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Helping Washington students work toward a better future

Communities In Schools: the only dropout prevention program in the nation proven to increase graduation rates.

At Communities In Schools we take the time to get to know our students – to understand their needs better than any program. Only then can we connect them with exactly the right kind of help. Sometimes it’s after-school tutoring, or healthcare or counseling, eyeglasses or clothing. Some kids need family help to stabilize the home. Others just need a shoulder to lean on.

Every young person has the potential to succeed and to grow into a productive member of our society. For those who face circumstances that require a little extra – a lift up – we are there, in their school, responding quickly to get them what they need, when they need it.

Proven, Evidence-based Strategy

Eighty-three percent of secondary students we help remain in school and are promoted to the next grade. In fact, independent research confirms: of the many organizations working to help students achieve Communities In Schools is proven to be more effective, and results in higher graduation rates and higher proficiencies in math and reading.*

* “Communities In Schools National Evaluation School-Level Report. Vol. 2.” ICF International, Fairfax, Va. April 2008.

Freeing teachers to teach

A recent third-party survey confirms that teachers overwhelmingly attribute improved student attitudes, increased classroom engagement, improved attendance and behavior, and an overall greater commitment to learning as a result of Communities In Schools help.**

“Not every kid comes to school prepared to learn. When their issues play out in the classroom I have to take more class time to deal with them, which deprives other students of valuable teaching time. With Communities In Schools help these kids get the things they need so they come to class focused and ready to learn. Now more of my time goes into actual teaching.”

~ Kari Hollandsworth, Lindbergh High School, Renton,Washington

** “Communities In Schools Teacher Support Study.” ICF International, Fairfax, Va. August 2009.

Download the Evaluation Policy Brief and ICF Executive Summary.

Download the Teacher Survey Executive Summary

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One Child at a Time
When Marlene, a Communities In Schools volunteer, first met Gayle, she had one goal: help Gayle pass middle school. Gayle had failing grades, low self-esteem, and was challenged by physical handicaps and significant learning disabilities. Each week Marlene would meet Gayle at school for lunch. They went on nature walks, worked on sewing projects, and visited art museums. Soon Gayle’s grades began to climb. After four years together, Gayle has worked to overcome her challenges and is making A's and B's. She has gained self-confidence and public speaking skills and is preparing for college. "Marlene keeps telling other people how much I have achieved," says Gayle. "I’m not sure if she realizes that a lot of it is because of her."
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Gayle's Story