The importance and potential of community partnerships in urban schools in an era of high-stakes accountability

In today’s era of increased accountability and standards-based reforms within the United States educational system, Community Partner Organizations (CPOs) can offer essential support to teachers, schools, and districts. CPOs have the potential to have a positive impact in urban schools in particular, where high-stakes testing and accountability policies are often more demanding and the threat of school closure or turnaround is the everyday reality for teachers who are under enormous pressure to improve student outcomes. Collaborative social relationships between schools and community organizations can facilitate school improvement, combat social and economic barriers, and meet the increasing demands of local, state, and federal accountability policies.