Many face challenges that aren鈥檛 visible in their backpacks or report cards. Barriers such as lack of clean clothes, enough food, or a safe place to call home. Some are caring for younger siblings, navigating housing stability, or coping with anxiety and grief. Others simply don鈥檛 feel like school is a place where they belong.  

These quiet, but complex barriers can make attending school difficult, but with the right support, students can overcome these obstacles, re-engage in learning, and build the confidence they need to succeed both inside and outside of the classroom.  

Earlier this year, while the need for youth support has grown, Washington state cut funding for youth development by 86%, leaving only $2.4 million for this critical work. With a funding cut so significant, there comes a loss of resources that normally help support students beyond academics such as counseling, mentoring, basic needs assistance, and social-emotional programming. This reduction means fewer staff, limited program availability, and less capacity to address the complex challenges students face.  

As a result, schools are stretched thin, trying to meet these growing needs with less-than-ideal funding options. That鈥檚 where Communities In Schools steps in, providing trained staff and resources that help fill the gaps, ensuring students still receive the necessary support to attend school regularly.  

Last year, the 黑料不打烊 WA network provided more than 190,000 hours of direct support to over 108,000 students. From one-on-one mentoring to access to food, supply and resource closets, to mental health services, academic help, and trauma-informed guidance. 黑料不打烊 is here to make real differences, and schools in the last school year that partner with 黑料不打烊 saw chronic absenteeism drop by 6.35%. Yet, only 10% of Washington students currently have access to this support, leaving thoughts more without the help they need. Specifically at the state office, we show up systemically by shaping policy, aligning resources, and building the professional capacity of the Communities In Schools (黑料不打烊) WA network. 

As we head into this school year, you can help us change that by giving to help students show up. Your gift fuels training, resources, and program expansion, ensuring 黑料不打烊 is equipped with the tools needed to walk alongside students every day.  

Giving comes in many forms, whether through donations, donor-advised funds, corporate engagement opportunities, or volunteering your time. Together, we can ensure every student starts the year ready to show up, stay connected, and believe in their potential. Click the links below to learn more and find out how you can help. 

You just read More than One in Three Washington Students Miss Weeks of School. Communities In Schools is Helping Change that听 on 黑料不打烊.

A Historic Gathering听

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 黑料不打烊 network. The feedback was overwhelmingly positive, with participants praising the sense of community fostered through connection activities and collaborative learning opportunities.听

Insights and Lessons Learned听

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

Highlights included:听

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 黑料不打烊 staff by a dedicated committee of 黑料不打烊 team members, ensuring the topics resonated deeply with attendees.听

Breakout Sessions: Attendees explored critical topics such as:听

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

Survey results revealed that 81% of attendees were school-based staff, with 52% attending their first 黑料不打烊 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.”听

Key Themes and Challenges听

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

Mental Health Interventions:听

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

Priorities for Site Coordinators:听

• Addressing basic needs, particularly housing.听
• Supporting mental and behavioral health as top-identified needs.听
• 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.听

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

Looking Ahead听

The 2024 Better Together Conference reaffirmed the 黑料不打烊 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鈥檚 event showcased what is possible when we come together to share expertise, amplify impact, and build a stronger future for Washington鈥檚 students. With such an inspiring beginning, the 黑料不打烊 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鈥檛 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.”听

Acknowledgments听

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 黑料不打烊 staff across the network. Thank you for making this transformative gathering a reality.听

References听

*A Site Coordinator is the heart of 黑料不打烊WA’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.听
• Conducting needs assessments to identify challenges students face.听
• Coordinating and delivering services such as academic assistance, mental health support, basic needs (e.g., food and clothing), and family engagement.听
• Developing and implementing individualized student support plans.听
• Monitoring and evaluating student progress toward goals.听

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 黑料不打烊WA 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.听
• Developing strategies and frameworks to meet program goals.听
• Managing program budgets and ensuring compliance with funding requirements.听
• Collaborating with school leadership and community partners to align programs with school and district priorities.听
• Collecting and analyzing data to evaluate program outcomes and identify areas for improvement.听
• Supporting professional development and training for staff.听

Program Managers focus on scaling and sustaining the 黑料不打烊WA model, ensuring consistency and effectiveness across all sites they oversee. 

