NEWS

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…

Communication is more than just exchanging words; it’s about understanding and connecting with one another. For children, effective communication goes beyond speaking—it includes the critical skill of listening. In a world filled with distractions, teaching kids the art of listening is a gift that will benefit them throughout their lives. From the classroom to the…

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…

The path to academic success is filled with challenges, obstacles, and moments of self-doubt. Yet, one of the most powerful tools students can use to stay on course and ensure continued growth is the use of personal goal trackers. These trackers help students take ownership of their educational journeys, allowing them to monitor their progress,…

The Coach Foundation is awarding their Dream It Real college scholarship to two seniors from William Raines High School who are part of the Communities In Schools of Jacksonville program, helping them turn their dreams of higher education into reality. On April 15, 2025, the Coach Foundation proudly announced the recipients of the scholarship: siblings…

Elementary school is more than just learning to read and solve math problems. It’s also a time when children learn how to work with others, communicate clearly, and understand how to express themselves in healthy ways. One of the best ways to support that growth? Group games. Whether it’s a game of tag, a classroom…

It’s not just about having the right technical skills. Employers are increasingly looking for young professionals who can work well with others, communicate effectively, and think critically. These “soft skills” are essential in any career, whether it’s in an office, on a construction site, or in a remote working environment. But here’s the catch: soft…

A group of high schoolers huddles around a table, wiring sensors to a small robot. They’re not just building a machine—they’re learning to work as a team, share ideas, and cheer each other on through trial and error. This is what happens in a robotics programs. It’s not just about science and technology. It’s about…

Staying focused can be tough for teenagers. With school, social pressures, home responsibilities, and thoughts about the future all competing for attention, it’s easy for young people to feel overwhelmed or uncertain. That’s where goal-setting activities come in. At CIS Jax, we’ve seen firsthand how helping students set clear, realistic goals can give them direction…