Strong Neighborhoods, Strong Schools: Case Study: Logan Square Neighborhood Association

Logan Square Neighborhood Association (LSNA), started in the early 1960s, is a multi-issue organization with a diverse constituency reflecting the make-up of this racially and economically varied neighborhood. LSNA’s work is guided by a Holistic Plan, revised annually, which includes goals and strategies for improving local public schools, maintaining affordable housing, revitalizing the local economy, developing youth leadership, and enhancing neighborhood safety. LSNA’s work in education organizing began in the early 1990s with a challenging but productive campaign against school overcrowding. This campaign laid the groundwork for LSNA’s subsequent initiatives to improve schools by building connections between schools and the community. This report discusses LSNA’s achievements in the indicator areas of community power, social capital, school climate, and leadership development. Major accomplishments have included: developing a Parent-Teacher Mentor Program (with over 840 parent graduates) which helps parents to develop skills, provides parent assistance in the classroom, and improves communication between teachers and parents; creating Community Learning Centers in six schools, which offer educational and recreational opportunities for entire families and strengthen ties between the school and the community; and involving school personnel (teachers and principals) in the community through membership in LSNA, participation on LSNA’s committees, and a program developed jointly by LSNA and local banks to help teachers buy homes in the neighborhood.