Age range

Website: ciskids.org

Mission/Goals: Communities In Schools brings resources, services, business partners, parents and volunteers into public schools across the U.S. It meets children's needs so children can concentrate on learning. Communities in Schools focus on five basic life tools: a personal, one-on-one relationship with a caring adult; a safe place to learn and grow; a healthy start and a healthy future; a marketable skill to use upon graduation; and a chance to give back to peers and community. Communities In Schools does not create programs. CIS facilitates and maintains connections with agencies, businesses, and organizations on behalf of Columbus Public Schools.

Notes: CIS is in 50 of 144 schools.

Source(s): www.guidestar.org; ciskids.org

Type of Evaluation: Outcomes Monitoring.
 

Note: The research sample did not include any Ohio programs.

Objective: To assess the effect of Communities in Schools programs on youth outcomes.

Impact/Outcomes: The effects on enrollment and graduation rates were as follows: 77% of students enrolled in CIS were either still in school or graduated 2-3 years later; 21% dropped out of school. The evaluation found that improvements in school attendance and academic performance were greatest for CIS students who had moderate or severe attendance problems and/or academic problems prior to enrollment. Overall, 50% maintained or improved attendance while 49% were able to improve their GPA.