February 3, 2022 – Communities In Schools of Northern Virginia (CIS NOVA), an affiliate of a national organization working to ensure every student, regardless of race, zip code, or history of marginalization has what they need to succeed in school and beyond, today announced it is part of a unprecedented gift from author and philanthropist MacKenzie Scott to the Communities In Schools Network and National Office.
Earlier today, Communities In Schools, Inc. announced the unprecedented $133.5 million donation from Scott. In addition to the CIS National Office, 40 affiliates of the 110 organizations in the CIS Network were also direct recipients of the MacKenzie Scott donation, including CIS NOVA.
In a time when the global pandemic has created unparalleled challenges for students and families, including experiences of social isolation, economic crisis, stress, and trauma. Currently CIS NOVA partners with nine schools, serving more than 13,000 students across Arlington, Alexandria and Fairfax to break down the systemic barriers that stand in the way of opportunity and student success. The gift from Scott will help catalyze growth, but it does not change the reality of the continued work ahead to support students in nearly 60 area Title I schools and the public and private partnership necessary to reach all students and schools in need of support.
“It is the passion of our school-based staff all day, every day to help kids that is being recognized with this gift,” said Patrick Brennan, Executive Director of CIS NOVA.
Read more here: The Washington Post’s article – MacKenzie Scott donates $133 million for in-school support services