High Point Elementary School has officially been designated as a Maryland Community School, a milestone that school leaders say will open the door to stronger partnerships and expanded support for students and families.
Currently, the elementary school serves more than 600 students. The new designation comes after three consecutive years in which more than 55 percent of families qualified for free and reduced-price meals, a measure tied to household income.
For Community School Program Manager Tara Luecking, the designation is both recognition of need and an opportunity for action.
“Being named a community school allows us to deepen our partnerships with families, local organizations and community members,” Luecking said. “It ensures that every child has access to the resources and support they need to thrive academically, socially and emotionally.”
As part of the initiative, the school is launching the High Point Community Care Fund, a dedicated effort to meet everyday needs that can sometimes stand in the way of student success.
The fund will provide basic school supplies, healthy snacks to keep students focused during the day and in after-school clubs, and clothing such as coats, gloves and undergarments when needs arise. It will also help cover field trip costs so every child can participate, provide hygiene kits for students, and supply social-emotional tools and resources.
In addition, the fund will offer gift certificates so students can purchase books during upcoming Scholastic Book Fairs, ensuring that all children have the opportunity to build home libraries and foster a love of reading.
School leaders are now reaching out to local businesses to help bring the Community Care Fund to life. Contributions of any size will go directly toward supporting High Point students and helping them feel included, valued and prepared to learn.
Businesses that partner with the school will be recognized in school communications, at events and in newsletters, creating a visible connection between the school and the broader Pasadena business community.
Luecking said the goal is simple: remove barriers so students can focus on being kids and learners.
“When a child has what they need, whether it’s a warm coat, a full stomach or a book of their own, it makes a real difference,” she said. “We are grateful for a community that cares.”
Businesses interested in contributing to the High Point Community Care Fund or learning more about the school’s community school initiatives can contact Tara Luecking at 667-299-5558 or tluecking@aacps.org.