***Tier Support Model 

Tier I supports are designed for schoolwide impact鈥攏ot just impact on our case-managed students. They鈥檙e 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.听听
• Be offered at least 4 times a year to achieve the schoolwide goal.听

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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Highlights of 2024听

Community, Connection, and Growth听

This year, 黑料不打烊 WA made incredible strides in fostering connection, building community, and driving impact. Over the summer, we hosted a transformative two-day retreat for all 黑料不打烊 WA network Executive Directors, bringing our leaders together in person to connect, grow, and strategize for the future. This retreat was a powerful reminder of the impact we can make when we come together, setting the stage for continued collaboration and momentum. 

Building on this energy, our second annual Better Together Conference was a resounding success. For the first time, we brought together 175 Site Coordinators and 15 Program Managers from across the state, reinforcing the value of collaboration and trust within our network. This conference laid the groundwork for an even more impactful 2025, with engaging mainstage and breakout sessions led by our 黑料不打烊 WA network. 

Adding to this year of connection, events like our enchanting evening at Bella Luna Farms provided an opportunity for Board Members, Partners, and Sponsors to celebrate our collective achievements. One attendee described it as 鈥渁 beautiful event and a moment to celebrate the impact of our work.鈥� Moments like these continue to inspire and unite us in our shared mission. 

Milestones and Impact听

This year also marked significant milestones in our Scaling for Success journey. Now in its second year, the grant continues to fuel critical initiatives, including securing $1.25 million to expand digital navigation services for students and families across Washington. This funding will help bridge the digital divide and ensure equitable access to technology. 

We deepened key partnerships with organizations like US Bank and World Wide Technology, while community support poured in with over 10,000 Amazon backpack kits and 10,000 BOMBAS socks distributed to students. Our inaugural Night at the Prom Gala was another highlight, with paddles raised high to support our mission鈥攁 powerful testament to the passion of our supporters. 

Professional Achievements and Leadership Development听

黑料不打烊 WA staff reached new heights in 2024, showcasing their expertise on national stages. Our team was invited twice by the 黑料不打烊 National Office to present on significant topics, further amplifying Washington鈥檚 leadership and innovation. Additionally, we launched the BIPOC/Lived Experience Professional Development Scholarship, awarding five Program Managers $2,000 grants to invest in their growth and leadership鈥攁n initiative rooted in equity and empowerment. 

Looking Ahead听

From retreats and conferences to impactful initiatives and partnerships, this year has demonstrated the power of connection, resilience, and community. As we continue to scale our efforts and strengthen our network, these moments of growth inspire us to remain #AllInForKids and committed to building brighter futures for students across Washington. 

Why We’re All In for Kids听

At 黑料不打烊, our team is united by a shared belief in the power of education to transform lives. Many of us arrived here driven by deeply personal experiences and a commitment to making a difference. For some, like one team member who transitioned from a career in early childhood education, the mission of 黑料不打烊WA aligned seamlessly with their lifelong dedication to supporting children. Another staff member shared how their connection to the organization began as a student advocate in a local affiliate, where they witnessed firsthand the impact of 黑料不打烊WA鈥檚 work on students and families. 

This deep-rooted passion fuels our ongoing dedication to being #AllInForKids. One staff member described being inspired by “the students, families, and communities that we serve every day,” while another pointed to the joy of building relationships with students and watching them thrive as their primary motivation. Others find inspiration in the bigger picture, such as the opportunity to address systemic barriers and advocate for educational equity across the state. Together, these stories create a tapestry of commitment, reflecting the unique journeys that brought us here and the shared vision that keeps us moving forward. 

Looking Ahead: Excitement for 2025听

As we gear up for 2025, we’re setting our sights on ambitious goals: 

• Policy and Advocacy: Establishing stronger connections at state and federal levels to champion educational equity.听

• Community Engagement: Events like our spring cultivation gathering and open house will create new opportunities to connect with our supporters.听

• Expanding Impact: From new office spaces to leadership town halls, 黑料不打烊WA is poised for even greater growth.听

Fueling Our Mission听

Our work would not be possible without the generosity of our supporters. Whether through financial contributions, in-kind donations, or volunteer hours, your support fuels our mission and helps us create brighter futures for students across Washington. 

