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Dropout dividends
February 10, 2012
It's encouraging news that fewer students, only 3.43 percent, dropped out of North Carolina public schools in 2010-2011, the lowest dropout rate ever reported by the State Board of Education. Still, 15,342 high school students - an average of 83 students per day - dropped out of school last year. Every time this happens, the door to another bright future shuts. Communities In Schools of North Carolina (CISNC) and its 38 affiliates across the state work to surround students with the support and encouragement they need to stay in school and succeed. Reducing the dropout rate is our first priority, and we are so fortunate CISNC continues to provide thousands of students with much-needed tutoring and mentoring to help them learn and stay in school. North Carolina cannot take the focus off of K-12 education, especially as it pertains to our youth who drop out in the greatest numbers. The state's investment in proven, cost-effective program like Communities In Schools is crucial toward this end. It is imperative that we keep this positive momentum going so all students can graduate and succeed in college, career and life. --June Atkinson, State Superintendent, N.C. Department of Public Instruction; Member, Communities In Schools of N.C. Board of Directors, Raleigh -
CISNC Celebrates the 11th Annual National Mentoring Month in North Carolina
January 17, 2012
Communities In Schools of North Carolina (CISNC), the N.C. Commission on Volunteerism and Community Service and the N.C. Mentoring Partnership today announced January 2012 as the 11th anniversary of National Mentoring Month, a nationwide initiative to strengthen and recommit support for long-term mentoring. This announcement coincides with an official proclamation made today by Gov. Bev Perdue. “Being a mentor is an essential part to our students’ success in the classroom. We know students who have mentors have a better attitude about their education, a high attendance record and a greater chance of attending college”, said Gov. Perdue. “I encourage everyone to be a mentor because it ensures a better future for our students.”
