Tyler County: January Spotlight

If you are looking for a small place with a big heart and an even bigger impact on students and families, Tyler County never falls short. The Communities In Schools Coordinators of Tyler County go far beyond meeting basic needs; they provide safe spaces, open hearts, and listening ears for students who need to know that someone truly cares. Their presence in the schools creates an environment where students feel supported, valued, and understood. Sometimes at moments when that support matters most. 

Across both elementary schools and the consolidated middle school, CIS coordinators work tirelessly to encourage positive attendance through creative and meaningful incentives. Students are recognized not only for consistent attendance, but also for making improvements and for simply needing that extra encouragement to show up and stay engaged. These efforts remind students that every day matters and that their presence at school is noticed and celebrated. Coordinators don’t limit their impact to programs alone; they step into classrooms and as sports coaches to offer guidance, motivation, and reassurance, helping students understand that showing up is a step toward a brighter future. 

During the holiday season, and long after the decorations are packed away, Site Coordinator LeaAnn Butcher goes above and beyond to ensure no family feels forgotten. She brings students and classrooms together in the spirit of giving by organizing efforts to fill bags for the school pantry and distribute them before Christmas. What makes this initiative especially meaningful is the way it is turned into a friendly classroom competition, allowing students to “win the brag” while helping others in need. Through this process, giving becomes joyful, engaging, and empowering. 

This event does more than help feed families at Sistersville Elementary; it teaches students the value of compassion, generosity, and community. It gives them the chance to feel pride in helping their peers and to understand the power of coming together for a common cause. Through these acts of kindness, Communities In Schools of Tyler County continues to shape not only successful students, but caring, empathetic individuals who know the importance of lifting one another up.