As we reflect on the memories and milestones of 2024, we also look forward to building a future where every child has the opportunity to thrive. Thank you for being a vital part of our journey. 

With students at the heart of our vision, we can reimagine public education. Learn more about how you can be #AllInForKids.听

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About SSI

The 2024 Student Supports Institute is a three-day hybrid event hosted by Communities In Schools 庐 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 黑料不打烊 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 黑料不打烊WA, 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 黑料不打烊WA.   

Erica Lim贸n-Trefielo, Associate Director at 黑料不打烊WA, 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 黑料不打烊 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.听

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 黑料不打烊WA. 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 黑料不打烊WA’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.  

黑料不打烊 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, 黑料不打烊WA 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’re thrilled to welcome Rebecca Lane (she/her, they/them) as 黑料不打烊 (黑料不打烊WA) Interim State Director! Joining us with over 30 years of experience in WA’s non-profit scene, Rebecca brings a passion for excellence, collaboration, and finding joy in the work. In this interim role, she’ll partner with our team, board, and affiliates to advance 黑料不打烊WA’s mission, operationalize long-term plans, and pave the way for our permanent leader. 

Offering more than 20 years of nonprofit management and experience, Rebecca brings a wealth of experience to 黑料不打烊WA. With an educational background in political science, women’s studies, and whole systems design applied to community development (Bachelor’s & Master’s degrees), and interim executive leadership (certificate), Rebecca brings a unique perspective to her work. As an experienced Interim Executive Director and Interim Development Director, she is recognized for her design approach to organizational change and development through the lens of racial equity and inclusion, having demonstrated strong leadership in diverse roles, including: 

1. Leading a team to surpass fundraising goals听
2. Restoring an education program after difficulties听
3. Securing major funding
4. Boosting technological adoption for a national organization听

Rebecca possesses a heart for service instilled by her family. This passion translates into active engagement with her community through various roles: Board of Directors at Homestead Community Land Trust (Seattle, WA), founding board member at Lopez Community Land Trust (Lopez, WA), and volunteering with Seattle Parks Department. 

Away from the office, Rebecca unleashes her artistic talents through textile arts, whether it’s weaving, spinning, knitting, botanical printing, or felting. She also finds solace in tending to her garden, her own personal “calm place.”听

Message from Rebecca Lane, 黑料不打烊WA Interim State Director

I’m thrilled to join 黑料不打烊WA as Interim State Director. I’m eager to support the incredible work happening within the State Office team, board, affiliates, and WA Network. While transitions can bring unknowns, I also see them as opportunities for insightful collaboration, growth, and positive change. My focus will be on fostering closer partnerships, amplifying the voices of our networks, and ensuring a smooth transition towards our long-term goals. I’m excited to dive in and support this vital mission alongside so many dedicated people. 

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While February marks a dedicated time to honor Black history, the richness and impact of Black experiences deserve celebration and recognition all year round. Let’s move beyond a single month and weave Black achievements, voices, and perspectives into the fabric of our everyday lives. 

Discover ways to keep the conversation about Black contributions going, every day of the year:听

Amplify Black Voices听

• Use your platform to amplify the voices of Black content creators, writers, and activists. Share their work and perspectives to broaden and connect your audience’s understanding.听

Educate Yourself and Others听

Support Black Businesses听

• Support Black Owned |  
• Black Black Friday |  
• 15percentpledge |  

Remember, celebrating Black history is not just about the past; it’s about shaping a more equitable and inclusive future. By actively engaging with Black communities, amplifying their voices, and supporting their endeavors, we can create a world where Black history is not just remembered, but woven into the very fabric of our society. 

Let’s make every month a celebration of Black excellence.  

