Community Schools

About Community Schools
In 2009, Brooklyn Center Community Schools became the first Full-Service Community Schools District in the state of Minnesota. We work with families and the community to help ensure all of our scholars are socially, mentally, and physically prepared for an ever-changing world. With over 100 partnerships with community organizations, we’re able to better serve the whole child — eliminating barriers to learning so that each child can freely pursue their potential.
What is a Community School?
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A set of school and community partnerships
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A community hub
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Is open most of the time
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Serves the “whole” child
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Integrated co-located, coordinated & comprehensive services
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Provides access to health & family resources
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Offers educational and support services to families and community members
For more information on Brooklyn Center Community Schools, please contact Renee Starr at 763-561-2120 x2124 or visit the Minnesota Department of Education Community Schools web page.
BCCS Full Service Community Schools Leadership Teams

KEY PRACTICES OF COMMUNITY SCHOOLS IN BCCS
In BCCS, there are six key practices of the Community Schools Framework, including:
Powerful Student & Family Engagement
We work to listen, relate, advocate and affirm, understanding that our role is to be a catalyst for student growth and unity.
Expanded and Enriched Learning Opportunities
We strive to help support life-long learning and access to tools to create a thriving community both inside and outside of the classroom.
Read more about our 21st Century Program Evaluation Report.
Integrated Systems of Supports
Through the support of community partners and programming, we offer a range of services and supports to address academic and nonacademic barriers to students’ education, wellness, and success. Brooklyn Center’s Health Resource Center, located on site, offers free and low-cost medical, dental, vision, and mental health services to the youth of Brooklyn Center Schools and community ages 0-19.
Collaborative Leadership, Shared Power & Voice
We live by a shared vision and practiced shared responsibility to meet the needs of our students and families. With every breath in our bodies, every ounce of influence we possess, and through every challenge, we stand front and center with the young people we love and serve.
Rigorous, Community-Connected Classroom Instruction
We work hard to ensure our students and their experiences are reflected back at them in culturally responsive classroom activities.
Culture of Belonging, Safety & Care
The diverse community of Brooklyn Center is welcomed and valued in our buildings.

We stand front and center: KNOW YOUR RIGHTS
In response to the increasing presence of ICE in our communities, we share the following resources with all families. We are ALL affected by ICE raids that detain and deport our loved ones and neighbors without due process. We stand together against the violent and unlawful separation of families.
The Minnesota Immigrant Rights Action Committee (MIRACMN) is an all-volunteer, grassroots, multiracial, and multinational immigrant rights mass-movement organization. MIRAC fights for legalization for all, an end to immigration raids and deportations, an end to all anti-immigrant laws, and full equality in all areas of life. Learn more on their website.
Red Card Resource (English & Spanish)
For more immigration resources, please reach out to our Community Schools team.
Brooklyn Center Elementary
- 763-561-4480 x6800 (English & Spanish)
Brooklyn Center Middle & High
- 612-270-9956 (English)
- 763-561-2120 x2010 (Spanish)
Early College Academy
- 763-561-2120 x2105 (English)
- 763-450-3383 (Spanish)
