Hacienda La Puente Unified Schools Expand Community Support with $21.3 Million Grant

CITY OF INDUSTRY - Hacienda La Puente Unified School District is transforming its schools into centers of community support in the 2024-25 academic year, thanks to a $21.3 million grant from the California Community Schools Partnership Program (CCSPP).

The District is advancing from the planning phase to implementation after CCSPP funds were awarded in May 2024, with 17 campuses now offering integrated support services to address the academic, social-emotional, and family needs of students. These services include medical, dental, and mental health care, as well as resources for parents such as housing assistance, job training, and educational opportunities.

The District’s approach to utilizing CCSPP funds is guided by four foundational pillars: integrated support services, extended learning opportunities, family and community engagement, and collaborative leadership.

“Community schools have become crucial support systems for families,” said Carolina Zuniga Mejia, Community Schools Site Specialist at Sparks Elementary. “It’s inspiring to see students, parents, and local organizations work together to create a more inclusive environment for learning and growth.”

In the first semester of the initiative’s implementation, schools have made notable progress:

• Sparks Elementary launched a wellness and resource center and partnered with local organizations to help provide students and families with clothing, school supplies, and food. The school also hosted a pantry drive, collecting more than 400 donations for families in need.
• Palm Elementary established a resource room on campus where students and families can access essential and mental health services.
• California Elementary conducted CPR training for parents and emphasized the importance of student attendance.
• Fairgrove Academy celebrated cultural traditions with a Día de los Muertos ofrenda and incorporated ethnic studies lessons into its curriculum.
• Baldwin Academy held monthly family events, including a Harvest Festival, which engaged local leaders and community members.

The District is also encouraging parents and community members to participate in monthly Community Schools Implementation Advisory Council Committee meetings. The committee plays a key role in shaping the priorities and guiding the implementation of Community Schools across Hacienda La Puente Unified and is comprised of parents, educators, students, and other community stakeholders.

“We have made tremendous progress in turning our schools into essential pillars of support for our communities,” Superintendent Dr. Alfonso Jiménez said. “These efforts are laying the groundwork for long-term success by fostering stronger connections between schools, families, and local organizations, and we remain committed to expanding our initiatives to ensure that every member of our community has the resources they need to thrive.”