Creating Meaningful Community Engagement & Alignment in Butler Area School District

An AASA Learning 2025 Lighthouse Demonstration System Vignette

In the fall of 2024, Butler Area School District was named an AASA Learning 2025 Lighthouse Demonstration System for its work in the area of community alignment.

The Butler Area School District (BASD) is a model for effective community engagement. It seamlessly aligns its educational mission with the broader needs of the community.

Through strategic partnerships, innovative programs, and a commitment to inclusive and student-centered learning, the district has created a robust network that enhances educational outcomes and strengths community ties. Central to this effort is the Community Compact for Children, which serves as a comprehensive foundation for all initiatives, ensuring unified approach to supporting students and families.

At the heart of the district’s success is a deep commitment to listening and responding to its community. In partnership with the Brookings Institution’s Center for Universal Education, the district has led a community engagement process, gathering over 3,000 survey responses and engaging 285 individuals in forums to develop belief maps and a Portrait of a Graduate.

BASD’s partnerships with community organizations further enhance students’ education by connecting them to real world opportunities and support systems. The district is dedicated to strengthening community engagement and expanding partnerships, ensuring continued support for students and families.