California’s Community Schools Initiative Shows Early Gains in Student Attendance, Behavior, and Achievement
In a sweeping effort to support high‑need schools, California launched its Community Schools Partnership Program (CCSPP), a $4.1 billion investment aimed at helping students, families, and communities beyond school walls.
After the first full year of CCSPP implementation, schools receiving the grants saw measurable improvements versus similar schools without funding:
Chronic absenteeism dropped at a 30% greater rate compared to similarly matched schools
Suspension rates fell by roughly 15% on average
Academic achievement rose, especially for historically underserved students: Black students and English learners saw gains equivalent to 50+ extra days of learning in both math and English language arts
These early successes were strongest in schools that improved attendance the most, emphasizing the link between being present and learning.
The findings suggest that CCSPP’s holistic model — which combines academic support, family engagement, expanded learning time, and integrated services — is helping reduce inequalities and improve outcomes for students who have faced long‑standing barriers.
More details are highlighted in this Learning Policy Institute brief.
