PACE research is cited in article about the growing community schools movement. This movement advocates for transforming schools so they become neighborhood hubs that bring together families, educators, government agencies and community groups and organizations to provide all the opportunities and services young people need to thrive. This idea of communities working to improve schooling – and thereby democracy – is a central premise of the growing this movement.
The funding problems of community schools are complex and involve attracting and coordinating a diverse set of public and private investments. In California, community schools, like all public schools, already face shortfalls in per student spending. PACE research estimates that it would take a 38 percent increase in the current $12,204 spent per pupil to meet the goals set by the State Board of Education; approximately $4,686 more per student.