The Whole Child Approach

The Ohio Department of Education released a strategic plan titled Each Child, Our Future as the foundational guide for the Ohio Department of Education and the State Board of Education. Among the strategies in Each Child, Our Future is to “work together with parents, caregivers, and community partners to help schools meet the needs of the whole child.” This strategy emerged from a deep recognition that, “unless the whole child is considered and supported, the conditions for learning are less than optimal. A whole-child approach to education is grounded in research and ensures students are healthy, safe, engaged, supported, and challenged. A core principle is the important role of partnerships and how they transform the educational experience."

Disadvantaged on the rise

The percentage of students identified as economically disadvantaged has increased over the past 10 years. (Ohio identifies students as “economically disadvantaged” via federal meal programs qualification)

40% of students

40% of students from small towns are economically disadvantaged.

Effecting Everyone

Students living in urban areas come from various racial and ethnic backgrounds, and more than eight in ten are identified as economically disadvantaged.

Feeling disconnected

1/4 of all students report feeling disconnected from the school and communities. 40% of students say they have not been offered any social or emotional support by an adult from their school