The nationwide organization
Communities in Schools (CIS) has been working to improve graduation rates in several Michigan cities for years through local affiliate programs. Those local affiliates, as well as other Michigan school districts that could benefit from a CIS program will soon gain the benefit of a CIS Michigan State Office near
Downtown Lansing.
“We’re really excited to be working in Michigan,” says Director of Field Operations for CIS, Louis Moser. “I think we’re going to have a lot of success, and a lot of supporters. We are hoping that the momentum will just keep it growing in Michigan.”
CIS is now in the process of hiring a state director and locating an office near Downtown Lansing. Moser expects at least one full- and one part-time employee will be added to the new staff. He hopes the office will be open by the end of April.
The new CIS Michigan office will be tasked with an array of duties, including supporting and training existing local affiliates, identifying communities with a need for a CIS program and acting as an advocate for schools at the Capitol.
“They’ll also be building statewide partnerships and resource development, finding other businesses and non-profits interested in increasing graduation rates,” says Moser.
Even before opening its doors, the CIS Michigan office is receiving community support. It has been awarded two donations from State Farm totaling $37,500.
CIS is an organization that surrounds students with a community of support with the goal of empowering them to stay in school. CIS works in nearly 3,000 schools in 25 states and the District of Columbia.