Small Act of Advocacy Leads Fifth Grader to Her ‘Mentor for Life’
When Jaya Harris’ backpack broke in the middle of the school day, Ms. Jen came to the rescue so Jaya could bring her books home that day. Since that first interaction two years ago between Jaya and Ms. Jen, the Communities in Schools of New Mexico (CISNM) Student Success Facilitator at her elementary school, the two have built a strong relationship. And Jaya’s mom, Shelleta, is sure that her daughter has gained a mentor for life.
Ms. Jen also provides math homework help to Jaya, now in fifth grade. “Jaya does better in math now, and, most importantly, she loves going to school. Getting to see Ms. Jen at school makes it even better,” Shelleta says.
Jaya and Student Success Facilitator Ms. Jen have built a strong relationship over the years, contributing to Jaya’s academic achievement.
CISNM has a full-time presence in 12 schools in the Santa Fe, New Mexico region and leads a wide range of initiatives, from academic support to an on-site clothing closet and food pantry, to rental and utility assistance and transportation. CISNM creates a school-wide support plan for students and families to help ensure all of their needs are met, in turn leading to better outcomes in school — and later in life.
Having served on the CISNM Board of Directors for six years, Dion Silva, Enterprise Bank & Trust Market President in Santa Fe, is passionate about CISNM’s “whole-child” approach to building a culture of support.
“By helping not only the student but also the family, we are improving that child’s chances of success and strengthening our community,” Dion says. “Enterprise sees the value in this, and we have proudly supported the organization since its inception in New Mexico and as it continues to grow.”
In the last academic year, CISNM saw a 100% graduation rate for case-managed students across its schools, demonstrating the success of the program’s model. “Communities in Schools is unique because the facilitators are embedded in the school community and fill a role that is distinct from that of the teacher or counselor,” says Michelle Katz, CISNM’s Executive Director. “We also coordinate with other nonprofit partners to make it easy for them to bring their programs to the school.”
A recent $150,000 matching donation grant from Enterprise enabled CISNM to expand to another school. “Multiyear support from partners like Enterprise allow us to reach more students, be more productive and make a greater impact,” Michelle explains.
Jaya’s mom, Shelleta, says that CISNM is a great tool for families in need and believes that the mentorship aspect of the program is what sets it apart. “A positive impact on young people lasts throughout their lives. I’m so grateful my daughter has someone like Ms. Jen who is helping kids think about their future.”
