As parents and caregivers know, the COVID-19 pandemic has impacted learning for all students. It is estimated that 36,000 Georgia students were not enrolled in school last year (georgiapolicy.org/2021/02/where-have-all-the-children-gone-truancy). To meet the critical needs of students and reengage those who have disconnected with learning, Communities In Schools (CIS) of Georgia will staff three Reengagement Coordinators to implement social services and case management for those facing obstacles preventing them from engaging in virtual or in-person learning.
These three new positions serve Stockbridge High School in Henry County, Pebblebrook High School in Cobb County, and Callaway High School in Troup County – all identified as “high-need” schools (more than state average of the student population are from low-income families). Reengagement Coordinators participate in trainings, including (but not limited to): Mental Health First Aid, Home Visit Training, Motivational Interviewing, Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs), Developmental Relationships, and Trauma-Informed Care.
CIS of Georgia supports students and their families by addressing barriers to a quality education in this stressful, uncertain climate. Reengagement efforts include collaborating with school and district faculty to identify students who are not engaged in school. Then, outreach efforts begin to identify obstacles preventing students from attending school and/or completing assignments. This includes home visits, phone calls, and other means of communication to connect with students and families.
Other obstacles impacting academic, behavior, attendance, and social service needs will also be identified to assist with gaps in service provision. Additionally, CIS Reengagement Coordinators will deploy access to basic needs resources and urgent mental health and well-being needs. Individualized action plans for each student and family ensure they overcome school engagement challenges and persist in their academic pathway. They will also empathize, building strong, trusting relationships.
Communities In Schools of Georgia ensures reengagement for students now and beyond the pandemic – partnering with local educators, families, and communities to implement an evidence-based model of holistic student supports designed for student success.
Annually, CIS of Georgia serves more than 88,000 students and families. To learn more and support the reengagement effort of Communities In Schools of Georgia please visit cisga.org.
