Student Success, One Child at a Time
Ensuring student success is everyone's job: schools, parents, communities.
Communities In Schools is the nation's largest dropout organization. In over 200 communities across 27 states, we work closely with schools, social services, businesses and volunteers to get young people the services they need to learn and grow: after-school help and family services to stabilize the home. Without these basic supports, kids in need or at-risk are far less likely to succeed and grow into productive adults.
Getting kids what they need - when they need it.
Communities In Schools of Spokane County currently has site coordinators in 6 schools. Shaw Glover, Chase, and Cheney Middle Schools, Sheridan Elementary and Lewis and Clark High School. Since our inception in September of 2008 we have served over 2000 children by brokering in a variety of different services!
Proven, Evidence-based Strategy
Recent third-party findings confirm: Of the many organizations working to improve student outcomes, Communities In Schools, through coordination of services, is proven to be more effective, and results in higher graduation rates, and higher percentages of students reaching proficiency in math and reading.*
Download the policy brief and ICF Executive Summary.
* ICF International, April 2008. Communities In Schools National Evaluation School-Level Report. Vol. 2. Fairfax, VA: IFC International.
Strong Families Succeed:
Using the research-based Strengthening Families Program, parents and caregivers in Spokane and Cheney benefit from the only class that includes adolescents and their parents. Pre-teens learn to improve their friend choices, understand parent stressors, and practice resisting risky behavior. Parents and caregivers review the value of using both love and limits as small children turn into young adults. They also share their expectations for healthy lifestyles for their children. Hands-on "family time" includes making a family tree labeling individual family member strengths and creating a family shield highlighting family values that protect during tough times. All this plus 7 weeks of wholesome, tasty dinners and free childcare. The best parenting value in town! Coming soon - more classes to help parents advocate for their children in Finding Your B+Voice workshops.
