BP 1020Youth Services

The Board recognizes that children who come to school with unmet physical, social, and emotional needs are unable to devote themselves to learning. Our future depends upon these children becoming literate, independent, and productive citizens. The Board believes that all aspects of a child's welfare must become our society's top priority.

The Board realizes that local schools alone cannot meet our children's complex individual needs. The schools have, therefore, a legitimate interest in cooperating with public and private agencies that provide day care, nutrition, and health services for children. The victims of homelessness, exploitation, substance abuse and child abuse may need multiple services which should be coordinated in order to avoid gaps, duplication, or delay. Schools, local government, businesses, foundations, and charitable organizations all must work together to improve conditions for our community's youth.

Children have a right to have their physical, emotional, and intellectual needs met. The Board supports public policies which respect children by meeting their needs. The Board will advocate for local, state and national public and private policies, legislation and programs designed to provide or better coordinate services that help children to make the most of their educational opportunities.