Plumas Charter School is progressing into year two of its California Community Schools Partnership Planning Grant by beginning implementation. This phase is guided by insights from a thorough needs and assets assessment. The Community Schools Model focuses on integrated whole-child-student support, active family and community engagement, expanded enrichment and learning opportunities and collaborative practices to ensure a supportive and inclusive learning environment. The grant aims to eliminate barriers to student success and equity for all students.

A pivotal component of the year’s development is a focus on refining the school’s Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS). This structure for academic and behavioral support aims to create clear and effective processes that can be fine-tuned based on real feedback. To support this initiative, the school created an MTSS handbook, which will serve as a reference to staff on how the support systems will function across all levels. Meanwhile, PCS’ Coordination of Services Team (COST), composed of staff and administrators, works to identify and support families in need of additional resources and services.

This year, Plumas Charter School’s Community Schools Model is centered on a positive behavior support approach that addresses both academic and social-emotional needs. A key initiative is the CARES program, launched in Quincy, which promotes schoolwide expectations through the principles of Choosing Well, Accountability, Respect, Engagement, and Safety. CARES coupons serve as a classroom currency to reinforce positive behavior and recognize students for their contributions to a supportive school environment. Additionally, social-emotional learning has become essential, as teachers incorporate SEL activities into class meetings to provide consistent and accessible emotional support across all grades.

A significant part of PCS’s approach is working with community organizations to enrich learning opportunities and create programs that cater to both students’ interests and local workforce needs. At Indian Valley Academy, partnerships with the local Rotary and the Indian Valley Recreation and Parks District, coordinated by Sue Weber, are developing shared programs that utilize community spaces for a broader benefit.  An exciting update of the school-library hub is taking place with the help of Rotary members and Quincy community member Traci Kepple. 

The culinary program, for example, is gaining traction at both the IVA and Chester sites. During the needs assessment last spring,  IVA and Chester students expressed interest in culinary classes which created creative ideas and brainstorming. Veronica Tilton now teaches culinary arts four days a week at IVA preparing to serve meals for families and the community in the future. Chester students started volunteering at local community supper and from that endeavor, a partnership with Carol’s Cafe in Prattville was introduced. The program not only teaches culinary skills but also addresses the local workforce challenge of retaining employees by providing students with hands-on experience in a real-world setting. A parent of a participating student played a crucial role in helping conceptualize and launch this program, which has already met with enthusiastic support from both students and the community.

Quincy’s freshman class, Get Focused-Stay Focused, has plans to enhance the curriculum with support from local community members by providing training and mentorship. This collaboration will strengthen real life learning, offering students valuable perspectives and skills identified as essential by local business owners.

“By incorporating these strategic steps and fostering dynamic community partnerships, PCS aims to cultivate a well-rounded learning environment where students are encouraged to thrive,” said PCS community resource coordinator Rhonda Wayson. Those interested in joining this mission are encouraged to get involved, as PCS welcomes all stakeholders to serve on the advisory committee that supports the Community Schools Model. The next meeting is Thursday, November 14 at 2:30 p.m. via zoom. 

For more information on programs, to view the MTSS handbook or to inquire about advisory and other committee opportunities, please contact Rhonda Wayson at [email protected].
By Rachel Goings, Public Relations Specialist  [email protected]