Creativity, Connection and Care at United Way Community Schools in the Easton Area School District
In the Easton Area School District, United Way Community Schools are spaces where students, families and partners connect to make learning possible. Community School Coordinators lead this work, making sure children have the resources, opportunities and encouragement they need to thrive in and out of the classroom.
“Our Community Schools, with some of the most challenges, are showing the most growth, outpacing other schools statewide supported by the systems CSCs build alongside our educators, families and community partners,” said Khushboo Jain, Director of the United Way’s Community School Network.
Over the years, Easton Area School District has embraced the Community School model to ensure every student is ready to learn and successful in school, so they graduate ready for life, college or career. From after-school activities to family engagement, Easton schools have created safe and supportive environments where learning thrives.
These stories represent the kinds of initiatives Easton Community Schools have led in recent years, illustrating how coordinators continually find new ways to support learning and connection.
Learning beyond the classroom
Cheston Elementary School partnered with the American Heart Association for the Healthy Heart Challenge and Jump Rope for Heart. Students learned about heart health and lifestyle choices while raising more than $1,800 for awareness.
At Paxinosa Elementary School, Crayola marked its 10th anniversary of partnership by donating supplies, iPads and classroom carts to create “Imagination Stations.” These new spaces promote creativity and imagination through audio storytelling.
Paxinosa also welcomed Easton Police officers through the Blue Buddies Program. Each week, students engaged in STEAM activities before school while building relationships with neighborhood officers.
Families connected and supported
Every summer, the West Ward Market offers fresh produce to families, with SNAP benefits accepted. The Market also hosts the popular Zucchini 500, where children design and race zucchini cars.
At Paxinosa, the parent-family liaison continues to run bilingual English classes with support from Lafayette College students. The program is open not only to families in the district but also to community members who want to strengthen their language skills.
Celebrating students and building pride
Paxinosa alumni return each year to walk the halls, reconnect with teachers and inspire current students by sharing their paths beyond graduation.
Cheston created “calming beads,” a sensory tool that students can use throughout the school day. Worn on lanyards, the beads help children manage stress and stay focused.
Cheston also hosted its “Back to School Haircut” event, where local hairstylists provided free haircuts, supplies and encouragement for students to start the year with confidence.
Community partnerships in action
Cheston held a staff vs. students basketball game, with Crayola donating team shirts to add to the fun.
As part of the Volunteer Challenge Project of the Lehigh Valley, Klunk & Millan Advertising designed a “Zen Den” for Cheston staff. What was once a storage space became a calming oasis for staff to recharge, complete with inspirational messages left by the volunteers.
Thank you to the Easton Community School Coordinators for creating opportunities that strengthen schools, families and neighborhoods. Your dedication helps students feel supported, engaged and ready to succeed.