A Historic GatheringÌý

The energy in the room was noticeable as attendees, many of whom were meeting face-to-face for the first time, built meaningful connections within and across affiliates. With representation from Benton-Franklin, Spokane, Blue Mountain, South King County, Whatcom-Skagit, and beyond, the event celebrated the diversity and shared mission of the ºÚÁϲ»´òìÈ network. The feedback was overwhelmingly positive, with participants praising the sense of community fostered through connection activities and collaborative learning opportunities.Ìý

Insights and Lessons LearnedÌý

The conference featured dynamic mainstage sessions, breakout workshops, and peer-to-peer discussions that were tailored to various levels of experience.  

Highlights included:Ìý

Mainstage Focus: A powerful presentation, thoughtfully led by Maria Garcia and Josh Lott, delved into vicarious trauma and self-care, highlighting the importance of mental health through their lived experiences. In addition, a separate site coordinator panel at the conference was tailored to the needs of ºÚÁϲ»´òìÈ staff by a dedicated committee of ºÚÁϲ»´òìÈ team members, ensuring the topics resonated deeply with attendees.Ìý

Breakout Sessions: Attendees explored critical topics such as:Ìý

• Behavior Management: Practical Tier II*** strategies to support students.Ìý
• Family Engagement: Innovative approaches to involving families in school communities.Ìý
• Data Rhythms: Techniques to streamline data usage for impactful storytelling and decision-making.Ìý
• Community Partnerships: Building relationships to strengthen student support systems.Ìý
• Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging (DEIB): Creating inclusive environments that foster belonging.Ìý

Survey results revealed that 81% of attendees were school-based staff, with 52% attending their first ºÚÁϲ»´òìÈ event. Most participants agreed that the sessions were applicable to their work and provided actionable insights to take back to their schools. 

“The Better Together Conference provided our network with the space to connect with peers, share best practices, and reflect on the challenges faced every day,” said Grace Fritzke, Program Support Specialist. “The breakout sessions on data management best practices, DEIB for Site Coordinators, and restorative justice, in particular, provided actionable strategies that our staff can take back to their communities.”Ìý

Key Themes and ChallengesÌý

Throughout the event, the challenges facing Washington’s students and families took center stage. Notable findings from the 2023-2024 school year, shared during the conference, included:Ìý

Mental Health Interventions:Ìý

• 170 mental health referralsÌý
• 40 suicide interventions and supportsÌý
• 612 counseling and grief supportsÌý
• 51 child abuse/neglect supportsÌý
• 716 other mental health-related supportsÌý

Priorities for Site Coordinators:Ìý

• Addressing basic needs, particularly housing.Ìý
• Supporting mental and behavioral health as top-identified needs.Ìý
• Enhancing family engagement and improving school climates.

Attendees expressed a desire for future conferences to include more connection activities, live audience participation, and tiered breakout sessions to cater to both new and experienced staff.Ìý

“Housing insecurity, mental health, and family engagement are all interconnected issues that we see impacting students every day,” said Erica Limón-Trefielo, Interim State Director. “The discussions at the conference underscored the urgency of these challenges and helped us inform a new legislative strategy.” 

Looking AheadÌý

The 2024 Better Together Conference reaffirmed the ºÚÁϲ»´òìÈ network’s commitment to learning and growing together. As we look to 2025, the momentum will continue with plans to host another conference in the fall. Future topics, as suggested by participants, may include restorative justice, trauma-informed care, resource navigation, and strategies to support undocumented families. 

This year’s event showcased what is possible when we come together to share expertise, amplify impact, and build a stronger future for Washington’s students. With such an inspiring beginning, the ºÚÁϲ»´òìÈ network is poised to reach even greater heights in the years ahead. 

“This conference was just the beginning,” said Nikki Ziegler, Program & Impact Director. “The excitement and connection in the room was undeniable, and I can’t wait to see how we continue to build on this momentum next year. Topics like restorative justice and trauma-informed care will be critical as we push forward in our mission to support students across Washington.”Ìý

AcknowledgmentsÌý

The success of the 2024 Better Together Conference would not have been possible without the support of our donors, corporate partners, and the unwavering dedication of our ºÚÁϲ»´òìÈ staff across the network. Thank you for making this transformative gathering a reality.Ìý

ReferencesÌý

*A Site Coordinator is the heart of ºÚÁϲ»´òìÈWA’s mission to surround students with a community of support. They work directly within schools to connect students and families to resources that address barriers to academic and personal success. 

