Communities in Schools (CIS)

CIS has served at-risk students in the Greater Houston Area since 1979. CIS is a campus-based, nonprofit organization providing direct services and resources to under-served children with unmet needs. By surrounding them with a community of support, CIS empowers students to stay in school and achieve in life.

Communities in Schools Program Model offers the following integrated student supports: [1] School-Wide Services; [2] Targeted Programs; and [3] Individualized Support (including Case Management and Walk-In Services).

To maximize resources and prevent duplication, CIS partners with over 300 agencies – bringing community expertise directly to the school campus. CIS believes that every child deserves and needs the Five Basics to succeed academically and beyond. The Five Basic principles of CIS are:

1. A one-on-one relationship with a caring adult

Children need positive role models to create expectations for success, offer encouragement and provide academic support. CIS provides children who are at-risk with a responsible adult to foster their positive growth and development.

2. A safe place to learn and grow

Through after-school and summer programs focused on academics and life skills, CIS is dedicated to ensuring that students have a safe and appropriate environment in which to learn and achieve their potential.

3. A healthy start and a healthy future

Many school-aged children lack basic medical services and nutritious food – essential for healthy development. CIS provides access to health and dental care, food programs and counseling services for thousands of students who might otherwise go without.

4. A marketable skill to use upon graduation

When students see that they have options in life, they get excited about their future. CIS works with students on career development and readiness, and helps create pathways to college.

5. A chance to give back to peers and community

CIS works with students to build their confidence, develop their talents and leadership skills, and strengthen their involvement in community service and service-learning activities.


CIS places a full-time social service provider on school campuses to deliver a variety of services and provide referrals to other agencies as needed to ensure that every student we touch receives these Five Basics.

Learn about Communities In Schools Houston.