They bring families and communities into partnerships with schools to find solutions for problems that are common to all. Schools of education need to cross-train educators and other workers for this common language. The certification process also needs to be changed to incorporate all the workers involved in providing services to children. Individualized education plans should not be the privilege of special education students alone, but should be used for every student. States have an important role coordinating the services of different agencies, eliminating bureaucratic barriers and avoiding turf conflicts.
Many states have their own comprehensive initiatives.
Existing resources such as Titlte I and Drug Free Schools could be used for more intensive, sustained, integrated youth development programs. Approximately eight years ago, the Society entered into a partnership with the Board of Education in New York City to open a Full-Service Community School in Washington Heights. Washington Heights is located at the northernmost part of Manhattan, and is an area characterized by high crime rates, high poverty, and overcrowded schools. The population is mostly immigrants from Central America and Eastern Europe. Currently, four out of the public 32 schools in Washington Heights are full-service but the school district is planning to expand the program to other schools.