WHEREAS, Communities In Schools of Virginia was founded in 1999 as part of the national Communities In Schools network, which is currently serving 1.8 million students in 3,270 schools across 27 states; and

WHEREAS, since its establishment in the Commonwealth, the Communities In Schools of Virginia network has partnered with school divisions to maximize the potential of students by advancing equitable and innovative learning; and

WHEREAS, the Communities In Schools model provides integrated student supports which are critical to mitigating barriers and keeping vulnerable students in school while also helping them thrive; and

WHEREAS, a core guiding principal of Communities In Schools of Virginia is the belief that all students, regardless of their background, identity, or circumstances, deserve to be empowered to achieve their fullest potential in school and beyond; and

WHEREAS, after 25 years of demonstrated success, the Communities In Schools of Virginia affiliate network is proud to now partner with 25 school districts and 163 schools, reaching more than 113,000 students; and

WHEREAS, Communities In Schools of Virginia places a special emphasis on building partnerships with local school districts serving the most vulnerable communities in Northern Virginia, Hampton Roads, Greater Richmond, Petersburg, Southwest Virginia, and Southside Virginia; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED by the House of Delegates, That Communities In Schools of Virginia hereby be commended for its commitment to advancing the Virginia Community School Framework's pursuit of equity by creating opportunities, engaging communities, providing wraparound supports, and empowering students to achieve their fullest potential in school and beyond; and, be it

RESOLVED FURTHER, That the Clerk of the House of Delegates prepare a copy of this resolution for presentation to Communities In Schools of Virginia as an expression of the House of Delegates' admiration for its vital mission and best wishes for continued success.