November County Spotlights

For the 2025–2026 school year, Raleigh County Communities In Schools (CIS) is prioritizing two key areas of impact: improving student attendance and strengthening family engagement.  CIS recognizes that consistent school attendance is one of the strongest predictors of academic success and long-term student outcomes. To address barriers that keep students from attending regularly, CIS site coordinators will continue working closely with school staff, families, and community p

Putnam County, West Virginia, is a dynamic community recognized for its spirit of collaboration and pride in education. Serving more than 9,000 students, Putnam County Schools is consistently ranked among the top districts in the state, earning recognition as West Virginia’s #1 academic district. Communities In Schools (CIS) partners with the district to build on this tradition of success by addressing barriers to learning, supporting student well-being, and ensuring every ch

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