Communities in Schools

 

 

Our History

CIS Founder Bill Milliken recognized that strong, caring relationships between students, parents, educators, community-based organizations, and school and district leaders can create better education outcomes. His vision was to bring a community of support inside our schools to remove barriers that get in the way of student learning. 

From this clear vision, CIS was created in 1977 to empower students with communities of care and support so they can achieve their dreams. Today, Bill Milliken’s vision has been brought to life through CIS’ powerful network of organizations working in 3,571 schools to serve over 2 million students across the nation every year. 

For almost 50 years, Communities In Schools has demonstrated measurable success for students around the country. During the 2022-2023 school year, 99 percent of students enrolled in CIS programs remained in school through the end of the school year. See how the CIS model helps students reach their potential.

At Communities In Schools, we believe that every student, regardless of their background or circumstances, should have what they need to realize their full potential in school and beyond. Through relationships with caring adults who work in schools and across communities, we connect students to school and community resources, so they show up to school prepared and ready to learn.  Being Present Matters, We show up for students by connecting them to the critical support and resources that they need in order to be successful in the classroom and beyond. Caring adults can make a huge difference in a student’s life. That’s why CIS site coordinators are the ultimate caring connectors, bringing support directly inside the school building to help students succeed.