Communities in Schools of NOVA (CIS NOVA)

We believe that when the needs of children are met, they can be free to learn and teachers can be free to teach. We believe ALL kids can succeed.  We NEVER give up on kids, and we do not allow them to give up on themselves.

The story of Communities In Schools began in the 1970s, when Founder Bill Milliken, then a youth advocate in New York City, came up with the idea of bringing community resources inside public schools – where they are accessible, coordinated and accountable. “It’s relationships, not programs, that change children,” Bill once said. “A great program simply creates the environment for healthy relationships to form between adults and children. Young people thrive when adults care about them on a one-to-one level, and when they also have a sense of belonging to a caring community.”

And that’s exactly what Communities In Schools does. Today, CIS of NOVA is part of the nation’s largest and most effective organization dedicated to keeping kids in school and helping them succeed in life. Our unique model positions site coordinators inside schools to assess students’ needs and provide resources to help them succeed in the classroom and in life. Whether it’s food, school supplies, health care, counseling, academic assistance or a positive role model, Communities In Schools is there to help.

Please welcome CIS to Alexandria and help us grow!  Donate today!

Being Present Matters for Alexandria Students

At Communities In Schools of Northern Virginia (CIS NOVA), being present matters. It means showing up with intentionality, actively listening, and taking action to remove barriers so students can succeed. It means staying persistent—adapting to challenges and never giving up on a student, no matter what.

In Alexandria’s West End, where the need is greatest, CIS NOVA currently serves six schools—William Ramsay ES, John Adams ES, Samuel W. Tucker ES, Francis C. Hammond MS, Alexandria City HS, and the Minnie Howard Campus of ACHS. Last year, we supported nearly 7,000 students, with 100% of our case-managed seniors graduating.

We show up for students every day with comprehensive student supports including tutoring, mentoring, college and career readiness programs, non-academic support, family engagement initiatives, and access to essential resources—ensuring they have what they need to thrive in school and beyond.

This Spring2ACTion, will you be present for Alexandria students? Your gift today helps us sustain our work in Alexandria and provide the resources and relationships that fuel student success.