Key responsibilities include: 

• Building trusting relationships with students, families, and school staff.Ìý
• Conducting needs assessments to identify challenges students face.Ìý
• Coordinating and delivering services such as academic assistance, mental health support, basic needs (e.g., food and clothing), and family engagement.Ìý
• Developing and implementing individualized student support plans.Ìý
• Monitoring and evaluating student progress toward goals.Ìý

Site Coordinators act as a bridge between the school and community resources, ensuring that every student has access to the tools and support they need to stay in school and achieve in life. 

**A Program Manager oversees the implementation and quality of ºÚÁϲ»´òìÈWA programs across multiple school sites or districts. They ensure that Site Coordinators and other team members have the guidance, tools, and resources to maximize their impact. 

Key responsibilities include: 

• Supervising and mentoring Site Coordinators.Ìý
• Developing strategies and frameworks to meet program goals.Ìý
• Managing program budgets and ensuring compliance with funding requirements.Ìý
• Collaborating with school leadership and community partners to align programs with school and district priorities.Ìý
• Collecting and analyzing data to evaluate program outcomes and identify areas for improvement.Ìý
• Supporting professional development and training for staff.Ìý

Program Managers focus on scaling and sustaining the ºÚÁϲ»´òìÈWA model, ensuring consistency and effectiveness across all sites they oversee. 

***Tier Support Model 

Tier I supports are designed for schoolwide impact—not just impact on our case-managed students. They’re designed to affect the school climate and have an impact on the whole school population. Research Suggest that Tier I supports should:  

• Reach a minimum of 75% of the students at the school.ÌýÌý
• Be offered at least 4 times a year to achieve the schoolwide goal.Ìý

Tier II supports are aimed at groups of students with a common need–these groups are made up of case-managed students, and designed to help those students meet the individual goals in their school support plans, aligned with the schoolwide goal. Students usually participate in Tier II supports on a regular basis for a sustained period of time.  

Tier III supports are also for our case managed students. We set individual goals with these students aligned with individual student needs and the schoolwide goal. Tier III supports are intensive, designed for the one-on-one setting, and targeted at highly specific needs. 

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As the leaves change and we approach the holiday season, ºÚÁϲ»´òìÈ (ºÚÁϲ»´òìÈWA) is excited to kick off theÌýSeason of Giving! This time of year is a powerful opportunity to reflect on the difference we can make in youths’ lives across the state—and we need your help.Ìý

Join Us in Making a DifferenceÌý

We invite you to join us in this season of giving. Whether through early donations or volunteering, your involvement helps us continue creating a network of support for students who need it most. Together, we can ensure that every student, regardless of their circumstances, has the chance to succeed. 

Spread Joy This Holiday Season

Your support has always been crucial, and as we head into the End of Year (EOY) season, there are several ways to get involved: 

• Early Donations: By giving, you’re setting the stage for a strong finish to the year. Early contributions allow us to continue offering vital support, like tutoring, counseling, and resources for students facing barriers to success. Every dollar helps keep a student on track, and your generosity ensures no student gets left behind.

• Volunteer and Participate with the Network: Our affiliates across Washington are working hard to ensure every student has access to the resources they need—and you can help! Whether it’s distributing supplies, serving as a mentor, organizing fundraisers, or participating in our EOY resource drives, your time and support make an incredible difference.

Corporate Partner Spotlight: Amazon and BOMBASÌý

We are beyond grateful for the incredible support from Amazon and BOMBAS this fall. Amazon’s generous 10,225 backpack kits filled with school supplies and BOMBAS’ 10,000 sock donations have made a direct impact on thousands of students. These essential items not only provide comfort and warmth but also ensure students are ready and equipped to engage in their education. Because of supporters like them—and YOU—students have the basic needs met so they can focus on what really matters: learning. 

To learn about ways you can become a partner, please contact Carina Raddatz atÌýcarina@ciswa.org.

Thank you for your continued support, generosity and being #AllinforKids.

