NEWS

According to the National Center for Educational Statistics, about one in five high school students drops out before graduation. Although the percentage of dropouts has been declining over the past three decades, the number of students who forego getting a high school diploma is still too high. Communities In School of Jacksonville is dedicated to helping…

How many times have you heard students complain that they don’t see any value in what they are learning in school or that they will never use the skills their teacher is forcing on them? Modern education is suffering from a severe lack of student engagement and a widespread apathy among even younger learners regarding their…

After-school programs are a key ingredient to a healthy and vibrant community. Children are the leaders of the future, so it’s critical to invest in their physical and emotional health and well-being. After school learning programs offer a wide variety of benefits and life lessons to participating students. Children will have a safe place to go…

While the value of a quality education is indisputable, not all learning takes place in a traditional classroom in teacher-led lessons. Today’s students need to explore and express themselves through hands-on learning and creative demonstration. In addition to traditional academics, programs like theater help develop the whole child. Here are a few skills students can…

What is Service Learning?According to the National Dropout Prevention Center/Network, “Service-learning is a teaching and learning method that connects meaningful community service experiences with academic learning, personal growth, and civic responsibility.”Service learning connects students with the real world, and its implications are greatly beneficial to youth. Students who are exposed to real-life circumstances that encourage…

“As we look ahead into the next century, leaders will be those who empower others.” – Bill GatesWhether you’re a mentor, employer, parent, or teacher, there are countless ways for you to be a leader and empower others. The concept of leadership has shifted from telling others what to do to empowering them to discover…

“Reading is to the mind what exercise is to the body.” – Richard SteeleReading is known to have a positive effect on our brains. It not only broadens our minds and teaches us new words, but also helps us learn about ourselves and develop empathy for others and analytical and relationship-building skills. It requires concentration…

Safety in our schools is a collective effort, requiring the participation of administrators, educators, kitchen staff, coaches, bus drivers, and maintenance staff. If everyone is on board it will create an inclusive environment for all students. School safety can be improved by promoting, teaching, and exhibiting respect at all times. In order to prevent bullying,…

“A leader is someone who demonstrates what’s possible.” – Mark YarnellYoung people live in a diverse world characterized by great pressures and responsibilities, changing technology, and challenges in the job market. They are the next generation of leaders in our workplace and in our communities. For our country to succeed, we need to empower them…

The greatest impact you make on the world just might occur through mentoring the young. Your presence in the life of an at-risk mentee could change their outlook and lead them on a path to success, with a multiplier effect upon others that is incalculable. At the same time, you as a mentor will grow…