Ritchie County October Spotlight

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 stand, and a variety of wonderful treats provided by our generous community agencies and businesses. The event had a fantastic turnout, and it continues to be a tradition that students and families look forward to every year as they kick off a new school year together. Ritchie County High School  When a tall, quiet student transferred into a West Virginia high school, it didn’t take long for him to be noticed. Affectionately nicknamed the “gentle giant” by his peers, he quickly became part of the school community. But behind his calm and kind demeanor, he and his father were facing challenges few could imagine. Over the years, this student experienced significant instability at home. After a series of hardships—including the illness of a family member, multiple moves out of state, and ongoing financial struggles—he and his father eventually returned to West Virginia determined that he would finish his senior year and graduate with his classmates. The challenge: they had no place to live. For a time, the family slept in their vehicle in a local parking lot, cooking simple meals on a hot plate and trying to get by day to day. Recognizing the seriousness of the situation, the Communities In Schools site coordinator immediately began reaching out to community partners and resources. Within a week, sustainable housing was secured. Along with access to basic needs such as food, laundry, and showers, the student and his father finally had a safe place to call home. The gratitude expressed by both father and son was overwhelming. Through tears, the father shared, “Because of you, we have a home.” These words stand as a powerful reminder of the impact that wraparound support and strong community partnerships can have on the lives of students and their families. Today, this student is beginning his senior year with renewed hope and stability. He is focused on graduating with his classmates and is actively exploring college opportunities. His journey is a testament to the resilience of students and the power of caring adults who walk beside them.