CIS scholar shows public speaking skills at SCA's 5th Grade Wax Museum

Gina, a bright and kind 5th grader at Smithson Craighead Academy, is known for looking out for her classmates and bringing positive energy to the classroom. This semester, she proudly earned 3rd place in the school’s 5th Grade Wax Museum for her presentation on actress and comedian Shirley Hemphill - complete with a well-crafted poster and essay, thanks to a community partner donation and one-on-one support from her #CISTN program manager, Mrs. Brown. 

But Gina’s success goes far beyond a single project. 

At the beginning of the year, housing and transportation challenges made it difficult for her to attend school regularly. With support from her program manager, Tiffany, and her mom, the three created a plan to turn things around - weekly attendance check-ins, monthly incentives, and a commitment to making school a priority. 

Since then, Gina’s attendance has risen from 61.98% to 88.24%. She’s become a leader in her class, showing up consistently and with confidence. Her mom even adjusted her work schedule and worked to find housing closer to school to support her progress. 

Tiffany said of Gina’s growth, “This is as much her success as mine. I’m just a supporting cast member.”