GOALS AND VALUES

The Community Indicator that the Children's Network Strategic Plan intends to improve is: Student attendance in elementary school.

The Committee members clarified the values that they believe will lead to improving elementary school attendance and ultimately improve the opportunities for young people and their families in Santa Cruz County. These values are:

• collaborative, local decision making;
• preventive and early intervention services;
• family-centered, child-focused, strength and asset-based neighborhood services;
• public/ private partnerships;
• services that promote participation of all ethnicities, races, genders and cultures;
• maximize family involvement in decision-making.

• There is a consistent improvement in student attendance over time.
• Every member of the Children's Network knows their role in improving school attendance.
• Parents will feel supported and involved in improving their student's attendance.
• More parents are involved in school activities.
• The Children's Network members employ multiple strategies to address reasons children are not in school.
• Teachers feel supported in the classroom in addressing the behaviors of children that put them at risk for absenteeism.
• The public is well aware of the community goal, values and objectives of the Children's Network.
• Schools are attractive places where children and families are welcome.
• All community partners are involved in supporting this community goal.