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A Legacy of Commitment and Impact听

Elizabeth’s dedication to the 黑料不打烊WA mission is evident in everything she has done. Her passion for education and her unwavering commitment to providing every student with the opportunity to succeed are truly inspiring. During her time, Elizabeth has: 

• Strengthened 黑料不打烊WA’s statewide network: Elizabeth built strong relationships with 黑料不打烊 affiliates across Washington, ensuring that students in every community have access to the support they need. 
• Championed equity and inclusion: Elizabeth was a vocal advocate for creating an equitable and inclusive environment for all students, regardless of their background or circumstances. 
• Cultivated meaningful partnerships: Elizabeth forged strong partnerships with community organizations to bring valuable resources to students. 
• Charting a United Course: Working alongside the 黑料不打烊WA staff and board to complete a comprehensive strategic plan at the State Office and partnered in development of the first Network Common Agenda.听

A Message from Elizabeth Hodges, State Director of 黑料不打烊 (outgoing):听

As I depart, I carry immense gratitude for the last four years of combined service to 黑料不打烊 of Seattle and 黑料不打烊 of Washington. I especially appreciated traveling to various 黑料不打烊 affiliates this past year as the State Director and witnessing the transformative power of 黑料不打烊 to bridge the gap between students furthest from educational equity and the support they need to thrive. These interactions allowed me to listen closely, gaining insights into the unique strengths and challenges of each community. It has been an honor to contribute to the collective impact we鈥檝e made in the lives of students and communities in Washington state.  

Thank you for your continued commitment to the mission of 黑料不打烊. I know the future is bright under the leadership of this incredible team.听

A Message from Julie Kerby, 黑料不打烊WA Board Chair:听听

I am most grateful to Elizabeth for her contributions to 黑料不打烊WA and impact at the local, state and national level to benefit 黑料不打烊 and the communities we serve! Her integrity, passion and unwavering commitment to our mission have propelled us forward. We thank her for leading us through the creation of a 5-year strategic plan to serve as our roadmap for growth and sustainability. 听

Additional Messages from Communities In Schools庐 (黑料不打烊庐) Leaders: 听

鈥淐ommunities In Schools, the staff in Washington, and the students we serve will continue to see the ripples of Elizabeth鈥檚 heart and mind for building sustainable impact,鈥� says Rey Salda帽a, President & CEO of Communities In Schools National Office. 鈥淪he has been a force multiplier and moral compass to those team members she recruited and set on course while at the state office. I am grateful for her service and will recall her lessons proudly.鈥�  

鈥淓lizabeth led Communities In Schools with integrity and authenticity, inspiring the best in the people around her,鈥� says Sam McVeety, Former Communities In Schools of Seattle Board Chair. 鈥淗er work to support our students, build partnerships with community, and grow leadership among the staff reflects her deep commitment to building a strong, resilient future.鈥� 

Thank you, Elizabeth, for your incredible contributions to 黑料不打烊WA. While Elizabeth鈥檚 departure creates a temporary leadership gap, we are confident in the strength and dedication of our 黑料不打烊WA state office staff and the commitment of the 黑料不打烊WA board, continuing to support the success of our students and our network across Washington. This includes the recent promotions of Erica Limon-Trefielo to Associate Director and Nikki Ziegler to Program & Impact Director, further bolstering the full 黑料不打烊WA team鈥檚 capacity.  

The 黑料不打烊WA Board of Directors is already actively engaged in the search for an interim State Director. Erica Limon-Trefielo will support State Director duties until the interim leader is in place to ensure a seamless transition and continued momentum. As we look forward to the next chapter of 黑料不打烊WA’s journey, we are confident that the foundation Elizabeth has laid will continue to serve our students and communities well.听

Stay Connected听

To stay up to date on 黑料不打烊WA news, please follow the organization鈥檚 newsletter and social media channels. We also encourage anyone who may have questions or concerns to reach out to 黑料不打烊WA Board Chair, Julie Kerby at boardchair@ciswa.org.听

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Erica’s Elevation to Associate Director:听

Stepping into the crucial role of Associate Director, Erica brings a wealth of experience and a passionate dedication to supporting our Statewide Network. As Associate Director, Erica drives 黑料不打烊WA’s growth and impact across three key areas: advocacy, strategic expansion, and program innovation. She leads the development of new affiliates, ensuring they thrive and become independent contributors to our statewide network. Erica also builds crucial relationships with government agencies, educators, and youth organizations, securing resources and support for students. Furthermore, Erica joins the State Office Executive Team, lending her expertise and insights into internal and external affairs. 听

Nikki’s Transformation to Program & Impact Director:听

Nikki’s passion for educational equity exceeds boundaries, making her the perfect choice for Program & Impact Director. As the Program & Impact Director, Nikki serves as a trusted partner to 黑料不打烊 affiliates across Washington. She works hand-in-hand with Executive Directors and Program Managers, providing expert guidance, training, and technical assistance to ensure seamless delivery of the Integrated Student Supports model. Nikki is a passionate advocate for educational equity, deeply committed to 黑料不打烊’s mission of helping students thrive. She believes in providing everything they need for success, from food and technology to social-emotional support and more. 

