Research indicates that learners are most successful when their families and communities are supportive of and involved in the work of the schools. To that end, the Center of Excellence began its successful partnership with the National Network of Partnership Schools (NNPS) at Johns Hopkins University in the Fall of 2005. Initiated to provide Partner Districts with highest quality, research-based supports for the development of strong and productive connections between schools, families, and communities, this collaboration was introduced at Francis Marion by Joyce Epstein, Johns Hopkins principle researcher and an original member of the Center’s initial task force and planning team.
Since its beginning, the project has provided intensive training in the National Network’s goal-driven action plan model and associated practices that meet requirements defined by ESEA Title 1 legislation. Partner Districts that choose to participate have continuous access to family and community engagement support services offered by both Johns Hopkins and the Center of Excellence.