Communities In Schools Hosts 2024 Student Supports Institute Feb. 21-23 in Las Vegas

CONTACT: Rasheda Williams, williamsr@cisnet.org, 571-556-6708

Chronic absenteeism and learning loss have been at the forefront of education discussions nationwide over the past few years, and school districts across the country are actively seeking solutions that facilitate student engagement and achievement.  

Communities In Schools® (CIS®) will explore the foundational supports needed to empower students to achieve in school and life beyond the classroom during its 2024 Student Supports Institute scheduled February 21-23, 2024, in Las Vegas. 

As a hybrid learning event, the 2024 Student Supports Institute will bring together nearly 400 education practitioners, experts, and stakeholders across CIS’ broad network to develop and execute real-life, actionable strategies that can reverse the trends of absenteeism, learning loss, and more.  

“Communities In Schools is committed to equipping our network of site coordinators, educators, and education advocates with the training and tools they need to address the multifaceted challenges faced by students today,” said Dr. Heather Clawson, CIS Chief Program and Innovation Officer. “By focusing on intentionally integrating and coordinating supports for students within our schools, we aim to create a more holistic approach to education that goes beyond the classroom, ensuring students have the resources and assistance they need to thrive academically and personally.” 

In addition to comprehensive training in the core concepts of integrated student supports, attendees will have access to diverse professional development opportunities and networking that fosters collaboration and best practice sharing. 

All participants will have access to more than 20 breakout sessions including mainstage conversations featuring CIS leaders and community partners including:  

• Rey Saldaña, CIS President and CEO 
• Dr. Heather Clawson, CIS Chief Program and Innovation Officer 
• Jessy Cuddy, CIS Senior Director of Learning and Practice 
• Bibb Hubbard, Founder of Learning Heroes 
• Hedy Chang, Founder and Executive Director of Attendance Works 
• Erica Limon-Trefielo, CIS of Washington Associate Director 
• Hilary Ozenbaugh, CIS of Cape Fear Program Manager 
• Lauren Lee, CIS of Cape Fear Student Support Specialist 
• Trisha Webb, CIS of Northeast Nevada Program Manager  
• Jes Averhart, CEO of Jes & Co and Creator of Reinvention Road Trip® 

For more information about CIS events supporting students, families, schools, and communities, visit communitiesinschools.org/events. 

About Communities In Schools
Communities In Schools® (CIS®) is a national organization that ensures every student, regardless of who they are, their ability, zip code or socioeconomic background, has what they need to realize their potential in school and beyond. Working directly inside more than 3,000 schools across the country, we connect students to caring adults and community resources that help them see, confront, and overcome the barriers that stand between them and a brighter future. Together, we build a powerful change movement made up of peers, students, and alumni committed to building an equitable path to education for future generations. Follow us for news @cisnational on X (formerly Twitter) or with the hashtag #AllinforKids.