Community schools are a sound education reform strategy that gets results. They start by asking local students and their families what they need to succeed in school, then they reach out to relevant community partners and use the school as the hub for organizing partnerships, services, and supports. By listening closely to the assets and needs of students and their families, community schools also develop trusting relationships and build support for the core work of education. Researchers believe that community schools can help improve attendance, reduce dropouts, and close the achievement gap.