NEWS

Public speaking is one of the most common fears among people of all ages. For teens, this fear can be particularly paralyzing, often affecting their confidence in school presentations, job interviews, and social interactions. The fear of speaking in front of others can also affect their ability to express themselves clearly and confidently, which can…

For many teenagers, the thought of writing a personal statement can feel overwhelming. Whether it’s for a college application, scholarship, or a job opportunity, a personal statement is often one of the most significant components of the application process. It is a chance for young people to showcase their individuality, experiences, and aspirations, but it…

While summer should be full of fun and sunny adventures, there’s one kind of “slide” we try to avoid—the Summer Slide, or summer learning loss. According to the American Educational Research Association, students can lose over a third of their academic progress in reading and math during the break. The impact is even more significant…

Stepping into higher education can feel like exploring uncharted territory. For many young people whose parents never attended college, the path ahead can seem unclear. CIS Jax understands these challenges. We guide first-generation college students through each phase—from early awareness to graduation and beyond. This article explores how CIS Jax meets their needs with targeted…

Have you seen a group of students move in sync, cheering loudly for each other? That energy goes beyond the routine. It sparks trust, lifts spirits, and helps young people learn crucial life skills. Dance and cheerleading offer more than performance. They guide students toward teamwork and confidence. At CIS Jax, we see how these…

A firm handshake, a polite greeting, or a respectful way to ask a question—these small acts can shape how others see us long before our skills come into play. Young people preparing for jobs often focus on hard skills, but learning how to behave in a professional setting matters just as much. When students try…

Job interviews are a reality for every young person entering the workforce. But for many teens, the idea of sitting across from a hiring manager and answering questions about themselves is stressful and unfamiliar. This is where mock interviews come in. Mock interviews help teens get comfortable in professional settings before they face real-life hiring…

In a world where traditional classroom learning can feel disconnected from real-world applications, students are looking for ways to bridge the gap. It’s no longer enough to simply learn theories or read about concepts. The need for hands-on, practical experience has become essential. This is where learning by doing comes into play—an approach that focuses…

The Jim Moran Foundation, as part of its 25th anniversary celebration, awarded a $1 million grant to support Communities In Schools of Jacksonville’s new Leon Baxton Legacy Fund. Communities In Schools of Jacksonville launched a $3.5 million campaign in early 2025 to celebrate its 35th anniversary and honor CEO Baxton’s 33 years of service by…

Project-based activities can be a challenge, but they also hold the key to growth, learning, and the development of crucial skills. Whether in a classroom, corporate setting, or afterschool programs, the approach we take toward failure can significantly shape the outcome of any project. Failure isn’t always a setback—it can serve as a feedback mechanism…