[dropcap]A[/dropcap] 2009 Lehman High graduate has been named as one of five honored by the national Communities in Schools (CIS) office for the 2017 All In For Students award.
Melissa Limon, who is a first-generation college student, was named as an award recipient.
The All In for Students awards, created in 2007, honors the dedication of CIS staff, educators, community partners and CIS alumni, who go over and above for students, empowering them to stay in school, graduate and go on to brighter futures. This year, one superintendent, one principal, one CIS coordinator and two CIS alums from the national network of 155 affiliates received this recognition.
Limon said in a statement she credits Communities In Schools for supporting her throughout high school and encouraging her to leave home to pursue her dreams.
“With CIS backing me I gained self-confidence that I could do things for myself,” she said. “I remember the college application process, and I didn’t know if I could do it or leave my family. CIS told me, ‘You need to go out and experience life.’”
Limon graduated from Stephen F. Austin State University and currently serves as a CIS AmeriCorps member at Webb Middle School in Austin where she mentors and tutors students full time.
When her AmeriCorps service ends, Limon plans to be involved with CIS. Limon is applying to graduate school to earn her social work degree.
“I would love to stay with CIS. It has always stayed close to my heart, and I love the work that happens with CIS.”
A new national report from CIS chronicles the barriers faced by 14.5 million children in the U.S. who are living in poverty.
The report also highlights success the organization has achieved over the last 40 years to keep students on a path toward graduation.
“Many students come to school with barriers to learning, whether it’s unmet mental health needs, lack of food, lack of adequate health care, or having to stay home to watch siblings while their parents are at work,” said Suki Steinhauser, Chief Executive Officer at Communities In Schools of Central Texas. “At CIS, we are on campus full time supporting children with the individualized services they need so that they have fewer distractions and can focus on being a student.”
Currently, CIS of Central Texas serves 63 schools with the support of community partners, AmeriCorps members, and more than 500 volunteers.
