SUPPORT NMCAA The Collective Us podcast, hosted by Erica Austin and Ryan Buck, features a discussion on the School Success Partnership program, which focuses on improving student achievement through collaboration among schools, families, and community action. Guests included Amy Cannon, NMCAA School Success Program Coordinator, and Dorothy Pintar, Northeast Michigan Community Service Agency (NEMSCA), Community Programs Director. Dorothy explained the program's origins, tracing its roots back 33 years to a community needs assessment that identified school failure as a common factor among families facing chronic poverty, unemployment, and other challenges. Developed as a preventative, non-intrusive initiative, the program removes barriers to academic success without income-based restrictions. It has since grown from a single truancy-based position into a comprehensive support system spanning ten counties, supported by a $3.8 million budget and a team of 59 staff members. The program’s success has led to significant reductions in truancy and improved outcomes for families and schools, with expansion efforts continuing across Michigan. Dorothy highlighted the role of relationship-building and community investment in the program's success, while Amy underscored the increasing need for such initiatives, particularly in light of challenges like chronic absenteeism exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. Together, they reflected on the program's transformative impact and the importance of supporting students at every stage of their educational journey.
