Communities In Schools
Volunteers of America North Louisiana, in partnership with Communities In Schools (CIS), surrounds students with a community of support, empowering them to stay in school and achieve in life. Our evidence-based approach, adapted to meet each community’s unique needs, is the key to our success.
Impact Is In Session
As prices continue to rise, back-to-school costs can be overwhelming. Through Operation Backpack®, Volunteers of America North Louisiana is working to ensure high school students at Booker T. Washington High School and Woodlawn High School return to the classroom with dignity, confidence, and the supplies they need to thrive. By providing school supplies to the families who need it most, we are creating brighter beginnings for the students we serve.
Connecting Schools to Our Community.
For the 2026-2027 school year, CIS Site Coordinators will work directly inside the following 10 Caddo Parish Schools:
- Creswell
- JS Clark
- Bethune Oak Park
- Atkins
- Westwood
- Broadmoor
- CMCTS
- Booker T. Washington High School
- C.E. Byrd High School
- Woodlawn High School
Our Impact in 2025-2026
Last school year, students faced many challenges at school, home, and beyond. Our goal is always simple: to put students at the center of all we do and let them know there is a caring adult in their life who cares about them.
- 4,824 students reached with supportive services, such as a clothing closet, hygiene items, or food backpacks.
- 850 students received intensive case management services. Of those:
- 84% met or made progress on at least one goal.
- 76% met or made progress in their attendance goal.
- 74% met or made progress in their behavior goal.
- 71% met or made progress in their academic goal.
- 95% stayed in school.
Support Students in School and Beyond
If you would like to learn more about our Communities In Schools program, please contact Lauren Jackson, Director of Communities In Schools. If you want to volunteer, please CLICK HERE to complete our online volunteer application.
2025-26 CIS Advisory Council
- Ben Israel
- Dr. Bernard Kimble
- Chief Judge Carl Stewart
- Ginny Lamb
- John Dean
- John Peak
- Kasie Mainier
- Keith Burton
- Kristi Gustavson
- Paul Pratt
- Dr. Ruby Scroggins
- Dr. Sheyenne Carper
- Verni Howard
Funding Partners
