April 2026 – Eastern NYS CSTAC

Stronger Together:
Community Schools in Action at Massena CSD

Topics: Collaborative leadership, shared power and voice; Expanded, enriched learning opportunities; Powerful student and family engagement; Integrated systems of support; Culture of belonging, safety, and care; Rigorous, community-connected classroom instruction

In the Massena Central School District, the Community Schools approach reflects a strong commitment to supporting the whole child. Through meaningful partnerships and creative initiatives, the district has brought together schools, families, and community organizations to create opportunities that help students succeed both inside and outside the classroom.

When local families suddenly found themselves without critical sources of funding, the collaborative spirit of the Massena CSD rose to meet the moment. The Community Schools team mobilized quickly, bringing together an impressive network of community partners to provide meaningful support. Emergency food boxes were distributed through a partnership with The Salvation Army food pantry, while The Home Depot contributed packing supplies and the local fire department volunteered to help load vehicles — ensuring that every family received timely and dignified assistance.

For “Family Game Night,” each family in attendance took home a board game, helping to extend learning outside of the classroom.

Another cornerstone of the district’s commitment to its families is Ready 4 School, an annual community event designed to help students start the school year with confidence. The event brought together nearly 50 local partners who provided free clothing, school supplies, backpacks, and haircuts for families. In a rural community where transportation can be a barrier to accessing services, the event proved invaluable by bringing essential resources directly to families in a single, convenient location. 

Preparing students for life beyond the classroom remains a steadfast priority for Massena CSD. Each year, the district hosts a Job Fair that welcomes approximately 40 local businesses into the school to connect with students seeking summer employment or exploring career pathways after graduation. For many students, this event provides their first opportunity to practice professional skills such as networking and interviewing while building relationships with potential employers in their own community.

Family engagement lies at the heart of the Community Schools strategy at Massena CSD. Events like Family Game Night bring families together in a warm, welcoming school setting to share a meal, play games, and enjoy the simple pleasure of learning side by side. Rooted in the idea that games can nurture mathematical thinking just as books foster a love of reading, the event strikes a natural balance between fun and education — while deepening the bonds between families and their schools.

A student selects her prom dress from Massena CSD’s “Glam Squad Boutique,” providing students access to formal attire at no cost for their special night.

The district also takes meaningful steps to ensure students have access to the essential items they need to thrive. Tucked within the school, The Corner Boutique is a student-led clothing store that offers free clothing and hygiene products in a space designed to feel welcoming and discreet. By empowering students to “shop” for what they need on their own terms, the boutique fosters a sense of dignity, independence, and self-confidence that extends well beyond its walls.

Together, these initiatives — led by Community Schools Coordinator Ms. Emily Kimble — stand as a powerful testament to what strong community partnerships can achieve. Through a shared commitment to supporting students and families, Massena CSD’s Community Schools efforts continue to build a stronger foundation for student success and community well-being.