We believe every school needs a village—
This year we have some ambitious plans to launch 40+ new villages through the CAFE process.
What’s a CAFE?
The CAFE (Community And Family Engagement) process is a series of trainings, invitations, and a roundtable discussion. It leads to a shared conversation where school leaders and community partners come together to learn what matters most at a school—and how they can work together on solutions.
A CAFE is more than a meeting
A CAFE is more than a single meeting. It’s a catalyst. When people meet around a literal table to hear a real school story—and leave with shared next steps—relationships start to form. And when relationships form, connection, compassion, and capacity start to take root.
We train and coach principals and community partners throughout the process. Our hope is to help schools identify clear goals, and to share best practices around community partnerships.
A real example
At a recent CAFE, a principal shared a goal: create more opportunities for staff to connect with each other, build morale, and strengthen cross-grade relationships.
The initial idea was a luncheon. The principal asked community partners to help make it happen. What grew from that seed was a catered casino night hosted in a local barn. It became a special night where staff were celebrated, had fun together, and felt honored.
This is a picture of what the CAFE process is aiming for: bringing willing people together around a school’s real goals.
We hope to see stories like this all over our city this year as we continue to launch villages. We can’t do this alone. We need partners who are willing to enter these stories as listeners and learners, and then become contributors to the better story being written around our public schools.
You Can Be Part of the Village
Are you a community member from the faith, business, nonprofit, or civic sector who wants to support a local school?
Whether you can volunteer time, share expertise, or show up for a project, there’s a place for you. Learn how you can plug in and make a difference at a school near you.