Beyond high-quality, welcoming schools that prepare them for life, all young people deserve a city that nurtures their personal potential. In addition to the nutritious food, accessible healthcare, stable housing, safe communities, and strong transportation students need, we must lay the foundation for students to succeed in and out of the classroom with 

• Out of school time (OST) funding, programming, and access to give students joyful and rigorous learning experiences to find their passions in life, 

• School-based mental health services that allow students to manage stress, trauma, and emotional challenges that can interfere with learning, and 

• Safe passage initiatives to help ensure kids arrive at school safely and on time every day. 

Investments in the whole child can lead to better attendance, especially crucial as midyear attendance data from last school year suggests chronic absenteeism has increased, especially in wards where large shares of English language learners attend school. Achievement happens when the whole child is supported, and we must continue to invest in creative solutions that remove barriers to attendance and promote a sense of belonging and engagement. Students who feel loved, challenged, and prepared show up ready to learn, and their success fuels the future of our city.