activities, mentoring, or after-school programs.

• Join the Conversation: Participate in needs assessment discussions, school councils, or family engagement meetings.

• Support Local Initiatives: Contribute to school-based food drives, clothing closets, or wellness programs.

To learn more or express your interest in supporting our Community Schools, please contact your local school or the GCPS Community Schools team. Together, we can build stronger schools and a stronger Garrett County.

Next Steps