What IS an FCRC Anyway?
When we talk about the work of the Foundation for Vancouver Public Schools, we often mention Family-Community Resource Coordinators—or FCRCs. And that’s usually when people look confused.
“What does FCRC stand for?”
“Are they counselors?”
“What’s the connection between FCRCs and the Foundation?”
All great questions which we are happy to break down.
A little context…
The Foundation for Vancouver Public Schools (FVPS) is a nonprofit organization that exists adjacent to the Vancouver Public School District (VPS). Our mission is to mobilize community resources to remove barriers and support equitable education opportunities so that all students have the tools they need to succeed.
We do this by seeking donations from individuals, local businesses, grantmakers, and corporate sponsors to support programs that directly benefit VPS students. One of our largest areas of investment? Supporting the essential work of FCRCs.
So…what is an FCRC?
FCRCs are not Foundation employees—they are VPS staff, embedded in schools as part of the Community Schools Department. Their job? To remove non-academic barriers to learning by connecting students and families with the supports they need—whether it’s food, housing assistance, hygiene supplies, mental health resources, or simply someone to listen.
From Carla Feltz, Family Engagement and Technical Assistance Coordinator at Community Schools:
“A Family-Community Resource Coordinator is an advocate for students and families, a connection point to support and resources in the community, and a safe, caring adult. They are an integral VPS staff member in the Community Schools Department.”
Each FCRC serves a VPS school (assigned based on the school’s Free and Reduced Lunch rate—a federal indicator of poverty). In schools without a full-time FCRC, our two mobile coordinators step in to provide support across multiple sites.
While the school district employs FCRCs, the Foundation largely funds the work they do. Our financial support allows them to provide for basic needs, enrich student learning, and engage families in ways that go far beyond what public funding allows.
Okay, so what do they do?
The short answer: Whatever it takes to make sure students are ready to learn.
Some of the challenges students face go far beyond the classroom. FCRCs step in to manage issues like food insecurity, unstable housing, or a lack of basic necessities—so that teachers can teach, principals can lead, and students can thrive.
Their work isn’t just reactive—it’s also proactive. FCRCs organize after-school programs, lead family engagement events, connect students with enrichment opportunities, and build community partnerships that benefit their entire school.
In their words: Why FCRCs love what they do.
We asked a few of our FCRCs what they love most about their role. Here’s what they shared:
Jennifer Beeks, FCRC at Minnehaha Elementary
“In my role, I get to stand with people in the muck, present possibilities of a path out, and the persistence to walk alongside them. How beautiful to have a job where you are the conduit between the generosity of others and the gratitude of those in need. I may not solve every problem, but I make sure no one walks away feeling unseen, unheard, unloved, or unvalued.”
Amalia Franco, FCRC at King Elementary
“As a VPS graduate, I love giving back to the community that shaped who I am. Helping out the same schools I once attended is a great accomplishment.”
Merrit Hitzeman, FCRC at Hudson’s Bay
“The best part of being an FCRC is the relationships—meeting students and families where they are and supporting them in their next steps.”
The Bottom Line
FCRCs are the frontline problem-solvers, community connectors, and compassionate leaders in our schools, and we work to provide the funds needed to help students.
Together, we ensure that all students—regardless of their circumstances—have what they need to learn, grow, and succeed.
So the next time you hear someone ask, “What IS an FCRC anyway?” you’ll know the answer:
They’re the heartbeat of our schools!
-Leah Middleton, FVPS Communications Coordinator