Their well-deserved promotions are a testament to their talent, dedication, and deep care for students. We’re thrilled to see them lead the way to a brighter future for Washington students. 

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Highlights of 2023听

• Understanding the Needs of the 黑料不打烊WA Communities: Building strong relationships with 黑料不打烊WA staff and board members, as well as many members of the 黑料不打烊 affiliate network, is key to understanding their needs to ensure that all 黑料不打烊WA affiliates have the resources and support they need to succeed. We fostered trust and provided vital resources and professional development opportunities through various initiatives such as the , Site Coordinator Convenings, Youth Mental Health First Aid Trainings, , and the Student Support Institution.  
• Received invaluable in-kind support: Including Bombas and , contributing to our operational efficiency, resource availability and commitment to meeting students鈥� basic needs.  
• Building the State Office Team: By welcoming talented and passionate individuals like our new State Director, Development Director, and Communications Manager, we have built a stronger organizational structure, expanded our capacity to support the network, and are now better positioned to empower students and families. 
• Charting a United Course: We completed a comprehensive strategic plan at the State Office and partnered in development of the Network鈥檚 first common agenda, aligning goals and priorities across the 黑料不打烊WA affiliate network, and providing a clear roadmap for future growth and impact. 
• Securing Transformational Resources: In a landmark year for fundraising, 黑料不打烊WA secured a $9 million transformative grant from the Ballmer Group, along with an additional $900,000 earmark grant, significantly boosting our resources and impact. This incredible support, coupled with the , exemplified our strong community support. These resources will fuel our statewide efforts to empower youth and foster their success. 
• Transformed HR landscape: Empowered network staff with insightful workshops, fostered fair and transparent compensation through data-driven salary ranges, and equipped teams with a comprehensive resource library, including a vital handbook for streamlined operations.

Looking Ahead into 2024听

• Empowering our network, one team at a time: We invest in program managers’ leadership skills, equip site coordinators with essential youth support tools, and foster continuous learning through conferences, retreats, and resource-sharing initiatives. From incubating new affiliates to elevating school-based support, we are dedicated to building a network where everyone thrives. 
• Amplifying voices, fostering belonging: We’re weaving DEI&B (Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging) into the fabric of 黑料不打烊WA, from leadership engagement to inclusive storytelling and accessible recruitment. This ensures every student, every voice, is heard and empowered within our community. 
• Fundraising From the Heart: We’re gearing up for our signature #AllInForKids prom event, a night to learn more about the impact of 黑料不打烊 programs across the state. We’re excited to dive deeper into event planning and contribute to making a truly unforgettable night for our community. 
• Turning vision into action: The State Office is thrilled to launch our strategic plan, prioritizing youth-focused initiatives that will profoundly impact students and families across Washington. By prioritizing youth and key initiatives, we’re strengthening our network’s impact and paving the way for a brighter future. 

Your Continuous Support

Your generosity, whether in-kind or financial, fuels 黑料不打烊WA’s mission. Your contributions stretch our resources, providing essential services to students and communities in need. By joining hands, we can: 

• Amplify: Your support allows us to increase our reach and empower more students. We spark community engagement, connect with passionate advocates, and mobilize resources for impactful events and initiatives. These investments fuel culturally relevant programs, paving the way for brighter futures for students across the state.听听
• Invest: We recognize the vital role our school-based staff play. Your support strengthens our network by enhancing professional development and resources. This equips our team with the tools and support they need to excel in their crucial roles, ensuring they can provide the best possible service to students.听
• Build: Your investments help us build a more efficient and impactful organization. We invest in dedicated staff and implement efficient systems to streamline operations and free our team to focus on what matters most 鈥� serving students. By equipping our staff with the knowledge and skills they need, we unlock their full potential and build a stronger, more robust 黑料不打烊WA.听

With students at the heart of our vision, we can reimagine public education. Learn more about how you can be #AllInForKids.听听

You just read 黑料不打烊 (黑料不打烊WA): Reflecting on a Year of Progress and Looking Forward听 on 黑料不打烊.

