A Boost of Confidence Helped Zoe Soar

The obstacles to being present in school can look different for every student. There are tangible things we can identify such as lack of transportation or having to pick up an extra shift to support the family income. But there are other obstacles that are harder to see that sometimes stand in the way of students walking through the doors.  

As a middle school student, Zoe was very quiet and stayed to herself. Like many teenagers, self-esteem and anxiety are normal emotions on a daily basis. But for Zoe, the thought of going to school felt overwhelming.  

“I was kind of lonely and didn’t really like school. I would stay at home and would cry and tell my mom that I didn’t want to go to school,” Zoe explained. “I feel like I was a very quiet person, but I used to not talk to anybody at all, just kind of stayed to myself.”  

In the fall of 2023 Zoe was connected to a new site coordinator at her school, Deanna Fox. 

Deanna decided to become a site coordinator because at the time she was transitioning out of the classroom as a teacher. She still wanted to work with students, and a position became available at Communities In Schools® (CIS®) of Chatham County.  

"It felt like divine timing. Working where I’m from and growing up in similar experiences, pushed me to continue going above and beyond for students. It’s not always easy days, but our students have someone they can look to for support, guidance, trust. I know I can be whoever my student needs in that moment," said Deanna  

In the beginning, Zoe was hesitant to open up to Deanna. But with patience and support, Zoe and Deanna formed a strong bond. Deanna became a safe person Zoe could go to when she was struggling with anxiety or anger.  

Every time I’m upset, I know I can email her and see her if I need to. Ms. Fox was always there, she tells the truth, and she is very thorough. You might not like the answer she gives you but it's the one you need to hear. She really helped me find coping strategies to keep going like listening to music or breathing exercises.

Zoe, CIS Student  

Zoe graduated from middle school and started her first year of high school this school year emerging confident and ready for her future. She would tell the younger version of herself “It’s going to be OK.”  

As a site coordinator and former educator, Deanna understands how important the presence of a safe adult is, how valuable site coordinators are to the school climate and the role they play in making connections with students and families.  Any student who walks by her door is welcome. She views herself as a resource for all students and their unique needs. 

I’ve seen the value and the greatness that CIS brings to schools, being from the area I now work in, I’m now afforded the opportunity to be a part of something like this. Being able to bring something else to students that will not only support them but uplift them has really given me a different perspective.

Deanna Fox, CIS of Chatham County Site Coordinator 

This school year, Deanna is eager to work closely with her school to create a supportive learning environment that encourages students to be present and feel welcomed each day. By collaborating with teachers and staff, she aims to empower students to reach the goals they've set with CIS or independently. 

“Being a part of this campaign to address chronic absenteeism was one of the most impactful moments of my professional career thus far,” Deanna said. “I was able to meet new site coordinators, get a glimpse into the work that they are doing and be a part of something not only big for CIS but in my opinion, big for education.” 

Learn more about CIS of Chatham County.

Get Involved! Find your local CIS organization.