Cynthia Sorsaia serves as the Communities in Schools Coordinator at the West Virginia Department of Education (WVDE). She brings 28 years of experience from the education field with a strong focus on Early Childhood, Elementary, and Literacy. Cynthia is a National Board-Certified Teacher in Literacy: Reading-Language Arts-Early and Middle Childhood. She ensures the Communities in Schools model is implemented with fidelity and connects the model to other WVDE initiatives. Cynthia's current position has allowed her to share her experience and expertise in removing barriers for students across West Virginia.

Ginny Ratliff serves as a Regional Specialist with Communities In Schools, serving in this role since 2021. She holds a Master of Public Administration and a Master of Social Work from West Virginia University. Ginny is passionate about supporting students and breaking down the barriers that stand in the way of their success. Her work is driven by the belief that every child deserves the opportunity to thrive.Outside of her professional life, Ginny enjoys spending quality time with her husband, Tyler, and their two daughters, Caroline and Charlotte. Their home is made even livelier with the company of their beloved dogs, Mavrik and Mae.

Carla Snell serves as a Regional Specialist with Communities In Schools (CIS). Carla has 12 years of experience as a special education teacher and 2 years of experience as a CIS Site Coordinator at Huntington High School. She holds a bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education and Special Education as well as a master’s degree in special education from Marshall University. Carla’s heart is in education, and she enjoys traveling to different counties and getting to experience CIS across the state of West Virginia. She resides in Huntington with her husband, their two children, and two dogs.

Emma Damron serves as a Regional Specialist with Communities In Schools (CIS), joining the organization in 2025. As a third-generation educator, Emma was immersed in the school environment from a young age, with her mother serving as a principal. She holds a bachelor’s degree in social work and brings a diverse background in human resources, finance management, and early childhood development. Emma is passionate about supporting students and families, drawing on her unique blend of skills to foster meaningful connections and drive student success. Outside of work Emma enjoys spending time with her husband Jordan and their Golden Retriever as well as being an Auntie!

Ashlie Ellis is a Regional Specialist for Communities In Schools of West Virginia, bringing over 15 years of dedicated service to students and families across the state. She holds a bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education and a master’s degree along with a postgraduate certificate in Educational Leadership. A National Board-Certified Teacher and certified Reading Specialist, Ashlie is passionate about supporting academic success and well-being for all students. She enjoys camping around the country with her husband Jeremy, their two children, and their dog. Her work is guided by the belief that, “People don’t care how much you know, until they know how much you care.” – Theodore Roosevelt

D. Jonathan Paul serves as a Regional Specialist with Communities In Schools (CIS). Jonathan has 21 years of experience in Special Education serving most recently as a CIS Site Coordinator at Green Bank Elementary/Middle School. He holds a bachelor’s degree and works with children in the school system, as a children’s pastor, and at a youth camp. Jonathan resides in Pocahontas County with his wife of 26 years. They have two older children and are fostering two children along with their Miniature Yorkie Reese.

Brittney Hopkinson began her journey with Communities In Schools as a Site Coordinator in Berkeley County, West Virginia in 2019. In 2023, she transitioned into her current role as a Regional Specialist to support and strengthen student success initiatives across several counties. Brittney holds a master’s degree in social work from West Virginia University and has over 11 years of experience working with youth and families. She is deeply passionate about empowering young people and creating supportive environments that foster growth and resilience. Outside of work, Brittney is a proud dog mom to three lovable pups.

Trista Parsons began working with Communities in Schools as a site coordinator in Marshall County in 2021. In 2025 she transitioned to her current role as a regional specialist where she continues to support students and coordinator success and growth. Trista holds a bachelor’s degree in psychology and one in human services, along with a degree in hospitality management and tourism. She has over 15 years of experience, helping youth and families in The Ohio Valley and West Virginia. Trista’s heart is providing a service to her community. She resides in Wheeling with her husband Rocky, two dogs, and two cats.