You are at the right place. This webpage is for districts to find the right resources to connect their students and families. This page was created because of the CARES project which was to identify, engage, support, and ultimately meet the needs of Ohio’s most vulnerable students and their families.

What are the seven vulnerable population groups?  Listed below are the seven vulnerable population groups that the federal Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) created because these groups are perceived to be disproportionately affected by COVID-19 and other systemic factors that negatively impact educational achievement.   Our Family and Community Liaison was able to identify gaps in services that students and families need to be successful and put in this document.   While it may not have every tool possible, it does lead our families and students to resources.

Carrie Sullivan serves as the ESC of NEO Family and Community Engagement Liaison. With over 38 years of experience in education, Carrie has been helping students, parents and teachers find resources! With her expertise, she can guide districts in implementing effective parent engagement and community partnership strategies that serve all youth but specifically our community’s most vulnerable.

Another big part of her job is networking with various agencies in the area.  One of the biggest networks is our Family and Community Engagement Network (FACE).  This group meets once a month to support and learn from each other.  Please feel free to join our meetings. Please reach out -

Carrie Sullivan
[email protected]
216-264-1636

Contact Denise, with our System Navigator at the ESC of Northeast Ohio who can assist you in providing link, navigation and consultations around any of these resources, services, and support.  More information and summary of services listed below.

System Navigation
System Navigation One Page Summary


For System Navigation help, contact:
Denise Pietrzak, MSSA, LISW-S
Student Wellness Coordinator/System Navigator
ESC of Northeast Ohio
[email protected]
216-525-2524 (office)
216-524-3863 (fax)