Our Why

At Manor High School, 10th-grader Sarah faced a significant barrier to academic success due to her strained relationship with one of her teachers. The teacher’s communication style reminded Sarah of the harsh tones she regularly experienced at home, which triggered emotional responses and led to combative conversations. This created a challenging classroom environment and affected her academic performance.

The CISofHR Site Coordinator stepped in to create a safe space for Sarah to express her concerns. Through open dialogue, the coordinator helped Sarah identify the connection between the teacher’s tone and her home life experiences. Together, they worked on coping skills to handle these triggers. The Site Coordinator also mediated discussions between Sarah and the teacher, helping to rebuild trust and communication.

As a result, Sarah’s relationship with her teacher improved, and she felt more comfortable in the classroom. Her grades in that class also increased, showing the power of personalized support and conflict mediation in overcoming challenges.

Courtney, a 10th-grader at Booker T. Washington High School, was a hardworking student with big dreams. However, unreliable transportation often stood in the way of her reaching her goals. Without a steady way to get to her job at a local virtual gaming arcade and bowling alley, Courtney struggled to maintain her work schedule.

Seeing her challenge, Mr. Hill, the CISofHR Site Coordinator, introduced the Hampton Roads Transit (HRT) Freedom Pass to the school. The pass provided free public transportation, giving Courtney the freedom to travel to work independently.

With the Freedom Pass, Courtney’s life transformed. She could take extra shifts at work, save more money, and even participate in after-school activities. Her confidence grew, and she became a role model for her peers. Now, thriving academically and professionally, Courtney is on track to achieve her dream of attending college and pursuing a career in business management.

When Mark, a 5th grader at Victory Elementary, transferred from Newport News, he struggled to adjust to his new environment. Early behavioral issues, especially on the school bus, raised concerns among staff. However, building a strong relationship with Mark quickly became the key to his success.

The CISofHR Site Coordinator, along with the school’s security guard, had a conversation with Mark about behavior expectations and offered reassurance that he had support at his new school. Mark began checking in regularly, building a sense of belonging and trust. The Site Coordinator also learned about challenges Mark was facing at home, which helped provide better emotional support.

As the school year progressed, Mark’s behavior improved, and he began to thrive academically. A heartwarming moment occurred during a morning check-in when Mark, who usually gave high-fives, surprised the coordinator with a hug, symbolizing the trust they had built. Mark’s story is a reminder of how positive relationships can be the foundation for a student’s success, both in and out of the classroom.