Our work is best shared through the stories and images of our students, and testimonials from others touched by the work we do. We invite you to click on a story below… and be inspired.
Success Stories to Read
The Shuksan Body Justice Project
Summer Bookmobile 2021
Along with our many partners, this year we were able to coordinate a mobile summer learning-loss prevention program which brought thousands of FREE books to children and youth all over […]

Setting up students for success: the difference a desk makes
Deanna works at Vista Middle School in Ferndale, where she is a member of the Student Support Team. As a Communities In Schools Site Coordinator, she meets with a caseload […]

Supporting High School students: an interview with Lupita
Lupita works at Mount Vernon High School, alongside the Student Support Team. She serves students who are struggling with academics, attendance or behavior by providing them with supportive mentoring and […]

Johnny’s story of success started with celebration
Esme helps support students at an elementary school in Mount Vernon. There, she is part of a multidisciplinary team of educators who are dedicated to helping struggling students succeed. Early […]

Our story: CIS of Whatcom-Skagit
Our film debut! Want to learn more about what we do in our communities? Listen to our partners and peers share the story of our work in this sneak peek […]
Breaking Down Barriers
While spending time in classrooms this past month, I met and started forming a relationship with a third-grader, Sara. Â She is sweet and friendly, and I noticed she is still […]

Robotics Club Kids 2013-14
Teamwork and facing challenges are lessons being learned in CIS robotics.

Graduation Coaching
Katie went from failing all but one class with a 0.8 GPA in the first quarter to passing all of her classes and raising her GPA to 1.9 at the semester. With regular check-ins with the CIS AmeriCorps members, Katie finished the year strong with a 2.5 GPA in the second semester.

Trip to the Lighthouse Mission
I have witnessed the students’ love those that are strangers to them and that are often seen as outcasts by our community due to their homelessness. I am proud of the way they are representing Shuksan Middle School and as individuals who care and want to help with serious social issues.