Communities In Schools
Communities in Schools, or CIS, is the nation’s number one dropout prevention program. Established in 1985 by a group of concerned community leaders, CIS set out on a mission to provide a positive environment for students who are at risk of dropping out of school. CIS has six components that it strives to serve students and the community. They are Supportive Guidance Counseling, Academic Support, Enrichment Activities, Parental and Family Engagement, College and Career Awareness, Health and Human Services. The CIS organization works to ensure student access to educational opportunities, social services, and support services. CIS not only gives assistance with the most basic needs such as food, clothing, and shelter but also works to develop the student’s positive self-esteem, confidence, and a sense of respect.
Each semester CIS staff develop a campus plan to best fit the needs of all Excel’s students. Partnerships with various community agencies assist CIS in carrying out its mission. Some of those partners are:
- Starbucks
- Toyota
- Alamo Community Colleges
- Good Careers Academy
- Bexar County Family Justice Center
- Northside Safe and Drug-Free Schools
- San Antonio Apartment Association
- Junior Achievement
- Carelink
- San Antonio Food Bank
- Community First
- San Antonio Counseling and Behavioral Center
- Family Violence Prevention Services
It is through the work of CIS that we have food to give our students when needed, workshops, guest speakers, support groups, bus passes when needed for transportation to school, help with college applications, career guidance, and many other programs to include parents and family.
Chavez Excel Academy’s CIS site coordinator is Ms. Arleen Pedroza. She has an office on-site and is available to students throughout the day. She can be reached by calling the school campus telephone number.