P.S. If this message inspired you, please consider sharing with friends and family who may also want to support and get involved. Together, we can make a difference for youth all across Washington!

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About SSI

The 2024 Student Supports Institute is a three-day hybrid event hosted by Communities In Schools ® National designed to engage site coordinators, program managers, and school support staff from across the country. During this conference, attendees learn about professional development and networking through inspiring mainstage conversations, interactive breakout sessions, wellness breaks, and several opportunities to connect with their peers. 

Participation Highlights

At SSI 2024, the ºÚÁϲ»´òìÈ WA network delved into many sessions covering critical topics such as attendance strategies, career readiness, building effective data cultures, developmental relationships, family engagement, and school climate best practices. Through these sessions, attendees aimed to achieve core objectives:  

• Training in Integrated Student Supports: Participants received training in core concepts of integrated student support, equipping them with essential skills to better serve youth in need.
• Professional Development Opportunities: SSI provided many opportunities for professional growth, particularly in supervisory, coaching, and training responsibilities, empowering attendees to excel in their roles.
• Meaningful Connections: The event facilitated meaningful connections between experienced practitioners, allowing for knowledge sharing and collaboration on a national scale.

Key Learnings and Insights

Nikki Ziegler, Impact and Program Director at ºÚÁϲ»´òìÈWA, highlighted critical insights from the event, emphasizing the importance of integrating tier-one supports and family engagement. The sessions on chronic absenteeism and data analysis were also valuable, providing different perspectives and allowing the network to align its efforts with national initiatives and enhance its data-driven decision-making processes.  

The event also addressed the issue of burnout prevention and self-care, prompting reflection on supporting staff across various organizational roles. The emphasis on proactive data analysis and the role of program managers in data interpretation emerged as crucial takeaways, influencing future approaches to data management and analysis within ºÚÁϲ»´òìÈWA.   

Erica Limón-Trefielo, Associate Director at ºÚÁϲ»´òìÈWA, echoed the sentiment, emphasizing the significance of mainstage sessions on attendance strategies and family engagement. Collaborative opportunities and national partnerships revealed the potential to improve existing programs and address gaps in service delivery.  

, a Program Manager at ºÚÁϲ»´òìÈ of Blue Mountain Region, recently attended SSI for the first time and found it to be a valuable experience. One of the key takeaways from the event was the importance of aligning focus with passions and exploring new avenues for growth. During the breakout sessions, it was emphasized that revisiting foundational goals and mission is essential, especially amidst the distractions that accumulate over time.Ìý

The event emphasized the importance of returning to the basics, which was discussed during back-to-school events and refining communication strategies with donors and stakeholders. Networking sessions provided Addison with new perspectives and insight into shared struggles that often yield collective solutions. 

Attending the SSI not only helped Addison grow personally, but it also had a positive impact on the dynamics of her affiliate. This was evident when they returned to work after the conference and began working collaboratively on upcoming staff training initiatives. The skills and knowledge that they gained at the conference allowed them to work more efficiently and effectively as a team. Overall, attending the SSI had a very positive impact on Addison and her team, both in terms of personal growth and team dynamics. 

Practical Application and Collaboration

Nikki and Erica emphasized the practical application of SSI 2024’s learnings in their roles at ºÚÁϲ»´òìÈWA. Insights on chronic absenteeism and data analysis directly informed strategies for improving student outcomes and optimizing program effectiveness. National partnerships, such as with Harmony, presented opportunities to enhance SEL curriculum implementation and address the needs of elementary students.  

Additionally, Erica’s involvement in facilitating sessions on the integrated approach to professional development displayed ºÚÁϲ»´òìÈWA’s commitment to sharing expertise and learning from others. The emphasis on developmental relationships and youth mental health first aid underscored the importance of holistic student support approaches within the network.  

ºÚÁϲ»´òìÈ participation in the 2024 Student Support Institute showcased their dedication to student support and professional development. By engaging in sessions, networking opportunities, and collaborative initiatives, ºÚÁϲ»´òìÈWA representatives gained invaluable insights. They forged meaningful connections, positioning the network for continued success in its mission to empower students to stay in school and achieve in life. 

