NEWS

Teenagers today face more academic expectations than ever. Between homework, exams, extracurricular commitments, and social obligations, students often struggle to keep up with it all. Many parents and educators worry about how these mounting pressures affect emotional well-being. Finding balance between academic pressure and emotional health isn’t easy — but it’s possible. This article explores…

Have you ever watched a teen who’s clearly talented—good grades, a creative spark, a kind heart—yet seems unsure of themselves, hesitant to raise a hand, or stays quiet when they could shine? This hesitation often hides a deeper issue known as the confidence gap. At CIS Jax, we see how an adolescent’s ability to step…

Confidence doesn’t grow overnight. It comes from real experiences—facing challenges, working with others, and discovering personal strength. For teens, few settings offer these lessons as naturally as team sports. Whether on a soccer field, basketball court, or baseball diamond, young athletes learn much more than how to play a game. They develop communication skills, resilience,…

This school year, our dedicated case managers are present across 37 Duval County Public Schools, reaching nearly 5,000 students and their families. Each day, we are inspired by our students’ progress and the incredible support of our community. This inspiration drives us to keep showing up and investing in Jacksonville’s future. But don’t take our…

Academic Intervention Programs (AIPs) have long been used to help struggling students improve their academic performance. These programs provide tailored support, often focusing on specific areas like reading, math, or study skills. However, despite the best intentions of these programs, many students still fall through the cracks. One critical factor that is often overlooked in…

Clear communication is the cornerstone of successful education. When teachers, parents, and students communicate effectively, the educational experience thrives. However, a significant communication gap often exists between these groups, hindering student development. This gap can lead to misunderstandings, frustration, and missed opportunities for collaboration. Understanding why this gap exists and finding ways to bridge it…

High school is a pivotal time for personal growth and discovery. For many students, it’s not only about academics and extracurricular activities but also about finding their potential as leaders. Whether leading a sports team, organizing a school event, or taking charge of group projects, leadership in high school helps shape students’ futures in profound…

Many students spend years mastering subjects inside classrooms, yet often, their most powerful lessons happen outside school walls. When students step into real-world situations—through internships, volunteering, or community programs—they begin connecting what they’ve learned with how the world truly works. These experiences teach lessons that textbooks cannot capture: how to communicate, adapt, and think critically…

Being a teenager comes with a lot of challenges. From academic pressures to navigating social relationships, it’s easy for emotions to get the best of us. Teens are often expected to juggle responsibilities, from schoolwork to extracurricular activities, yet many struggle with teaching teens emotional regulation. When emotions take over, productivity can suffer, and stress…

On a sunny afternoon, a group of children gathers outside with nothing more than sticks, a soccer ball, and boundless energy. Within minutes, they’ve organized themselves into teams, made rules for a new game, and started playing. Arguments break out over scoring, creative fixes are suggested, and strategies are tested. What looks like simple fun…