COMMUNITY SCHOOL LEARNING EXCHANGE

At United Way Community Schools, some of the most meaningful moments are the ones that show just how much relationships matter.

At Edison Elementary, a United Way Community School, families are helping shape what it means to be part of their school community.

Leaders from education, business and the nonprofit community came together for the Manufacturer & Business Association’s Executive Speaker Series to highlight the work happening at Erie High School to prepare students for life after graduation.

This week is Community School Director Appreciation Week, and we’re celebrating the people at the heart of United Way Community Schools.

On October 13, 2026  United Way of Erie County will bring together partners, educators, supporters and community members for Assembly 2026: Community Schools in Action at the Bayfront Convention Center.

Across United Way Community Schools last week, the red carpets rolled out as students made their way through the front doors for a new school year.

School is back in session, and for many Erie’s Public Schools students, that means walking to and from school each day. Transportation is not able to be provided for elementary and middle school students who live within 1.5 miles of their school, or Erie High students who live within 2 miles.

Kindergarten readiness isn't only knowing how to share with classmates or count to 10. Sometimes, it's knowing where the bathroom is. It's practicing raising your hand. It's walking through the cafeteria. It's meeting the adults you'll see every day. And sometimes, it's learning that Mom or Dad won't always be right beside you.

A grocery store. Most of us think of it as just another stop on our weekly routine. It's where we pick up the food our families need, and then we're on our way. But sometimes we don't stop to think about the impact a grocery store can have on an entire community.

United Way Community School Directors are at the heart of the Community School Model. Every day, they connect schools with community partners, build relationships with students, support families through challenges, and create opportunities that help students inside and outside the classroom.

Behind every successful United Way Community School is a network of partners working together to support students and families.  That's where the partnership between United Way Community Schools and Second Harvest Food Bank of Northwest Pennsylvania comes in.

Glasses. For some of us, they’re second nature. Others may never needed them. But as technology use continues to grow, vision concerns among children are becoming more common.

As another school year comes to a close, we want to recognize three retiring principals who have been strong supporters and champions of the United Way Community School Model. Their leadership has helped create school environments where students, families, staff, and Community School Directors can work together to meet the unique needs of each school community.

At Pfeiffer-Burleigh Elementary, a United Way Community School, helping families feel connected doesn't stop at the school doors.

Recently, United Way of Erie County staff had the opportunity to present at two notable conferences, sharing lessons learned, best practices, and expertise developed through years of implementing and supporting the Community Schools Model in Erie County.

At United Way Community Schools' 3rd Annual Leadership Retreat, more than 225 student leaders from 17 schools showed us the answer.

McKinley Elementary, a United Way Community School, hosted its annual Color Blast Party, bringing together more than 400 students and family members for an afternoon full of color, connection, and community.

Teacher Appreciation Week was recently...but supporting teachers goes far beyond a single week of recognition.