- What programs are offered?
Community Schools and Preschool Programs offers before and after school, preschool, fall and spring break programs, and summer programs, and other programs for the school community. See the Before and After School Childcare for programs offered at our schools. - What is a Community School?
A community school is both a place and a set of partnerships between the school and other community resources. Its integrated focus on academics, health and social services, youth and community development and community engagement leads to improved student learning, stronger families and healthier communities. Schools become centers of the community and are open to everyone – all day, every day, evenings and weekends. - What Happens at a Community School?
After school, evenings, Saturdays, and during fall and spring break or over the summer, there may be arts and crafts, cultural enrichment, interest classes, tutoring, child care, or field trips for children; interest classes or recreation for teens; classes in computers, sewing, cake decorating, auto mechanics, high school equivalency, or job training for teens and adults; arts and crafts or interest classes for senior citizens. Also, preschool classes may be offered during the day for young children.In a community school, youth, families and community residents work as equal partners with schools and other community institutions to develop programs and services in five areas:
- Quality education — High-caliber curriculum and instruction enable all children to meet challenging academic standards and use all of the community’s assets as resources for learning.
- Youth development — Young people develop their assets and talents, form positive relationships with peers and adults, and serve as resources to their communities.
- Family support — Family resource centers, early childhood development programs, and coordinated health and social services build on individual strengths and enhance family life.
- Family and community engagement — Family members and other residents actively participate in designing, supporting, monitoring and advocating quality activities in the school and community.
- Community development — All participants focus on strengthening the social networks, economic viability and physical infrastructure of the surrounding community.
Community School Programs
Tucson Unified's Growing Up Tucson offers affordable, high-quality childcare and learning programs for infants, toddlers, and children.
The following programs are specifically designed to serve infants, young children, and school-age children needing before, during, and after school programs:
You'll know your children are in good care in our programs!
Many of our schools offer services during spring break through us and other programs.
Our program includes enrichment learning activities such as arts and crafts, nutrition education, group activities, physical fitness, and field trips (an additional fee may be charged for field trips).
We operate programs at schools throughout the district. Based on enrollment, you will be referred to the program nearest you.

Enjoy the Benefits TUSD Community Schools Offers
$8,100 Childcare Workforce Grant + $7,500 in Retention Stipends (If employed by November 1, 2022)
- Up to $8,100 to be paid in 2 payments (Before taxes; consult your tax preparer)
- Up to $7,500 stipend to be paid in 3 payments (Before taxes; consult your tax preparer)
- Amount varies depending on full-time or part-time employment
Paid by the end of fall semester, must be working in Community School Programs department by 11/1/22 to qualify.
Note: Current employees payment date will be 11/18/22; new employees starting between 10/17-11/1/22 will be paid by 12/30/22.
Payment 2: $4,050
Paid by the end of spring semester, must be working in Community School Programs department by 4/3/23 to qualify.
Note: Current employees payment date will be 4/21/23; new employees starting between 3/21-4/3/23 will be paid by 5/19/23.
Paid by the end of fall semester, must be working in Community School Programs department by 11/1/22 to qualify.
Note: Current employees payment date will be 11/18/22; new employees starting between 10/17-11/1/22 will be paid by 12/30/22.
Payment 2: $2,025
Paid by the end of spring semester, must be working in Community school department by 4/3/23 to qualify.
Note: Current employees payment date will be 4/21/23; new employees starting between 3/21-4/3/23 will be paid by 5/19/23.