CIS faces challenges hiring site coordinators affecting student support in Richmond schools

In a recent meeting of the Richmond Community Schools Board of Trustees, pressing concerns regarding the Communities in Schools (CIS) program took center stage. The atmosphere was charged with urgency as board members discussed the challenges faced by CIS, particularly in filling crucial site coordinator positions across several schools.

Communities in Schools aims to enhance student outcomes through targeted support, focusing on academic improvement, attendance, behavior, and overall school climate. However, the program has struggled significantly this year, with vacancies at Charles Elementary, Vail Elementary, Hibbard Grammar, and Dennis Middle School. Notably, Charles Elementary has not had a site coordinator for the entire school year, raising alarms about the support available to students in need.

The board highlighted the importance of these positions, as site coordinators play a vital role in connecting at-risk students with necessary resources. Currently, only 27 students are being case managed, a stark contrast to the 431 students identified as needing support based on their risk factors. This discrepancy underscores a critical gap in services, as many students who exhibit signs of potential dropout—such as poor attendance and academic struggles—are not receiving the help they require.

During discussions, it was revealed that a recent review of case-managed students indicated that many do not meet the criteria for at-risk status. This misalignment raises concerns about the effectiveness of the CIS program in addressing the needs of the most vulnerable students. The board expressed a commitment to ensuring that the right students receive the right support, emphasizing the need for a more targeted approach.

As the meeting concluded, the board recognized the urgency of addressing these staffing issues and the importance of CIS in fostering a supportive educational environment. With the enrollment of Richmond Community Schools at 4,431 students, the need for effective case management is more critical than ever. The board's ongoing efforts to collaborate with CIS aim to bridge the gap and ensure that every student has access to the resources they need to succeed.