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.

Riley: Sharing her Talents Through Giving

When Riley started her 5th grade year, she suffered the loss of her grandfather. The unconditional support from her CIS site coordinator, Lisa Shepperley helped Riley stay on track and inspired her to use her creativity to impact others in a meaningful way

Ashlee: Defeating the Odds to Begin a College Career

Moving to the rural northern Michigan community of Mancelona was a tremendous challenge for Ashlee and her family. Ashlee was born with a visual impairment and diagnosed as legally blind. As a new student, with unique challenges, Ashlee admits

Noah & Owen: An Opportunity to Achieve

Noah and Owen did not graduate with their senior class this past June. They did not meet the traditional definition, or timeline, of a high school graduate.