As part of a commitment to "Continuous Learning and Improvement," outlined in the Community Schools Steering Committee (CSSC) bylaws, members recognized the importance of gaining deeper insights into the experiences and challenges of Community School Coordinators (CSCs) in implementing the community schools model at their respective schools. To address this need, the CSSC decided to conduct empathy interviews. Using a one-on-one, open-ended questioning format proved successful, encouraging participants to candidly share stories and specific experiences, thereby fostering a more inclusive and human-centered approach to improving school systems.

The purpose of empathy interviews is twofold: firstly, to gain a comprehensive understanding of the experiences, needs and strengths of community school implementers within the CSI; and, secondly, to utilize insights to inform continuous improvement efforts, strengthening support systems and prioritizing professional development and coaching opportunities, enhancing individual and collective efficacy.

The interviews were offered voluntarily to Cohort 1 through 4 CSCs and principals and were launched in mid-January following the district's winter break. UNITE-LA coordinated the recruitment and training of volunteers to serve as empathy interviewers. Volunteers received a standardized protocol, including instructions, an opening script, a list of questions and interviewing norms, to ensure consistency and rigor in the data collection process. In total, 33 CSCs and 10 principals participated.

Following the interviews, UNITE-LA conducted comprehensive data analysis, identifying common themes, implications and recommendations from the responses. Transcribed responses underwent rigorous scrutiny, synthesis and coding based on key thematic elements, followed by categorization into overarching themes identified through keyword analysis.

Key thematic findings include:

• Both CSCs and principals find fulfillment in making a positive impact on students, families and staff. They value collaboration with stakeholders to shape school culture and achieve positive outcomes. Advocating for underrecognized students and providing resources are central to their roles.
• Balancing multiple responsibilities and navigating bureaucratic district processes are common challenges. Implementing new initiatives and managing change effectively in the face of capacity constraints are areas of frustration. Communication and collaboration hurdles persist in effectively engaging stakeholders and clarifying roles.
• Both CSCs and principals seek recognition for the complexity of their roles and the depth of their involvement in prioritizing initiatives and programs that enhance student success and meet diverse student needs. They underscore the importance of effective community engagement and collaboration as pivotal to achieving their goals. Additionally, they advocate for clarifying expectations and supporting innovative approaches beyond district mandates. Building trust and fostering strong relationships within the school community are seen as indispensable for reaching common objectives.

The summative report and key findings were presented at the May 2024 CSSC meeting, where additional feedback and recommendations were gathered to inform next steps. Moving forward, UNITE-LA will continue to collaborate with the CSI Planning Team and CSSC to utilize collected data in an action plan to enhance existing structures, systems and supports. Efforts will also advocate for community school implementation and system transformation in the upcoming 2024-25 school year.

For more information, please reach out to Jenny Vu, Director of Education Systems Strategy, at [email protected].