For nearly 50 years, Communities In Schools® (CIS®) has worked inside schools to surround students with a community of support, empowering them stay in school and achieve in life.
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In the News
Explore articles that showcase how Communities In Schools helps students succeed in school, prepare for the future and thrive.
Nearly 200 student stories reveal what AI can’t replace: relationships
Youth Today | May 13, 2026The program that’s turning schools around
The Atlantic | Jan. 28, 2026Being Present Matters: The fight to end chronic absenteeism
Communities In Schools | Sept. 30, 2024The epidemic of absenteeism
Good Morning America | Aug. 28, 2024
Impact Stories
Explore the stories that showcase how Communities In Schools helps students succeed in school, prepare for the future and thrive.
Preparing for a Successful School Year Starts Before the First Bell
Learn how Zowee helps students start the school year feeling connected, supported, and ready to succeed.
Read more of Preparing for a Successful School Year Starts Before the First BellA Chance Encounter Changed Leanna's Life
Learn how CIS changed Leanna’s path, fueling her journey to leadership and community impact.
Read more of A Chance Encounter Changed Leanna's LifeConnection Changes Everything
When John entered Lincoln Leadership Academy Charter School as a junior, everything felt new and overwhelming. After years of online schooling, crowded hallways, full classrooms, and challenging subjects made it difficult for him to connect with peers, teachers, and even his own learning.
Read more of Connection Changes EverythingWhen a Neighborhood Invests in Its Schools—And Schools Invest Back
As a Purpose-Built Communities network organization, Growing Together serves as a neighborhood "quarterback," aligning partners and strategy around a shared local vision. Its work spans housing, economic development, education, early childhood, and community leadership. A key part of that work is its licensed partnership with Communities In Schools (CIS).
Read more of When a Neighborhood Invests in Its Schools—And Schools Invest BackA Day in the Life of a CIS Site Coordinator: Shelby Clements
At Communities In Schools, our Site Coordinators are on the front lines every day, helping students navigate challenges, build skills, and thrive in school. For Shelby Clements, a Site Coordinator at CIS of the Dallas Region, every day is a balance of flexibility, support, and relationship-building.
Read more of A Day in the Life of a CIS Site Coordinator: Shelby ClementsInvesting in Students and Strengthening Families: CIS and Montgomery Public Schools in Action
Learn about our licensed partnership with Montgomery Public Schools and dive into the impact happening at Southlawn Middle School.
Read more of Investing in Students and Strengthening Families: CIS and Montgomery Public Schools in ActionEsteban: A Full Circle Moment
In November, Marco and Esteban were invited to attend CIS Nevada's annual fundraiser as guests and featured speakers. During the event, Esteban shared a beautiful speech about his experience in CIS, and as a CIS alum. CIS of Nevada also showcased their involvement in the “Being Present Matters” campaign and roles as the faces of the national PSA promotion.
Read more of Esteban: A Full Circle MomentBeyond Backpacks: CIS Welcomes Students Back with Community Support
As Communities In Schools (CIS) prepares to welcome students and staff back for a new school year full of possibilities, affiliates are partnering with school administrators to build a roadmap to success. CIS site coordinators are stocking their offices with essential supplies to show up for students every day, and CIS staff are taking stock of what students still need to start the year confident and ready to learn.
Read more of Beyond Backpacks: CIS Welcomes Students Back with Community Support