Communities In Schools of Kent and Communities In Schools of Federal Way Announce Merger to Enhance Student Support Across 27 Schools in two Districts
Kent, WA – September 10, 2024 – Communities In Schools of Kent and Communities In Schools of Federal Way are excited to announce their merger, uniting under the banner of Communities In Schools of South King County. This strategic merger will amplify the impact of both organizations, allowing for more comprehensive support to over 1,000 students across 27 schools in two school districts.
Through this merger, the combined organization will leverage its collective resources, expertise, and community connections to provide even more robust support to students and families. The focus remains on removing barriers to success, ensuring that every student, regardless of background, can thrive.
“The merger expands our capacity to connect with school districts, students, and families in South King County who currently lack access to Communities In Schools resources,” said David de la Fuente, Executive Director of Communities In Schools of South King County.
“By merging Communities In Schools of Kent and Communities In Schools of Federal Way-Highline to form Communities In Schools of South King County, we can collaborate more effectively across the region. This partnership allows us to combine our strengths and expertise, ultimately enhancing our impact on young people, their families, and the broader community,” said Erica Limón-Trefielo, Associate Director at Communities In Schools of Washington.
The merger positions Communities In Schools of South King County to achieve greater success in key areas, including:
- Increased Reach: The merger expands the organization’s capacity to serve more students and schools, ensuring a wider impact across the community.
- Enhanced Resources: By combining forces, the organization can optimize resources, leading to more effective programs and initiatives that directly benefit students.
- Stronger Partnerships: The unified organization will be better positioned to forge new partnerships and strengthen existing ones, further bolstering support for students.
- Streamlined Operations: The merger allows for improved operational efficiency, ensuring that more funds and resources are directed to on-the-ground support for students.
As Communities In Schools of South King County embarks on this new chapter, the continued support of the community is vital. Whether through volunteering, donations, or partnerships, there are many ways to get involved and make a difference in the lives of students. The merger represents a significant step forward in our mission to ensure every student has the support they need to succeed in school and in life.
For more information or to get involved, please contact:
Marisa Carpenter
Resource Development Manager
Communities In Schools of South King County
marisac@cisskc.org
Marquis Johnson
Development and Communications Director
Communities In Schools of South King County
marquisj@cisskc.org
More About Communities In Schools
Communities In Schools® (CIS®) is a national organization that ensures every student—regardless of who they are, their ability, zip code, or socioeconomic background—has what they need to realize their potential in school and beyond. Working directly inside more than 3,000 schools across the country, we connect students to caring adults and community resources that help them see, confront, and overcome the barriers that stand between them and a brighter future. Together, we build a powerful change movement made up of peers, students, and alumni committed to building an equitable path to education for future generations.