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• We collected and sorted over $39,000 worth of school supplies
• Fairgoers and community partners donated over 19,500 individual items
• All the supplies weighed in at 5,700 pounds–that’s the same as one hippopotamus!

On September 6th and 7th, over 100 volunteers collected, sorted, counted, and packaged supplies to go to kids in high-needs communities across the state. We’re so grateful to our affiliate network and the community volunteers who helped make this possible–in partnership with you, we’re excited to see these supplies help students start the school year strong!

We gratefully acknowledge these community partners in our network, who donated time, energy, and school supplies to this year’s drive:

• Brown & Brown
• WGU Washington
• US Bank
• HomeStreet Bank
• First Presbyterian Church
• Kaiser Permanente
• Federal Way Coalition Against Trafficking
• Moms Demand Action – Renton
• United Way of King and Pierce County
• National Air Traffic Controllers Association (NATCA)
• Farmers Insurance

A BIG shout out also goes to for the opportunity to host this drive and to for providing a truck, driver, and warehouse for supply collection and sorting.

Ìý Ìý

Miss this year’s drive? It’s not too late to make an impact for kids. Join us on our mission to empower students to stay in school and achieve in life, and make a donation today.ÌýÌý

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On March 9th, ºÚÁϲ»´òìÈ celebrated the 10th Anniversary of our Mardi Gras Dinner and Auction, and it was a NIGHT TO REMEMBER! Joined by over 200 supporters, we raised $258,000 to keep kids in school and on track to graduate.

Our annual Mardi Gras event raises funds so that all youth in Washington have the support they need to grow, graduate, and thrive. Thousands of kids in our state face overwhelming roadblocks to staying in school: homelessness, untreated medical or dental conditions, trauma, special needs, and lack of food, clothes, and school supplies. The Communities In Schools model intercedes by connecting kids with caring adults and resources designed to help students succeed. In Washington, it takes a network of 12 affiliates to serve over 80,000 kids–and at Mardi Gras, ºÚÁϲ»´òìÈ of Washington raises funds to further the impact of our network, ensuring the highest quality supports reach the most students possible.

At this year’s event, we’re honored that guest speakers from ºÚÁϲ»´òìÈ of Federal Way came to share the daily local impact of ºÚÁϲ»´òìÈ. Amber Rowe Mosley (Site Coordinator) and Kileigh Ann (student at Federal Way High School) both shared inspiring personal stories of our mission in action, and the transformative role of a caring adult in students’ lives. The night ended with an astounding $71,500 raised during our call for support—a true #AllinforKids moment.

Special thanks go to our Presenting Sponsor, Denali Advanced Integration, for getting the party started. We are so grateful to ALL the individuals, sponsors, volunteers, and in-kind donors who make our mission possible. We couldn’t be more proud to partner with you to benefit our youth in Washington state through this event.

To see more Mardi Gras photos, . We hope to see you next year!

Photos by Ellen Golden.

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The dinner and auction was hosted by Jaime Greene, ºÚÁϲ»´òìÈ of Renton Executive Director and Tana Peterson, ºÚÁϲ»´òìÈ of Renton Board Chair at the Renton Pavilion Event Center.Ìý The goal of raising $250,000 was achieved, making it the most successful fundraising event in the history of the organization.

Revenue from the event will support the growth and impact of the organization’s statewide network. The network affiliates employ a research-based model of site coordination which places a well-trained individual in partner schools to connect students at risk of school failure with community partners and resources that address both academic and nonacademic needs. During the 2016-17 school year, over 73,000 students benefited from school-wide services and an additional 4,971 received case management support from a site coordinator. ÌýOf these students served, 99% stayed in school and 93% of secondary students receiving case management support were promoted to the next grade or graduated.

Kaitlin Thomas, Lead Student Outreach Coordinator for ºÚÁϲ»´òìÈ of Federal Way presented the student story, highlighting the barriers faced and overcome by a student on track to graduate this spring with the hopes of attending Western Washington University.Ìý Supported since 4th grade, this featured student is a example of the impact the work of ºÚÁϲ»´òìÈ has on students and their families throughout the state.

Presenting sponsor, Unify Consulting, and other sponsors including Denali Advanced Integration, EMC2, and Cisco were in attendance as well as many others.

