The work of a site coordinator is diverse and ever-changing as it is reflective of the multifaceted needs and assets of the communities that site coordinators serve. Despite these differences, it is important to recognize why site coordinators are important allies for communities and schools nationwide. Currently, 1.2 million students drop out of school every year. What that means is every 26 seconds a student in the U.S. loses his or her path to a better future. The role of the site coordinator is to work hand in hand with schools, community partners, and families to surround students with a caring network of support to help them stay in school and to succeed in life.
Site coordinators are driven by the mission of Communities in Schools and work to meet five core needs for every student:
1. A personal one-on-one relationship with a caring adult
2. A safe place to learn and grow
3. A healthy start and a healthy future
4. A marketable skill to use upon graduation
5. A chance to give back to their peers and community
The site coordinator is responsible for coordinating services for students with the highest needs (academic, basic needs, mental health, social/emotional enrichment, college/career readiness), while simultaneously supporting the development of a healthy culture of support on a school-wide level. Utilizing a three tiered support model, site coordinators work to provide students with one-on-one case management, targeted small group discussions and activities, and whole school services that work to meet school-wide needs as identified by all collaborating partners.