Communities In Schools of Lakewood

Communities in Schools (CIS) Lakewood is an affiliate of the national Communities in Schools organization. Each affiliate is an independent nonprofit, but we hold affiliate status by bringing the CIS model to our communities. Our mission is to “surround students with a community of support, empowering them to stay in school and achieve in life.”

We provide support for children and youth in four schools in the Clover Park School District: Four Heroes and Tillicum Elementary Schools, Lochburn Middle School and Clover Park High School. Our primary work --- which we call “case management” --- is to assure as much as is possible that students referred to us by teachers and counselors have the support they need to succeed in school.

At CIS we work hand-in-hand with schools, communities and families to surround our students with a caring network of support. What sets CIS apart is the way we place site coordinators and program assistants inside schools to link community resources with the schools. Equal parts compassion and expertise, CIS staff collaborate with schools and community partners to help students develop the confidence and skills they need to achieve their potential.

Multiple studies show that students cannot learn at their potential when they are in crisis or facing significant social/emotional barriers. In partnerships with schools, CIS staff connect students with community resources that break down these barriers and instill hope. The students we work with need guidance, coaching, and support---someone to tell them, “I know you can do it!”