The CIS Model
Many students and their families have a hard time accessing and navigating the maze of public and private services. There may be ample resources in a community, but without someone on the ground who is able to connect these resources with the schools and students that need them most. Through a school-based Program Manager, we bring community resources into schools to empower success for all students by removing barriers, keeping kids on the path to graduation, and leveraging evidence, relationships and local resources to drive results.
Integrated Student Supports
CIS’ Integrated Student Supports Model is a school-based approach to develop academic success by tackling academic and non-academic barriers. CIS serves students of all ages from K-12. These supports are provided by our CIS Program Managers who assess a student’s needs, and then provide direct services and/or make referrals to community partners to ensure a student has everything they need to succeed in and out of the classroom.
Wooten CIS Program Manager
Ms. Mari Gamez, our Communities In Schools Program Manager, works alongside students and families to remove barriers and help every child succeed in and beyond the classroom. Through individual check-ins, case management, referrals, and connections to community resources, Ms. Gamez supports academic progress, social-emotional well-being, attendance, and family needs.
Communities In Schools brings trusted support directly onto our campus so families do not have to navigate complex systems alone. Mari helps identify each student’s strengths and needs, connects families with helpful services, and provides encouragement and ongoing support to keep students engaged, confident, and on the path toward long-term success.
Contact Mari Gamez
Email: mari.gamez@austinisd.org or mgamez@ciscentraltexas.org
Phone: (972) 656-9982
Learn more: Communities In Schools of Central Texas
Ms. Gamez is dedicated to ensuring every student has the support they need to thrive. By connecting families with resources, building meaningful relationships, and removing barriers to learning, she helps create a school where every child feels seen, supported, and ready to succeed.