Date

12-2025

Document Type

Capstone Project (Open Access)

Degree Name

Bachelor of Science (B.S.)

Department

Health, Human Services and Public Policy

Major

Collaborative Health and Human Services

Abstract

The North Monterey County Unified School District (NMCUSD) in Castroville, California, serves a student population in which 87.5% are identified as low-income and nearly half are designated as English Language Learners. Families face significant barriers to accessing educational and community resources, barriers worsened by limited digital literacy and technology access. The NMCUSD Castro Plaza Family Resource Center serves as a vital hub supporting families in the predominantly rural and socioeconomically disadvantaged region. This project aimed to strengthen family engagement and digital inclusion through hands-on workshops. Workshop topics included online student registration and data verification, training on essential district digital tools and resources such as the ParentVUE Portal, TalkingPoints communication platform, and the state CalKIDS scholarship account claim process. In collaboration with the district’s Family and Community Engagement Team, the initiative supported 394 families and helped 470 students complete online registration, improving data accuracy and funding access. Results demonstrated that culturally responsive, relationship-based support significantly increased family participation and confidence in technology use. NMCUSD is encouraged to continue investing in digital literacy, outreach, and community partnerships to advance equity and support ongoing family engagement.

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