Student Success Stories

Meet Kurt Kurt came to the JNCG program as a senior. Before joining the program, he was very reserved and attended a different school because he benefitted from a smaller learning environment. He eventually joined the yearbook staff as a photographer which is where his JNCG Specialist Dustin really began to see him blossom.  As the school year began, Kurt attended school each day still wearing his mask, and draping his hair across his face as he was very shy. During the fall spirit week, Kurt made a deal with a school counselor to switch roles, pull his hair back,…

Meet Oriyana When Oriyona was referred to CIS six years ago, she was struggling to stay on track with her grades, had difficulty staying focused, and kept to herself. She had trouble building social relationships and lacked the confidence to talk to people around her. Oriyona’s CIS circle of support has included multiple Student Support Specialists over the years, and she credits them with helping her get back on track academically, build social relationships, and gain some clarity about her future. “Since I became a part of CIS I have grown academically, socially, and mentally,” Oriyona said. “CIS has given…

Although Josiah enrolled in CIS in middle school, he said he did not begin taking full advantage of the program until 10th grade. By that time, CIS had provided Josiah with the opportunity to visit a museum for the first time, and his first college tour was a CIS-led trip where they toured Edgecombe Community College.

Lucas, now a 6th grader, always held great potential. CISNC Student Support Specialist Ashley Cephas recognized that potential and provided him the tailored support he needed to grow his confidence and improve his grades.

With regular check-ins from his CIS Support Specialist, Iris Caldwell, Kevon is learning to process his emotions and communicate constructively with teachers & peers!