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By James Davis In Rowan County, the dedicated team at Communities In Schools (CISR) is profoundly impacting students and families by addressing barriers to education and fostering opportunities for success. With a mission to surround students with a community of support, CIS of Rowan County has become a vital resource for youth and their families, helping them overcome challenges and achieve brighter futures.A mission rooted in supportEstablished to ensure every student has the tools and resources they need to thrive, CIS focuses on creating equitable access to education.
The organization works directly with students, providing academic support, emotional guidance, and access to essential resources like clothing, hygiene products, and food. By integrating these supports into schools, CIS is helping young people stay in school, graduate, and build strong foundations for the future.Reaching students across nine sitesOperating in nine sites, CIS of Rowan County has a clear mission: to empower students to stay in school and achieve in life.
Over the past year, CIS programs have reached 3,923 students, delivering critical resources and tailored interventions. Here’s how CIS is making a difference:100 percent of seniors graduated, setting a strong foundation for their futures.99 percent of K-11 students were promoted to the next grade level.
87 percent of students met or made progress toward behavior goals.92 percent of students met or progressed toward coursework goals.Additionally, 320 students received targeted, intensive support, with every single one meeting or progressing toward their attendance goals.
Transformative programsCIS also supports families in crisis. For example, the organization recently secured housing for over 10 families through collaborative efforts, helping them transition from uncertainty to stability. These personalized interventions showcase the depth of CIS’s commitment to meeting the unique needs of every family they serve.
CIS Crisis Assistance has helped over 70 families in financial crisis with water, electricity and gas. Additionally, 10 families received eviction assistance, preventing displacement and offering them a chance to rebuild. Through partnerships, CIS has also implemented the Phoenix Program, which assists families who have been rehoused by furnishing their homes and creating welcoming living environments.
Engaging families and building partnershipsCIS doesn’t just work with students — it actively involves the entire community. Over 1,049 parents and families were engaged through CIS programs, reinforcing the importance of family support in student success. Furthermore, partnerships with board members, funders, community partners, and volunteers are vital to sustaining these impactful programs.
More than 80 volunteers, including mentors, tutors, lunch buddies and chaperones, dedicate their time to making meaningful connections with students throughout the school day and beyond. These volunteers are crucial in creating a supportive and nurturing environment that fosters student growth and success.Impact snapshot3,000+ period purses: Distributed to young women in Rowan County schools, removing barriers to education caused by lack of access to hygiene products.
Housing assistance: 15 Families have transitioned into safe, stable housing through CIS’s advocacy and support.Emergency assistance: $37,000 in funding secured for immediate needs, such as utility bills and rent assistance, helping families avoid displacement and hardship.Crisis assistance: Over 70 families were supported with utility payments and gas, and 10 were prevented from eviction.
Phoenix Program: Rehoused families received furniture and home essentials to ease their transition.Community collaboration: Active partnerships with over a dozen local organizations and businesses, strengthening the safety net for Rowan County residents.Looking aheadAs CIS of Rowan County continues its mission, the organization is focused on expanding its reach and deepening its impact.
Future goals include increasing workforce development opportunities, addressing food deserts, and providing more personalized support for students and families.“Our work is more than helping students graduate. It’s about creating a ripple effect that strengthens families, empowers communities, and builds a brighter future for everyone.
”How to get involvedThe success of Communities In Schools depends on the collective effort of volunteers, donors, and advocates. Whether through financial contributions or volunteer hours, the community’s support is critical in sustaining CIS programs and expanding their impact. To learn more about how to help, visit www.
cisrown.org.ConclusionCommunities In Schools of Rowan County is more than just an organization; it’s a lifeline for students and families facing challenges.
By addressing immediate needs and paving pathways to success, CIS proves that when communities come together, they can create lasting change — one student, one family, and one success story at a time.James Davis is the executive director of Communities in Schools of Rowan County. The post My Turn: Communities In Schools of Rowan County empowers students, strengthens communities appeared first on Salisbury Post.
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