A Community Partnership is the focal point for consolidating decision-making for children and families at the county or school district level. It builds bridges across stakeholders, bringing together those who have a legal mandate to provide for the well-being of citizens (such as local government, school boards, and public agencies), as well as parents, private citizens, businesses, and religious and neighborhood organizations.
Community Partnerships function as "parent boards" for neighborhood-based groups or councils. These neighborhood-based groups make decisions about the design and delivery of school-linked services for their children and families. the broad, community-wide representation of Community Partnerships can help these neighborhood-based groups develop service strategies that build on existing strengths and investments in the broader community.
Councils and Partnerships have very similar functions and responsibilities. The primary difference is the geographical scope. There are multiple councils within a Community Partnership.