A strong education system is the backbone of a thriving community. While schools are primarily managed at the district and state levels, mayors have a powerful role in shaping policies, programs and partnerships that support students’ success. From expanding afterschool opportunities to advocating for education funding, city leaders can take meaningful steps to enhance learning experiences for all children.
Below, explore five impactful ways mayors can support K-12 education in their communities.
1. Expand Afterschool and Summer Learning Opportunities
High-quality programs outside of school hours keep kids engaged, help working families and improve academic outcomes. Mayors can:
- Advocate for funding to increase access to afterschool and summer programs.
- Partner with libraries, community centers and local businesses to provide enrichment activities.
- Partner with school districts to utilize city-owned spaces to host learning opportunities for students.
2. Build Career Pathways for the Future Workforce
Helping students gain real-world experience and job skills sets them up for long-term success. Mayors can:
- Collaborate with local businesses to offer internships, apprenticeships and career mentoring.
- Support career and technical education (CTE) programs that prepare students for in-demand jobs.
- Create city-sponsored workforce initiatives to connect students with employment and training opportunities, including pathways into municipal careers
3. Tackle Chronic Absenteeism and Student Engagement
Regular attendance is key to academic success, yet chronic absenteeism has risen dramatically in recent years. Mayors can:
- Launch citywide attendance campaigns and issue a proclamation emphasizing the importance of school attendance.
- Address barriers like transportation, food insecurity and housing instability that keep students from attending and actively participating.
- Recognize and celebrate schools and students making progress in improving attendance.
4. Improve School Safety and Infrastructure
Students need safe, well-maintained learning environments to thrive. Mayors can:
- Work with school districts and public safety offices to ensure campuses remain safe and supportive.
- Address transportation challenges by improving routes and expanding public transit options for students.
- Invest in infrastructure improvements, such as modern classrooms, reliable heating and cooling systems and upgraded technology.
5. Advocate for Education Funding and Policy Support
Mayors have a strong platform to push for policies and resources that benefit students and schools. They can:
- Lobby state and federal leaders for increased K-12 education funding.
- Champion initiatives that expand early childhood education and literacy programs.
- Ensure city budgets allocate resources for youth programs, mental health services and other education-supporting initiatives.
While mayors may not directly oversee school districts in their communities, they play a critical role in shaping the educational landscape of their cities. By fostering partnerships, advocating for funding and addressing systemic challenges, they can create lasting positive change for students and families.
Funding Afterschool Programs
Explore a resource that outlines the role municipal leaders can play in securing long-lasting and sustainable funding for afterschool and summer learning programs, including funding from both the federal and state levels. Private funding is also addressed as is a set of best practices for municipalities looking to secure reliable funding.
About the Author