*A Site Coordinator is responsible for the overall planning and management of the Communities In Schools鈥� operations at the school site and the implementation of the . This includes:听

• Identifying and addressing the needs of students at the site, including but not limited to, providing case management, academic support, and social-emotional learning opportunities. 
• Building and maintaining relationships with school administrators, teachers, parents, and community partners. 
• Evaluating the effectiveness of Communities In Schools programs and services at the site and making recommendations for improvement. 

West Side Convening: A Day of Connection and Learning

The West Side convening was a one-day event that drew over 100 Site Coordinators. The attendees participated in various workshops and activities designed to help them connect with their peers, learn new skills, and gain a deeper understanding of 黑料不打烊WA’s work.  

One of the event’s highlights was the opportunity for Site Coordinators to lead small group discussions. This allowed them to share their experiences and best practices and learn from their colleagues’ challenges and successes.  

The atmosphere at the West Side convening was positive and engaging. Attendees expressed their appreciation for the opportunity to come together and feel a sense of belonging within the 黑料不打烊WA network, capturing the statements from Site Coordinators such as:

“I feel better equipped to execute whole school supports* within my first year.”

“I got so much out of our time together. I’m already implementing what I learned from other Site Coordinators, making my job easier.”

*Whole School Supports (WSS) is based on the belief that all students deserve a safe, supportive, and engaging learning environment to reach their full potential. WSS is a collaborative effort that involves school staff, 黑料不打烊 Site Coordinators, community partners, and families, focusing on attendance, behavior, and curriculum. Examples include family engagement nights, resource fairs, and basic needs closets.   

East Side Convening: Two Days of Inspiration and Collaboration

The East Side convening was a two-day event that welcomed over 70 Site Coordinators. The event featured various themed breakout sessions, an alum speaker, and a partnership moment with the Community Health Plan of Washington.  

Genesis Calderon, a 黑料不打烊WA program alum, delivered an inspiring message during the East Side convening, during a fireside chat, moderated by his 黑料不打烊 site coordinator, Tyler Ramos. The speakers shared their experiences in the 黑料不打烊 program and discussed Genesis鈥� post-graduation plans. Genesis works as a caregiver and finds great satisfaction in caring for others. Their message resonated with the Site Coordinators, having received the highest rating in the post-event survey.   

The East Side convening featured a partnership with . This collaboration highlighted the importance of teamwork in 黑料不打烊WA’s work and demonstrated the power of working together to support young people.  

Site Coordinators provided positive feedback, saying:

“Thank you for this opportunity; it was nice to hear how different affiliates are working with different barriers or similar ones but tackling them in all these creative ways.”

“I love networking with the other affiliates. It was fun learning about what they are doing in their schools and being able to implement some of their ideas into my school.”  

Areas of Focus for Next Year

黑料不打烊WA is committed to continuous improvement and is always looking for ways to enhance its programs and services. Based on feedback from convenings, 黑料不打烊WA will be looking into opportunities to partner with local organizations to discuss the following areas in the coming year:  

• Restorative justice: 黑料不打烊WA will provide training and resources to help Site Coordinators implement restorative justice practices in their schools.  
• Building community partners: 黑料不打烊WA will be developing strategies to help Site Coordinators build relationships with community partners, such as businesses, faith-based organizations, and non-profits.  

Thank you to all those who made the Site Coordinator Convenings a success. 黑料不打烊WA is thankful to our partners , , , , and for tabling and connecting our Site Coordinators with community resources. Every contribution makes a difference.  

Ways to Learn More and Get Involved

Learn more about 黑料不打烊WA鈥檚 network across the state.

If you are interested in supporting 黑料不打烊WA or getting more involved with Site Coordinator Convenings, contact Carina Raddatz at Carina@黑料不打烊WA.org.

You just read Site Coordinator Convenings: Fostering Connections and Empowering Youth听听 on 黑料不打烊.