Schools are more than places where children learn. They are gathering places where families build connections, access resources, and find support. Through the Community Schools program, we help strengthen those connections so students and families can thrive—both inside and outside the classroom.

Community Schools are a collaborative initiative of Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS), Fairfax County Neighborhood and Community Services, and community partners that brings together academic support, family engagement, health and social services, and youth development opportunities to help students and families thrive. Built on the belief that student success extends beyond the classroom, Community Schools serve as trusted hubs where schools and community organizations work together to remove barriers to learning, strengthen family connections, and expand access to resources. Since launching its pilot program in 2016 at Walt Whitman Middle School and Mount Vernon Woods Elementary School, the Community Schools model has helped FCPS create stronger partnerships with local organizations, ensuring that students and families have the support they need to succeed in school and in life.

United Community is proud to serve as the lead community partner for Walt Whitman Middle School and Mount Vernon Woods Elementary School as part of Fairfax County’s Community Schools initiative. Through this role, we work closely with Fairfax County Public Schools, Fairfax County Neighborhood and Community Services, families, and local organizations to help connect students and families with the resources and opportunities they need to thrive.

The impact of Community Schools can be seen every day through the relationships built between schools, families, and community partners. From connecting families with essential resources to creating opportunities for learning and engagement, Community Schools help foster a sense of belonging and support that extends well beyond the school day. Recent events at Mount Vernon Woods Elementary School and Walt Whitman Middle School offer a glimpse into how these partnerships come to life and strengthen our community.

Surf Into Summer at Mount Vernon Woods Elementary School

On May 21, United Community’s clinical team hosted the third annual Surf Into Summer family event at Mount Vernon Woods Elementary School.

Families gathered to learn strategies for supporting their children’s learning throughout the summer and preventing summer learning loss. Patricia Ramirez, Region 3 Family Liaison Representative, shared practical tips and resources, while students from Mount Vernon High School provided childcare activities so parents could fully participate.

The school library and cafeteria were filled with energy and excitement as children created art, played games, and enjoyed snacks. Families connected with local organizations at a resource fair and learned about programs available throughout the community.

A raffle featuring bikes, scooters, summer activity baskets, household items, and gift cards added even more excitement to the afternoon. Most importantly, the event created a welcoming space where families could connect, learn, and celebrate together.

Summer Resource Fair at Walt Whitman Middle School

At Walt Whitman Middle School, families gathered for a Summer Resource Fair designed to help them explore programs, services, and opportunities available during the summer months.

As Community School Coordinator, and recent “Hometown Hero” Karen Cordova explained:

“Even though school is out, parents are still working and need support in planning for their children. Our goal was to create a space where families could see available options and feel more supported in making those decisions.”

Despite rainy weather, families came out to meet community partners, gather information about summer programs, and connect with resources that could support their children and household throughout the summer.

The event reflected what Community Schools are all about: making sure families know they are not navigating challenges alone and that support is available when they need it.

Building Connections, Creating Opportunities

Community Schools are successful because they bring together the strengths of schools, families, and community partners around a shared goal: helping every child succeed. Whether through educational workshops, resource fairs, health services, or family engagement events, these partnerships create pathways to opportunity and help families feel connected, supported, and empowered.

At United Community, we are honored to be part of this work alongside Fairfax County Public Schools and our community partners.