Marion County: December Spotlight

Marion County continues to experience the positive impact of Communities In Schools, strengthening its commitment to student success each year. CIS first launched in the 2023–24 school year at West Fairmont Middle School, Fairmont Senior High School, and Watson Elementary. Building on that strong foundation, the program expanded in 2024–25 to North Marion High School, Mannington Middle School, and Blackshere Elementary. This year, the momentum grows once again with the addition of East Dale Elementary, East Fairmont High School, and East Fairmont Middle School—bringing meaningful support, resources, and connections to even more students. 

Gina DeLorenzo, C&I Coordinator and the CIS County Contact, shared: “The continued expansion of Communities In Schools (CIS) in Marion County has significantly strengthened our focus on promoting positive attendance. CIS began its work in the Fairmont Senior attendance area and demonstrated early success in building meaningful relationships with students and families. Last year, the district advanced this progress by securing the Scaling for Success Grant to extend CIS services into the North Marion attendance area. This year, we have continued that momentum by expanding into the East Side attendance area. 

With CIS now supporting 9 of the county’s 21 schools, the program’s growing presence has enabled the school system to place an immediate and consistent emphasis on attendance. The expansion has not only increased access to supports but has also deepened rapport with families, reinforcing the message that Attendance Matters. This intentional outreach and engagement are helping to create a culture of regular school attendance across the county, ultimately laying the foundation for improved student success.”