Storytelling helps individuals relate to one another by sharing common experiences and learning. As part of our Deep Dive Transformation Partnership work, a set of Community School Fellows participated in a rich storytelling learning arc that has prepared them to uplift the inspirational work happening in their communities. Their accounts capture the rich journeys of communities seeking to center the voices of students, families/caregivers, educators, and community partners.
Explore the Fellows’ stories using the interactive digital map created in collaboration with DefCon!
Cohort 1 Stories
Anaheim Union High School District
For over ten years, Anaheim Union has embarked upon a journey of coherence and improvement to create and sustain powerful spaces for teaching and learning for all their youth. Their CS Fellows share how their community schools approach enriches their ongoing transformational work.
Shasta County Office of Education
Our Shasta Community School Fellows represent an extensive geographic area in the northern most part of our state. Covering 15 counties and 24 school districts, the rural experience of these Fellows illuminates the innovative practices that make this consortium a leader in the implementation of the Community School strategy.
West Contra Costa Unified School District
At the center of their community schools work, West Contra Costa has created transformational collaborative spaces that elevate the contributions and knowledge of their families and students. Through the Community Schools strategy, WCCUSD has created networks that leverage cities and community-based partners to serve the needs of students in a holistic manner.
Cohort 2 Stories
Ontario-Montclair School District
For 27 years Ontario-Montclair School District has been implementing a district-wide community school model. OMSD is a PK-8th grade district with 34 school sites creating safe and respectful communities where staff are supported, students belong, and families are welcomed. Through community partnerships and systematic tiered support, staff strive to address every need to support the whole child.
Wheatland Union High School District
Wheatland Union High School District is a close-knit educational community committed to academic excellence, career readiness, and whole-student well-being. Rooted in strong community values, the district fosters inclusive, respectful environments where students feel supported and connected. Through partnerships, career technical education, and student-centered programs, Wheatland empowers students to thrive in school and beyond. Families and staff work together to build a foundation for lifelong success.
Gateway Community Charters
Gateway Community Charters is a charter school management organization in Sacramento County that has been serving students for over 20 years. Our mission is to provide every student, especially those who’ve been underserved, with access to creative and robust educational opportunities. We support this through initiatives like dual enrollment, IB programs, career and college readiness services, independent study, and special education services.
Val Verde Unified School District
Val Verde Unified School District is a vibrant community dedicated to empowering over 19,000 students by fostering inclusive, equitable, and thriving learning environments. Committed to holistic development, Val Verde focuses on student wellness, family engagement, academic excellence, and preparing students for lifelong success.
Anaheim Union High School District
For over ten years, Anaheim Union has embarked upon a journey of coherence and improvement to create and sustain powerful spaces for teaching and learning for all their youth. Their CS Fellows share how their community schools approach enriches their ongoing transformational work.
Southern Inland R-TAC
The San Bernardino County Superintendent of Schools leads the Southern Inland Regional Technical Assistance Center (SI-RTAC). The SI-RTAC is committed to enhancing student supports, academics, health, and social-emotional learning for students in Inyo, Mono, Riverside, and San Bernardino counties through intentional partnerships with counties, school districts, schools and community-based organizations.
Capitol R-TAC
The Capitol Area Regional Transformational Assistance Center (R-TAC) is co-led by the Sacramento and Placer County Offices of Education and works on the ground with county offices of education, local educational agencies, and school sites within the region to help emerging and existing community schools create support networks, share best practices, plan for success, leverage funding, and coordinate services.













