The Blue Cross of Idaho Foundation for Health is a partner of the Idaho Coalition for Community Schools and supports community schools because we believe this framework is one of the best strategies to address the root causes that impact health in the education sector.

Community schools are public schools that offer services to students and families that improve their well-being and enhance their educational journey. Examples of services provided can be food pantries, clothing closets, before- and after-school programs, health clinics, and more.

Each community school has a Community School Coordinator, an often-unsung hero who leads family and community engagement efforts to identify what services and programs are needed by students and families. Once these data-driven decisions are made, the coordinator works as the connector with community partners to bring those desired programs and services to the school.

The National Coalition for Community Schools has designated Sept. 14-20 as Community School Coordinators Appreciation Week. We at the Blue Cross of Idaho Foundation for Health say thank you to all Community Schools Coordinators who are doing great things to help Idaho youth and families thrive.

Community School Coordinators are builders. They build partnerships with community organizations and build trust by serving as a bridge between families, schools, and the community!