2022-2023 School Year Statistics
Big Impact. Big Results.
Communities In Schools is a learning organization committed to ongoing use of data and research to improve practice and drive positive outcomes for the schools and students it serves. To this end, CIS has invested in third-party evaluations to validate the CIS model and help build an evidence base for Integrated Student Supports. This third-party evaluation conducted by MDRC as part of the Social Innovation Fund found evidence of positive effects of Integrated Student Supports and case management for at-risk students and low performing schools. Additionally, MDRC provided recommendations that have been embraced by CIS to improve practice and upgrade its standards under the Total Quality System.
Sharing Our Successes
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.
“I appreciate the CIS Site Coordinator at my son’s school! She took on the responsibility of checking in with him daily and if it wasn’t for her there is no way I could keep him on task while he is at school. Not only does the Site Coordinator help him get his work done, she understands how he thinks and what he needs to be productive. My son told me he feels comfortable with the Site Coordinator and that’s huge as he is a quiet kid and doesn’t connect with many adults.”
A Grateful Parent
