Child Poverty Action Lab Community Resource Explorer

Resource and access inequities significantly affect how our kids are able to show up in school. In fact, opportunity and equity gaps are strong predictors of the gaps we see in student achievement. To assess community assets and needs, the Child Poverty Action Lab (CPAL) created the Community Resource Explorer to quantify access to critical resources and provide a comprehensive picture of root causes. 

Dallas ISD used this tool to assess the four highest-need areas in the district and identify locations for the community resource centers approved in the 2020 DISD Bond. These centers will provide wraparound services to students, families, and community members, designed to address their specific needs. 

While this tool focuses on Dallas ISD, it provides a necessary model for quantifying root-cause issues and addressing decades of inequities by providing targeted and equitable support to address community needs that affect students. Additionally, this tool highlights the direct link between underserved communities and impeded student achievement.