COMMUNITY AND FAMILY PARTNERSHIPS Recognizing the value of community engagement, Binghamton City School District has embraced a community school model. Starting at birth, families can enroll in the Parents and Children Together (PACT) program, where parent educators will visit the home and offer resources and guidance on development and parenting. Along with this, Binghamton is one of two districts in the state offering full day programming for three and four year olds. At the elementary level, Binghamton City Schools supports its students with on-site physical and mental health clinics through United Health Services, food pantries, and after-school programs, all designed to contribute to the holistic development of every child. At the elementary level, parent engagement is encouraged through evening programs in which teachers and community partners offer courses from dancing to cooking, that allow parents and children to learn new skills together. Additionally, the district embeds family liaisons within the schools, working closely with the local Department of Social Services to proactively address family needs. “We have nine of those positions in place,” details Thompson.“Our desire is to have one in every elementary school and one in each of our middle schools.” Binghamton also collaborates with Liberty Partnership and Hillside Family and Children to provide students with internships, college preparation programs, and workforce development initiatives, as well as transportation to these opportunities.To assist high school students and help overcome barriers to higher education, the district also partners with the TRIO, and Upward Bound programs.“We have mentors and A proud partner and supporter of the Binghamton City School District. Albany // Newburgh // Utica CSARCHPC.COM Architecture | Engineering | Interior Design DESIGN FOR STUDENT SUCCESS. 6 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 06, ISSUE 05
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