A MESSAGE FROM THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
As we move into fall, I’m reminded of how every season brings new opportunities for connection – within our schools, our community, and our mission.
In this newsletter, we’re honoring Hispanic Heritage Month and the diverse cultures that make up our students. We’re also excited to share highlights from the Hopkins Elementary Ribbon Cutting, introduce our newest team members, and share ways to support CIS through Birdies for Charity.
Thanks for being part of our CIS community – let’s keep showing up, supporting students, and making good things happen!
With heartfelt gratitude,
Ashley Hall
Executive Director
HOPKINS ELEMENTARY RIBBON CUTTING
We are thrilled to welcome Hopkins Elementary School as the newest Communities In Schools of Chesterfield partner site!
On October 8, we celebrated with a Ribbon Cutting alongside Hopkins staff, elected officials, Chesterfield County Public Schools leadership, CIS board members, and community partners.
The event marked the official launch of CIS services at Hopkins, where Site Coordinator Heidi Dugent will work to remove barriers to learning and connect students with the resources they need to succeed.
This expansion brings CIS’s reach to 16 Chesterfield schools, surrounding more than 14,700 students with a community of support that empowers them to stay in school and achieve in life.
(L–R): Dr. Lisa High, Danika Ricks, Heidi Dugent, Ashley Hall, Dr. Lisa Hill, Delegate Debra Gardner, Dominique Chatters, and Dr. John Murray at the Hopkins Elementary ribbon cutting.
CELEBRATING HISPANIC HERITAGE MONTH
Each year, Hispanic Heritage Month gives us the opportunity to celebrate the cultures, traditions, and contributions of the Hispanic and Latino community – and this year, Falling Creek Middle School found a meaningful way to do just that.
Students and staff took part in “Present and Proud Week,” a celebration that blended cultural pride with the importance of showing up. Each day featured Spirit Week activities inspired by Hispanic themes, offering students the chance to learn, connect, and celebrate together.
More than just a week of fun, “Present and Proud Week” reminded students that presence matters – to their classmates, to their community, and to their future. Falling Creek came together to show that every student’s presence makes a difference and that being part of something greater starts by simply showing up.
BIRDIES FOR CHARITY GIVEAWAY! ENTER TO WIN!
🏌️♀️Fore our golf fans! Want a chance to enjoy a free 1-day pass at the 2025 Dominion Energy Charity Classic this October? ⛳
Make a donation to Communities In Schools of Chesterfield through Birdies for Charity and you’ll be entered to win a 1-day tournament pass! Plus, CIS receives a 10% bonus on charitable contributions!
The prize includes:
🎟️ 2 tournament tickets (good for one of the 3 event days)
🚗 1 parking pass
🏠 Access to the clubhouse
Don’t wait – donations must be made by Tuesday, October 14 using this link.
WELCOME TO THE TEAM!
Rachel Rapada
We’re thrilled to have Rachel join CIS of Chesterfield as the new Site Coordinator at Chalkey Elementary!
With more than a decade of experience in Title I schools, Rachel has served as a Reading Teacher, led family engagement initiatives, organized community drives, and even collaborated with CIS at Hening. Her passion for supporting the whole child makes her an incredible addition to our team.
Shelby Finkelstein
We’re excited to welcome Shelby to CIS of Chesterfield as the new Director of Development and Communications!
Shelby began her career in programming at organizations like the Boys & Girls Club and now brings over a decade of experience in fundraising, communications, and program strategy. She’s led development efforts at William & Mary, CultureWorks, and most recently served as a Senior Consultant supporting nonprofits nationwide.
With her passion for educational access, youth development, and building strong community partnerships, Shelby is the perfect fit to help us grow our impact here in Chesterfield.
CIS RESOURCE CORNER
Hispanic Heritage Month (September 15 – October 15) is a time to honor and uplift the histories, contributions, and vibrant cultures of Hispanic and Latino communities across the U.S. It’s an opportunity to deepen understanding, spark conversations, and celebrate voices that have long shaped our shared story.
Here are two excellent local and national resources to share:
Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month with a Good Book: Chesterfield County has curated a reading list spotlighting Hispanic and Latinx authors across age groups and genres. You’ll find selections for children, fiction and non-fiction for adults, and works that explore identity, resilience, and heritage.
Hispanic Heritage Month Resources – Smithsonian’s National Museum of the American Latino: This site offers a rich trove of teaching and learning tools: bilingual materials, historical essays, curated collections (like Latino Patriots in American Military History), and activity guides suited for families, educators, and lifelong learners alike.
