Story Share
Are you a student, teacher, parent, mentor or tutor with a story to share? Maybe a teacher who's seen profound change in a young person? Or are you that young person? Take a few moments to share your story and pass along the inspiration that gets others involved! Please submit your story using the form at the bottom of this page.
Here are some stories that have been shared by others...
Shoes for Michael
Life hasn’t been easy for Michael, a student at a local Spokane middle school. After a recent snowfall, the Communities in Schools site coordinator discovered that Michael was in need of some extra help. As much as Michael enjoyed the snow like any other teen, it also made things difficult for him because his shoes and socks would get wet walking to the bus stop. Michael’s lone pair of shoes were falling apart and his family didn’t have enough money to purchase a new pair. For Michael, the worst part about his wet socks and shoes was going to PE because it was uncomfortable participating in gym activities. Using funding provided by local Spokane community partners, Communities in Schools was able to purchase Michael a new pair of snow boots to walk to and from school in, helping make the winter months more enjoyable. At Communities in Schools, we’ll do whatever it Takes to help a child succeed.
Islander Vikings by Rebecca
Shaw MS students approached me because they were interested in beginning a club focusing on their Polynesian culture. The club, "Islander Vikings" has held about 10 meetings with over 20 students in attendance. They planned a successful Valentine's celebration, hold study sessions, and have begun setting goals. One of their goals is to lower tardies amongst club members. For the week prior to the goal, there were 18 tardies to school recorded. During the week measured, there were only 2 tardies to school by members. The Islander Vikings members also hope to plan an event to educate other Shaw students on their culture through food and dance. Club members are primarily from the Marshall Islands, but Tonga and Chuuk Islands are also represented.
Shoe Story by Kadie
At the beginning of the year there was a young girl at the office who was really upset. She was refusing to go to class. I talked with her for a couple minutes and found out that the shoes she had were falling off. She was upset because she had health and fitness that day and she couldn't run in the shoes she had. I took her off to my "shoe store", which was a table with new donated shoes, she picked some out that fit and proudly walked to class and showed her teacher with all the confidence in the world and a giant smile across her face.
Strengthening Families Program by Lexie
I worked as one of the child care facilitators for the Strengthening Families Program in the fall and spring. I worked with my sister Tressae' and we provided child care for the parents who were going through the program. Strengthening Families is a nationally recognized parenting and family strengthening program for high-risk families. It basically helps build a stronger relationship between parents and youth. It is a really great program to be in. All the facilitators are nice and easy to get along with. I worked with Sherry Barrett (Communities In Schools). We provided dinner for the families and what was left over of the food we packed up and sent home with the families. As a Child Care facilitator I worked with children making art projects putting together puzzles. making things with Popsicle sticks and various other activities that were fun for the children. I also had fun. I built a strong relationship with the kids. At the end of the program a lot of the kids came up to me with tears in their eyes telling me how much fun they had and they were going to miss me and my sister. And that they wanted to come back for the following program in the spring. It was just a really great experience. I enjoyed working with all of the people.
"Being a Mentor" by Susan
Two years ago a friend told me about Communities In Schools and how she
became a mentor. She made the experience sound so wonderful that I
signed up to be a mentor the following year. Nothing could have
prepared me for this experience – it is life-changing. My mentee is one
of the most amazing people I have ever met. She is determined, hopeful
and unstoppable. For one hour a week, we meet and talk, do activities
and inspire each other. I am so proud of her, and what she has and will
accomplish. I highly recommend becoming a mentor, make a difference in
a child’s life and have a child make an impact in your life – you won’t
regret it.
