Say Rah is a senior in Cumberland County. She was referred to Communities In Schools (CIS) because she was behind academically. In a new state and a new school, Say Rah needed the support of a caring adult. She was hesitant to engage but met Student Support Specialist Mr. Nobles and knew this program was what she needed to get back on track.

“I moved to Fayetteville and needed to enroll in school,” said Say Rah. “It was recommend that I try to enroll in Alger B. Wilkins, so, I went there and met Mr. Nobles. “He talked to me on the 1st day and ever since he has always motivated me.”

Mr. Nobles has helped Say Rah, and many others who have come through his classroom, working with them to develop the skills needed to be successful. Mr. Nobles came up with a specialized plan to help Say Rah enroll in the classes she was missing so she could complete her required credits. She also applied the tools he had given her in her home life. She began going to bed earlier and focusing on her schoolwork. She always dreamed of being a better student, and now she was one. “I don’t want to be behind anymore,” Say Rah said.  By the end of the first semester, she was caught up in all of her classes and had enough credits to officially classify as a senior, a goal she was working to accomplish.

Say Rah is set to graduate in June 2025, a goal she had not envisioned reaching. “I had to keep going. I could not give up on myself.” The presence of a caring adult can make all the difference. Being Present Matters. In schools, and in life.  Communities In Schools provided support to Say Rah, helping her envision a positive future. We are excited to cheer her on as she walks across the graduation stage this spring.