The Role of Community Members
Because of the specific mission of Pilot Schools, their small, personalized nature, and the structure of their governing boards, community involvement tends to go beyond what is typical in most schools. Community members involved in Pilot Schools engage in advocacy, fundraising, and volunteer activities. Many Pilot Schools have formal partnerships with community, business, and higher education organizations, and make internships a formal part of their curriculum. Pilot Schools engage in building partnerships and leveraging resources for their schools. In some schools, governing boards and separate 501(c)(3) organizations support principals with these tasks.
   The Mason Pilot Elementary School has formed partnerships with local businesses, foundations, and nonprofits to increase the school’s budget and provide students with: a new computer lab; science education starting in prekindergarten; music, art, and dance instruction; swimming; and after-school programs. The before- and after-school programs allow students to be at school from 7:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. “We’re a full-service school,” stated Principal Janet Palmer-Owens.