Transformation comes through relationships, systems, and time. Here is what the work has produced so far.
Watch six real stories that showcase how our programs are strengthening students, supporting families, and creating lasting change across our community.
Assistant Superintendent
Student Services
Thomas and Lewis Family Resource Coordinator
CMS Family Resource Center Coordinator
Parrish Family Resource Center Coordinator
Food and Clothing Referral Program launched in September 2025. Monthly Food Bag distribution began in August 2025.
Referral system started in September 2025.
Referral system started in September 2025.
Distributed every month since August 2025.
Supporting schools through community partnerships.
Donated through the STL Food Bank.
$2,157 from Banterra Bank and $4,700 in outside donations.
Two years of consistent investment in coordination and literacy has produced partnership structures, family participation, and aligned practice that didn’t exist before.
Shared diagnostic tools and intervention practice across all 4 schools.
Single referral pathway from school to health, food, and housing partners.
Regular family councils now shape decisions at each campus.
Job-embedded coaching for teachers in literacy practice.
All gifts are processed securely through the Carbondale Education Foundation, a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. Your contribution is fully tax-deductible as allowed by law.
“Our family navigator helped us find stable housing. For the first time, my son comes to school ready to learn.”
“Having a reading specialist in the building means I can keep teaching while my struggling readers get the targeted help they need.”
“The community school coordinator is the difference between programs that exist on paper and programs that actually reach kids.”