Build Back Better': Building School-Community Partnerships for Vulnerable Students During the COVID-19 Pandemic

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic has affected many students around the world. The Indonesian government responded with school closures and the transition into distance learning. However, the Ministry of Communication and Information announced that there were 12,548 villages which did not have internet access and that electronic devices were unavailable for students from less well-off families. This study aimed to employ a non-empirical research methodology to highlight the importance of carrying out non-technological educational strategies by forming partnerships between schools and communities in vulnerable communities. The model of school-community partnership was carried out by forming small study groups in a neighborhood. Learning was assisted by teachers and volunteer tutors. This learning innovation was formed to provide equal opportunities for vulnerable students who were unable to perform online learning. Through such approaches we can rebuild education for those who were left behind as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Keywords: community engagement, COVID-19, school partnership, vulnerable student