County Spotlights

Pocahontas County Communities In Schools Coordinators—Lois Wilfong, Jillian Lacasse, and Marsha Grimes—were thrilled to organize a county-wide visit from the WVU Mountaineer Cade Kincaid, bringing excitement and inspiration to all five Pocahontas County Schools. Cade spent the day traveling across the county, meeting students from every grade level—from curious preschoolers to graduating seniors—sharing a powerful message about the importance of showing up, staying engaged, a

Mineral County site coordinators are making attendance a priority—and they’re doing it with creativity, collaboration, and a whole lot of heart. Across the district, staff and students are embracing the message that being present matters.    At Keyser Middle School (KMS), the “Pledge to be Present” video has been a powerful tool in reinforcing the importance of attendance. What makes it especially impactful is that it features both students and staff, sending a clear message:

In the heart of Gilmer County, Communities In Schools (CIS) continues to prove why it’s a cornerstone of student support and family engagement. This month’s spotlight shines brightly on their recent Boo Bash, a spooktacular fall festival co-hosted with the PTA that brought the entire community together for an evening of free, family-friendly fun.  The Boo Bash transformed Gilmer Elementary School into a Halloween wonderland. They generously provided free popcorn and cotton ca

The incredible women of  Brooke County Communities In Schools go above and beyond every single day to make sure students feel supported, valued, and cared for. Through unwavering dedication, teamwork, and creativity, they not only meet students’ needs — they bring joy and compassion to everything they do.  Each site coordinator leads with heart — showing empathy, energy, and genuine love for their students. They create safe, welcoming spaces where kids know they have someone

Braxton County Communities In Schools (CIS) has played a key role in strengthening the sense of community across the county. Since its implementation in all Braxton County schools in January 2020, CIS has continued to foster meaningful partnerships through shared success, open communication, and ongoing collaboration.  In October, Braxton County CIS Site Coordinators presented an overview of their program to the Braxton County Rotary Club. They highlighted the organization’s

Nicholas County Communities In Schools is proud to serve students at Panther Creek Elementary, Richwood Middle School, and Richwood High School. At each of these schools, our site coordinators work diligently to ensure that every student’s needs are met — whether academic, emotional, hygienic, or attendance-related. Our mission is to remove barriers to learning so that students can thrive. Thanks to the generosity of our community partners and donors, we’ve been able to provi

The Wirt County school community came together in a heartwarming display of generosity during the 3rd Annual Communities In Schools (CIS) Food Drive, held at the Wirt County High School (WCHS) Homecoming Football Game on Friday, October 10, 2025. Under the bright lights of Wilson-Eismon Field, families, students, and supporters rallied to combat food insecurity, collecting essential non-perishable items to support local families and students in need. Site coordinators Taylor

Communities In Schools of Ritchie County hosted the 4th Annual Ritchie County Schools Back to School Bash on Friday, August 22nd at Ritchie County High School. Students and families from across the county were first welcomed at the Ritchie County Schools Meet the Team event before heading into an evening full of fun and back-to-school excitement. Families enjoyed free school supplies and backpacks, bounce houses, face painting, cartoon drawing, free ice cream, a concession st

School Spotlight! Thanks to the Community In Schools Program, Leon Elementary was able to open the Lions General Store.  Leon is located in a rural area, and the closet clothing store is a 30-minute drive away.  Many of the students' families have one vehicle and rely on public assistance programs.  The store is used for accidents, students in need, and as an award system.  The pantry is stocked with clothes, shoes, hygiene supplies, school supplies, make up, backpacks, and m

Over the past three years, Jefferson County has shown incredible growth and commitment to serving its students through Communities in Schools. What began with just three schools and three site coordinators has now grown into nine schools with a dedicated team of eleven site coordinators. This steady growth has been made possible through the expansion grant, which Jefferson County has strategically used each year to broaden its reach and meet the needs of more students and fam

At Doddridge County Schools, everything we do is guided by our mission, United to Make a Difference. This isn’t just a phrase; it’s a daily commitment to the students, families, and community. Doddridge County believes that when they work together, they create opportunities that change lives. Our 2025–2026 theme, Mission in Motion, takes that mission a step further. It reflects the idea that the purpose is not static, it moves with them, shows up in the classrooms, the athlet

Through consistent support, creativity, and collaboration, Communities In Schools has positively influenced our students, enriched our school culture, and deepened our partnership with the community. Our CIS Site Coordinators are innovative problem-solvers who bring energy and empathy to everything they do. They combine creativity with , all while demonstrating compassion in their daily work. Here are some highlights on initiatives they are working on this school year: Commun