This case study examines the complex barriers to success in school and life that many of today’s young people face and suggests strategies to support their holistic needs in an intentional, comprehensive way. Each of the five sites takes an intentional approach to meeting the social, emotional, and situational needs of young people through counseling, family supports, health and wellness programming, or other measures to ensure that students come to school ready to learn and thrive.

In this case study, you will find concrete examples of the ways in which these exemplar states and communities are putting people over programs and establishing structures for holistic support for students. Specifically, the communities highlighted in this brief are prioritizing supports for newcomer English learners, youth with physical and mental health challenges, youth facing the impacts of poverty, and youth experiencing trauma. While these characteristics and conditions do not determine every outcome, they make it difficult for these youth to complete high school even when it is a priority for them, their families, and their support system.

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