Jelena: On Finding Strength in a Safe Space
“Ms. Davenport being present changed the trajectory of my senior year.”
For one high school senior, everything shifted the moment she found a safe haven in Ms. Davenport’s room during lunch. What started as a place to hang out quickly became something much deeper—a space where she could be her unabashed self, free from judgment and surrounded by encouragement.
Naomi: Support That Makes a Difference
Naomi, a high school senior, found the support she needed through her Communities In Schools site coordinator, Mrs. Rau. From organizing her schedule and helping her manage stress, to preparing for her driver’s permit with mock tests and paperwork, Mrs. Rau was by Naomi’s side every step of the way.
Roman: On the Importance of Showing Up
Roman is a 2025 graduate with a bright future ahead of them. Roman reflects on lessons learned and the important role that Site Coordinator Jessica Davenport played as a mentor who helped guide them through life’s challenges during high school. Here’s Roman’s story in their own words:
Hudson: From Shy Student to Shining Star
Eighth grader Hudson loves being one of “the twins.” Being an identical twin to his brother, Reed, makes for some funny moments at Mancelona Middle School, particularly when teachers and mentors—like CIS Site Coordinator, Ms. Emily—struggle to tell them apart!
Trinity: Living Above Life’s Challenges
As a middle school student, Trinity faced challenges that many of us can relate to—struggling to find her place among peers, navigating the complexities of growing up, and seeking a sense of belonging. But that all changed when she crossed paths with Haley Nelson, Communities In Schools® (CIS®) of Northwest Michigan site coordinator.
Bria: Finishing Strong
At risk of not finishing high school due to missed days and falling behind on credits, Bria’s path took a hopeful turn when she was referred to CIS of Northwest Michigan® and met Site Coordinator Haley Nelson.
Dominic: Learning Through the Lens of Design
Ms. Shyenne, a CIS site coordinator located at Kalkaska Middle School, knew that seventh grader Dom had hidden talents waiting to be revealed. Eager to bring them to the surface, Ms. Shyenne tapped Dom for a leadership position in Kalkaska Middle School’s Wellness Club.
Connecting the Dots Between Aspirations and Achievements
“I want to become a teacher, but I can’t pay for college.”
“Can you help my mom fill out my FAFSA?”
“I didn’t pass a class! Can I make up the credits and graduate over the summer?”
Fielding big questions–and alleviating heavy worries–are all in a day’s work for Amy Derrer, CIS Program Manager and Site Coordinator at Mancelona High School.
Ryan Finds a Way Forward
Ryan* was struggling academically. His teachers at Mancelona Elementary School suspected that he needed additional support to succeed. So the school reached out to Ryan’s family to authorize a Review of Existing Evaluation Data (REED), a process that formally determines the educational services he needed to flourish. But dad worked long hours, and every attempt to make contact was unsuccessful.
Standing Up and Standing Tall
School used to be a bright spot in Tabby’s* life, but bullying about her appearance made school less enjoyable. Knowing that her CIS Site Coordinator’s door was always open, Tabby looked to Ms. Autumn for advice and affirmation.
