less likely to drop out of high school with City Connects support
students served and resources connected
of principals believe City Connects improves school climate
Note: Because the students and families we serve will be especially hard hit by the educational, social, and economic impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, the need for strong and effective approaches to student support has never been greater. To help meet this need, the Boston College Center for Optimized Student Support will continue to bring you information and best practices relevant to effectively serving children and families before, during, and after this crisis. The Center's flagship program, City Connects is continuing its commitment to provide high-quality, evidence-driven student support in this challenging time.
At City Connects, the Premise is Simple
When you’re hungry, you can’t learn. When you’re homeless, you can’t do homework. When you’re worried, or sad, or angry — when mom is sick, or dad imprisoned — you can’t concentrate.
Out-of-school challenges diminish a child’s ability to learn and thrive, especially in high-poverty urban school districts. City Connects provides a clear, organized, and evidence-based strategy for schools to address these challenges — offering a hub of support that matches existing services to each student.
In this vibrant look inside our City Connects schools, you’ll hear firsthand from administrators, teachers, community partners, and City Connects staff members about the impact we make on students, teachers, and principals. Watch the video to learn how our student support program works.