New Survey Shows the Benefits of Communities In Schools: Teachers Report High Job Satisfaction, Improved School Climate, and Positive Experiences
90 percent of teachers say CIS provides critical support in schools.
CONTACT: Whitney Faison, [email protected], 315-420-6049
A new nationwide survey from Communities In Schools® (CIS®), the nation’s leading provider of K-12 school-based integrated student supports, reveals that teachers overwhelmingly recognize CIS as a vital resource in improving school climate, student engagement and overall job satisfaction.
The Teacher Satisfaction and Perceptions of Communities In Schools Survey, conducted in 2024 with nearly 1,400 educators, examined their experiences in CIS-supported schools. Findings highlight the direct correlation between CIS’ work and improved teacher morale, student outcomes and parental engagement.
Key Findings:
- 83% of teachers agreed that CIS effectively connects students and families with essential resources.
- 77% reported that CIS improves school climate, creating a more supportive and engaging learning environment.
- 73% said CIS enhances students’ social skills, helping them navigate academic and personal challenges.
- 89% of teachers called CIS an important school resource, emphasizing its role in student and family engagement.
- 90% of teachers felt personally supported by CIS, citing access to critical resources, student engagement initiatives and morale-boosting efforts.
"When schools have CIS, teachers experience firsthand the benefits of additional support for students and families," said Kevin Leary, Ph.D., Senior Director of Research and Evaluation at CIS. "This data suggests that CIS not only enhances student success but also creates a more positive and sustainable teaching environment."
Overall, teachers reported positive perceptions of the work of CIS and saw the benefits of having CIS in their schools. Those who perceived CIS to be more impactful in improving student outcomes in their schools tended to report higher levels of job satisfaction, suggesting that the work of CIS may enhance teachers’ experiences within a school, which could then result in lower staff turnover, higher teacher retention and greater engagement and efficacy.
Full survey results can be found here.
About Communities In Schools
Communities In Schools® (CIS®) is a national organization that ensures every student, regardless of who they are, their ability, zip code or socioeconomic background, has what they need to realize their potential in school and beyond. Working directly inside more than 3,000 schools across the country, we connect students to caring adults and community resources that help them see, confront, and overcome the barriers that stand between them and a brighter future. Together, we build a powerful change movement made up of peers, students, and alumni committed to building an equitable path to education for future generations.
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