A MESSAGE FROM THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
As we close out another school year, I want to take a moment to celebrate the growth, resilience, and accomplishments of students across Chesterfield County. This season is filled with pride as we recognize graduates and all students who have worked hard to reach this milestone, often while overcoming real challenges along the way.
Their success reflects not only their determination, but also the support of caring educators, families, Site Coordinators, and community partners who continue to show up for them every day.
Summer brings a chance to rest and reset, but also to stay connected. Across our community, families can find free and low-cost opportunities through local parks, libraries, and summer programs that keep young people learning, active, and engaged.
As we look ahead, we’re already preparing for a strong start to the new school year and working alongside partners to ensure students have what they need to begin with confidence.
Thank you for being part of this work and for investing in the success of students across Chesterfield County.
With heartfelt gratitude,
Ashley Hall
Executive Director
CELEBRATING THE CLASS OF 2026!
Every graduate has a story.
Some students crossed the stage this spring after overcoming challenges that could have easily derailed their path to graduation. Others faced obstacles outside the classroom that made it difficult to stay focused on school. What they all had in common was determination—and a network of support that helped them keep moving forward.
Throughout the year, CIS-C Site Coordinators walked alongside students, helping them navigate barriers, celebrate successes, and stay focused on their goals. Whether connecting students to resources, offering encouragement during difficult moments, or simply being a consistent presence, these relationships helped make graduation possible.
As we celebrate the Class of 2026, we’re reminded that student success doesn’t happen alone. It happens when young people have caring adults in their corner and a community that believes in their potential.
Congratulations to all of our graduates. We can’t wait to see where their journeys take them next.
EXPLORE OUR NEW WEBSITE!
We’re excited to share the launch of our newly redesigned website!
Created with our students, supporters, volunteers, and community partners in mind, the new site makes it easier than ever to learn about our mission, explore student success stories, find ways to get involved, and stay connected to the work happening in schools across Chesterfield County.
Whether you’re looking to volunteer, make a donation, attend an event, or simply learn more about how Communities In Schools of Chesterfield is helping students succeed, you’ll find a more user-friendly experience and updated resources throughout the site.
We invite you to take a look and discover all the ways you can help surround students with a community of support.
SUMMER FUN STARTS HERE!
Before heading home for summer break, 1,000 students received Summer Activity Kits filled with art supplies, games to encourage movement and play, and educational resources to help them stay engaged during the months ahead. The kits also included information about free and low-cost summer activities available throughout Chesterfield and the surrounding community.
Every student deserves a summer filled with fun, exploration, and opportunity!
BACK-TO-SCHOOL SUPPLY DRIVES
It’s never too early to prepare for a successful school year.
CIS-C is collecting school supplies to help ensure students have the tools they need to start the school year ready to learn. From backpacks and notebooks to pencils, folders, and classroom essentials, these items help remove barriers and set students up for success from day one.
Donations can be dropped off at the CIS-C office throughout the summer:
1808 Coyote Drive, Suite 100
Chester, VA 23836
Every donation helps ensure local students walk into the classroom confident, prepared, and ready to learn.
Questions? Contact Wendy Lively at [email protected].
ENJOY BREAKFAST. SUPPORT STUDENTS!
We’re excited to share that Communities In Schools of Chesterfield has been selected as the June beneficiary of the Smiles for Good campaign at participating Eggs Up Grill locations.
Throughout the month of June, guests can simply round up their purchase at checkout, turning spare change into meaningful support for local students. Every donation helps us provide the caring relationships, academic support, and essential resources students need to stay in school and achieve in life.
Visit one of these participating locations through June 30, 2026:
• 12050 Southshore Pointe Dr., Ste B-100, Midlothian
• 2003 W. Huguenot Rd., Richmond
• 2238 John Rolfe Pkwy., Richmond
Whether you’re grabbing breakfast with family or meeting friends for brunch, your meal can help create brighter futures for students across Chesterfield County. Thank you to Eggs Up Grill and everyone who chooses to round up and invest in the success of local students.
CIS-C RESOURCE CORNER
Summer is here, and there are plenty of ways for families to stay active, engaged, and connected across Chesterfield County and the Greater Richmond area. From local parks and splash pads to free library programs, outdoor concerts, and community movie nights, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Click on the images below to see what’s going on for students of all ages to enjoy!