Blog

In the midst of the COVID-19 crisis, America Forward Coalition organizations are working tirelessly to connect students, families, educators, workers, elected leaders, and advocates with critical tools, information, and resources. We are inspired by our Coalition members as they step up to support communities across the country during this difficult and uncertain time. 

Every week, we’ll be highlighting a few examples of the critically important work being done by the members of the America Forward Coalition. If your organization has resources, an announcement, or a story that you would like to see included, please send it to america_forward@newprofit.org. 

America’s Promise: Supporting High School Students Affected by COVID-19

The crisis is having a profound impact on high school students, who are losing months of learning time that is critical to their growth and development. For seniors, the picture is particularly challenging, because they are missing out on opportunities to finish required courses for achieving a high school diploma, decide on plans for continuing their education, and submit financial aid or other requests (not to mention graduation celebrations and other end-of-year observances). To help high schoolers, educators, and families navigate this turbulent moment, America’s Promise has put together a list of considerations and frequently asked questions for students – specifically seniors – during this crisis. Find the full suite of resources here. 

Transcend: Equitable Distance Learning for Young Children

Prior to the COVID-19 crisis, Transcend worked with the Magnolia Montessori For All public charter lab school in Austin, Texas, to explore ways in which Montessori education can be applied to achieve equitable outcomes for all students. Based on this research and experience, Transcend has created a guide for how to implement equitable distance learning during the COVID-19 crisis. Find their full list of key takeaways here. 

Springboard Collaborative: Engaging Ways to Nurture Reading During the Crisis

To support children and families who are pursuing distance learning during COVID-19, Springboard Collaborative has created a Reading Tips Bingo card. The card features a variety of ways to engage both children and adults as they read and learn from home amid the current crisis. The card is available on Springboard’s Twitter account.

Enterprise: Urgent Social Service Support for Families

In the midst of the COVID-19 outbreak, many families are struggling to remain in their homes and access critical services. To help ensure stability and support for those most at-risk, Enterprise has established the Emergency Action for Resident and Partner Stability program, which will provide community nonprofits with grant funding and relevant resources to help them weather this crisis and continue to support the families and individuals they serve. Find more information about the program here.

Turnaround for Children: Addressing COVID-related Trauma in Children

As the devastating consequences of the COVID-19 crisis impact individuals, families, schools and communities, guidance on how to understand and address the resulting  trauma is especially important. In a recent blog post, Dr. Pamela Cantor and Kate Felsen from Turnaround for Children share key tips for how to support children who are experiencing trauma. Find their full list of tips here. 

Stay tuned for more highlights of heroic work being done by America Forward Coalition members. 

Photo by Perry Grone on Unsplash