The Department of Student and Family Engagement (SFE), which launched on July 1, 2022, is a commitment to the Plymouth and Canton communities to improve the learning, development, and health of students and their families. Dr. Liz Vartanian-Gibbs, Assistant Superintendent of Student and Family Engagement has launched this new department to bring innovative ideas, events, and partnerships to the P-CCS District to ultimately ensure a brighter future for its students. SFE is offering monthly newsletters to keep parents informed and up to date in their mission to provide the best resources for each child’s individual needs.
Improving Educational Outcomes
The SFE department was established with a mission to improve the educational outcomes of students and their families. Their goal is to see the whole child and anticipate their needs, ensuring that families are engaged in their student’s education. By providing additional support at a district level, the SFE department seeks to ensure that each student has access to the resources they need for success.
Wraparound Support and Free Programming
The Student and Family Engagement Department within the Plymouth-Canton Community Schools district is proud to offer two types of services to families in the district. The first type of service is ‘wraparound’ support which includes clothing, food, toiletries, and school supplies. This is made possible through partnerships with many local organizations such as the Plymouth-Canton Clothing Bank, the Salvation Army, Plymouth Community United Way, the Kiwanis Club, and the Rotary Club. Additionally, the department offers free programming to families of the P-CCS district such as presentations on parenting, mental health topics, helping children succeed, and wellness events like family yoga and watercolor classes. Information about upcoming events can be found on the P-CCS district website’s Student and Family Engagement page.
The second annual Mental Health and Wellness Fair was held in April 2023 and was a huge success with over 100 vendors and thousands of participants. Students and their families not only gained awareness but also learned about local resources to improve overall wellness.
Working to Make a Positive Impact
The Student and Family Engagement Department is proud to serve the P-CCS community, providing a wide range of support and resources for students, families, and staff. They are committed to creating an engaging atmosphere where families can attend events, provide feedback, and invite others to experience this vital department. The SFE is dedicated to making a positive impact on the lives of those they serve.
Through its focus on KiDS First, the Department of Student and Family Engagement is doing its part to support Plymouth-Canton communities. Offering a range of resources that span from mental health and wellness events to monthly newsletters to additional advocacy and support, SFE offers services that closely align with its mission of improving educational experiences for every student. They’re committed to providing an environment where students and families have an accessible platform to network, develop, and achieve their best potential. With SFEs that are passionate about making a difference, here’s hoping that Plymouth and Canton continue to benefit from the great works of the SFE department.