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On Friday, September 8th, Communities in Schools of Washington (ºÚÁϲ»´òìÈ) partnered with the Washington State Fair to collect school supplies for students in the ºÚÁϲ»´òìÈ network. This is the second year fair participants were invited to provide a donation of new school supplies at the gold or red gate and receive free admission into the fair from 10:30am – 12:30pm immediately following the rodeo parade.Ìý Over 60 ºÚÁϲ»´òìÈ volunteers helped collect school supplies and raise awareness for Communities In Schools programs.

This year, thanks to generous community donors, ºÚÁϲ»´òìÈ successfully collected over 30,000 school supply items with an estimated value of $30,500.Ìý The proceeds were divided among Communities In Schools affiliates in Washington State and will provide support for students in over 18 different school districts.

ºÚÁϲ»´òìÈ would like to provide a special thanks to the Washington State Fair and Peninsula Truck Lines, Inc. for their support.

To view pictures from the event please click .

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Saturday evening, March 11th was certainly one to remember! Guests decked out in beads, masks and festive costumes packed the Bellevue Hilton for ºÚÁϲ»´òìÈ’s 8th annual Mardi Gras Dinner & Auction presented by Matisia Consultants. Generous corporate and individual supporters contributed a record-setting $219,000 to expand student support and dropout prevention statewide.

Record-setting $219,000 raised to support students across Washington State.

The emcee for the evening,ÌýMarshun Newman, is a freshman at Washington State University and alumni of ºÚÁϲ»´òìÈ of Federal Way.

The evening opened with a VIP receptionÌýand then friendly bidding wars on silent auction items ranging from aÌýUW or WSU Football tickets, toÌýthree El Gaucho experiences, to a Tesla test drive experience. Guests enjoyed unique entertainment as well: a live band, a caricature artist, and even a fire show by a flame throwing entertainerÌýas guests arrived at the Hilton!

Rounding out the evening, Communities In Schools National President Dale Erquiaga recognized Art Jackson of CostcoÌýforÌýhis years of dedicated service to ºÚÁϲ»´òìÈ. A Mount Tahoma High School site coordinatorÌýand her student shared the story of their relationship.

Her story is just one example of howÌýCommunities In SchoolsÌýreachesÌýstudents and their familiesÌýin times of needÌýwith both academic and personal supports.

View and download Mardi Gras pics on our Facebook page!

Pictures from photographer Ellen Golden and Jared Martin are available for viewing and free download from the ºÚÁϲ»´òìÈ . If you have any trouble downloading photos, contact Marnie McManus, Development Manager, marnie@ciswa.org. Enjoy!

Sincere thanks to our generous sponsors!

Presenting: Matisia Consultants

Auction: Denali Advanced Integration

Diamond:ÌýCisco Systems, DellEMC

Emerald: Homestreet Bank, Safeway, SAP

Sapphire:ÌýAscent/US Bank, AT&T, Cash America, Fortinet, Tim & Jenny Haser, IBM, Parker Smith & Feek, TierPoint, Tito’s Handmade Vodka

Pearl: EMCS, Iron Mountain, JLL, Microsoft, Brian & Robin Rayfiled, RSM, Schneider Electric,

Carnival Fun: RSM

In-Kind: Sungraphics

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On September 9th, Communities in Schools of Washington (ºÚÁϲ»´òìÈ) partnered with the Washington State Fair to collect school supplies for students in the ºÚÁϲ»´òìÈ network. Fair participants were invited to provide a donation of new school supplies at the gold or red gate and receive free admission into the fair from 10am – 12pm.Ìý Over 60 ºÚÁϲ»´òìÈ volunteers helped collect school supplies and raise awareness for Communities In Schools programs.

This year, thanks to generous donors, ºÚÁϲ»´òìÈ successfully collected 2.5 tons of school supplies with an estimated value of $22,000 and collected $2000 in donations.Ìý The proceeds were divided amongÌý9 ºÚÁϲ»´òìÈ affiliates in Washington State and will provide support for students in 11 different school districts.

ºÚÁϲ»´òìÈ would like to provide a special thanks to the Washington State Fair and Peninsula Truck Lines, Inc. for their support.

To view pictures from the event please click .

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