Why Community Engagement Is in My Teacher Toolbox

Connections to clubs, teams, and organizations can be the glue that holds students to school and imparts the skills and qualities that are core educational goals, says Outstanding Young Educator Brad Kuntz in his latest "In the Classroom With . . ." column.

Consider that academic eligibility requirements and adult guidance from coaches and other organization leaders can be a strong lever to motivate student achievement. In addition, students practice time management, collaborate toward shared goals, and engage in work for authentic audiences.

But what do you do when students seem apathetic and disinterested in taking advantage of opportunities beyond the regular school day? Kuntz says that he assumes students lack awareness and haven't been invited to participate. Keeping a list of students' interests and potential matches to either relevant activities or caring adult leaders they might connect with is Kuntz's first step.

He then reaches out to the student and the adult leader to introduce the potential match. He follows up on whether the student pursues involvement, sometimes walking students to meetings or practices to help ease the transition.

Community engagement is a cornerstone of Kuntz's teaching practice. Have you seen similar benefits?