The Department of Opportunity Youth builds the capacity of schools for the success of all students. Core to its work, the department strategizes with schools on addressing the effects of barriers faced by opportunity youth: students confronting specific challenges such as those causing inconsistent school attendance, those associated with housing instability, and when there is illness, resulting in the need for home and hospital instruction.

To build capacity, the department functions as a thought partner and arranges regular professional development events for school staff designed to increase knowledge and skills in the areas that present as barriers to student learning. These opportunities are offered in addition to ongoing referrals to services available across the school district and through external partners, as well as services provided directly to students and families.

The following summarizes services the department offers. 

• Identifying student needs and providing referral services and/or case management

• Arranging professional development for school staff and parent groups

• Connecting schools to best practices, resources, and partnerships

• Conducting referrals to educational and social services

• Providing tutoring services through the Home & Hospital Instruction Program