Stories - Communities In Schools

Neorah: Aspiring to Help Others Achieve Their Dreams

My journey with Communities In Schools has been nothing short of transformative, exceeding all initial expectations. At the heart of this experience is my site coordinator, Carlea Atkinson. Her office became a safe haven, a place where I could seek advice and guidance. Ms. Atkinson's commitment to my growth was evident in the numerous college and university visits she facilitated, exposing me to a world beyond my immediate surroundings.

Story | May 13, 2025

CIS Graduate Sierra with CIS Program Manager Hope

Sierra: Turning Her Senior Year Into a Success Story

Senior Sierra set out to make her last year her best – and she more than delivered. Referred to Communities In Schools of Tennessee by her principal (and herself), Sierra connected with Hope Childs, her program manager, to tackle two big goals: improving her attendance and getting career-ready.

Story | May 13, 2025

Girl speaking with a mental health specialist

Mental Health First Aid: A Necessary Skill for Any Adult Who Interacts with Young People

Mental Health First Aid empowers adults to recognize when someone is experiencing a mental health crisis — and it gives them the tools they need to support, triage, and connect that person to help if warranted.

Story | May 12, 2025

CIS student holding large check for college tuition

Amaya: Changing the World

This year, Terrell High School senior Amaya set a BIG goal—earning a scholarship to UT Tyler.

Story | April 23, 2025

CIS leaders standing on the steps in front of the capitol

Leading the Future of Education: CIS Brings Powerful Stories and Policy Solutions to Capitol Hill

Learn how CIS leaders came together in Washington, D.C., to advocate for the future of education.

Story | April 17, 2025

Student wearing glasses, headphones and a hoodie outside

Mariyah: Thriving in College and Beyond

Learn what Mariyah, Alumna from CIS of Charlotte-Mecklenburg, has been up to since graduation.

Story | April 10, 2025

Feeding Student Success: CIS and Whataburger’s Partnership to Be Present for Students

2025 began with a new opportunity to partner with a Whataburger franchisee and engage with the larger CIS network.

Story | March 26, 2025

Black History Month Spotlight: CIS Alumni Creating Legacies

Communities In Schools (CIS) alumni are making an impact in big ways—whether by mentoring the next generation of CIS students, excelling in their careers, or serving their communities. This Black History Month, we honor the achievements of CIS alumni who personify the organization’s mission while creating their own legacies.

Story | Feb. 25, 2025

A barber with glasses and headphones is smiling while cutting a student's hair in a school salon.

CIS Licensed Partners: Creating Magic at Mabelvale

Mabelvale Middle School is part of CIS’ Licensed Partner program with Little Rock Public School District (LRSD). The district joined the CIS Network as a Licensed Partner in 2023 and has since expanded into 10 schools in the district, serving nearly 5,000 students.

Story | Jan. 27, 2025

CIS Founder Bill Milliken poses with his wife Jean and CIS Alum Kai

Alumni Spotlight: Kai Green

I’m Kai Green. I joined the CIS of Memphis program as an alumna after being introduced to CIS in 2023 while working toward my degree in Business Administration from Lane College in Jackson, TN. I felt this program was perfect for me once I met the onsite coordinators. It was full of professionals who saw potential in me and wanted to support me in any way they could.

Story | Jan. 14, 2025

CIS Site Coordinator Marco and CIS Alum Esteban

Esteban: 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.

Story | Dec. 6, 2024

Licensed Partner Spotlight: National Indian Education Association

This month we proudly spotlight one of our Communities In Schools Licensed Partners, the National Indian Education Association (NIEA). Together, we are working to ensure that every student, regardless of background or circumstances, has access to the resources, opportunities, and relationships they need to thrive in school and life.

Story | Nov. 20, 2024