Celebrate Public Schools
PURPOSE
Communities In Schools of Central Texas (CIS) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to reducing dropout rates and helping students thrive by surrounding them with a community of support. Working directly inside public schools, CIS connects students to tailored resources that address academic, social, emotional, and basic needs so they can stay engaged and on track to graduate. Its school‑based Program Managers bring community partners and services onto campuses to help remove barriers to learning and life success. The organization serves campuses across multiple Central Texas districts, focusing on equity, opportunity, and whole‑child support.
OUTREACH
CIS does not have a traditional “member” body; rather, its community includes the students and families it serves, plus the staff, volunteers, AmeriCorps members, mentors, and community partners who make its model work. Its team of Program Managers, AmeriCorps members, and volunteer mentors work inside schools to build relationships with students and coordinate supports. Volunteers from local businesses, nonprofits, and caring individuals help through mentoring, tutoring, family support drives, and enrichment activities. CIS’s broad network includes school districts (such as Austin ISD, Del Valle ISD, Hays CISD, and others), local donors, and service partners helping remove barriers to success for students.
Wrapping students in the support they need to stay in school and succeed.
Integrated Student Supports
CIS places dedicated staff on campuses to identify each student’s needs—academic, social, emotional, or basic—and connect them with support. This approach ensures students have access to caring adults, safe environments, and resources like food, counseling, tutoring, and family assistance so learning isn’t interrupted by out‑of‑school barriers. It’s a holistic method proven to help students stay engaged and progress toward graduation.
Community Partnership & Volunteer Engagement
The organization actively cultivates partnerships with businesses, nonprofits, and community volunteers to extend its support network. Local partners host in‑kind drives, mentorship programs, college and career tours, and hands‑on engagement activities that enrich students’ school experiences. This collaborative model strengthens community ties and brings real world resources directly into schools.
Family & Life‑Skills Support
CIS helps families access essential services and education that stabilize home environments and support student success. Through programs like ASPIRE Family Literacy, care coordination, and wraparound services, the organization supports not just students but whole families in overcoming obstacles so children can focus on learning and growth. This priority reflects CIS’s belief that long‑term success comes when both school and home are supported.