New research from Opportunity Insights and the EdRedesign Lab at the Harvard Graduate School of Education provides strong evidence that the Communities In Schools (CIS) model creates lasting benefits for students. The study found that students who received three years of CIS support during middle school were 5.2% more likely to graduate high school, 9.1% more likely to enroll in a two-year college, and earned approximately 4.3% more annually by age 27. The research also found improvements in academic performance, attendance, and behavior.
These findings highlight the value of the CIS approach: combining trusted relationships with personalized support to address each student’s individual needs. By connecting students with resources such as tutoring, mentoring, food assistance, housing support, and other services, CIS helps remove barriers that can stand in the way of success. The study demonstrates that surrounding students with a community of support can make a difference not only during their school years, but well into adulthood.
