Family Engagement and Out of School Supports

Starting Smart is the first pillar of SSKC’s work, as we believe that Kansas City schools cannot be successful without the intentional and proactive engagement of our families as full partners in the school system.

Family engagement starts with making sure families and students are able to confront obstacles to their success from outside the school environment.

For many students in Kansas City, barriers to success include homelessness, food insecurity, mental health and trauma, as well as limited access to critical social services. These needs have only been amplified by the COVID-19 pandemic, creating an even deeper need within our schools who have limited resources to meet these needs. SchoolSmartKC in this pillar works closely with schools to assess needs and provide supports to meet them.

SchoolSmartKC is also committed to supporting schools in establishing meaningful relationships of trust with the families they serve. We know that fostering trust and building partnerships with parents, particularly those facing socioeconomic challenges and from traditionally marginalized groups is a catalyst for stronger attendance, achievement and success for students.

Family Engagement programming at SchoolSmartKC is led by Juan Rangel, Director of Family Engagement.

“Family engagement is often the ‘missing piece’ when it comes to student success. We have a diverse population in Kansas City with a diverse, ever-changing set of needs. We must find new avenues to come together, to engage, and to inform parents so that they can partner with schools for the success of their kids”

– Juan Rangel