The above are just a few of more than 100 pledges New Hanover High students wrote during a recent CIS “Being Present Matters” event. They’re more than words; They’re the dreams and desires of students who want to show up and build a better future.
But showing up isn’t easy when students struggle academically or face challenges like hunger, housing insecurity, or the need to work and care for siblings. In our region, 1 in 3 high school students is chronically absent, a crisis that perpetuates poverty and costs our community millions in lost potential.
That’s why CIS Cape Fear places trained Student Support Specialists in 34 local schools to remove barriers, meet basic needs, and keep students engaged and on track to graduate. Ammeriah, a local CIS graduate, put it best.
“My CIS staff did everything from making sure I had Christmas gifts, a graduation cap and gown, and stayed on top of me to make sure I am doing the right thing,” said Ammeriah. “I’ll always remember the talks to make sure I am doing okay. I’m most proud of graduating high school because I didn’t think I would.”
Last year CIS Cape Fear reached more than 32,000 students and provided one-on-one support for 3,000; Of those, 99% stayed in school, 94% graduated, 86% improved attendance and 85% improved academically.
Thousands of young lives depend on us, and we depend on you. Your gift makes our work possible. Please help us continue this life changing work in the face of uncertain funding. Together, we can ensure every student has the opportunity to be present and be successful in life. From all of us at Communities In Schools of Cape Fear, thank you for your generosity and warmest wishes for a joyful holiday season.
