Communities In Schools® (CIS®) has always been grounded in values that center human connection, opportunity, and belonging. For nearly 50 years, our work has been guided by the Five Basics—a foundational set of principles developed by Bill Milliken that reflect what every young person needs and deserves to thrive: a caring adult, a safe place, a healthy start, a marketable skill, and a chance to give back.
These principles are brought to life across four key systems—schools, families, communities, and organizations—ensuring that every student is surrounded by the relationships, environments, and opportunities they need to thrive.
Watch CIS Founder Bill Milliken talk about the origin of the five basic principles.
Together with our mission and integrated student supports model, the Five Basic Principles guide our work, keep students at the center, and define our collective purpose—
unlocking potential and creating pathways to a brighter future.
A caring adult is essential for student success. CIS builds systems of support led by site coordinators, who connect students with trusted adults across schools, families, and communities. The goal is to make caring relationships consistent and accessible for every student.
A safe place goes beyond physical security to include emotional, cultural and psychological safety. CIS fosters this through promoting trauma-informed and restorative practices, uplifing student voices, and creating inclusive environments for families. The goal is for everyone to feel respected, valued, and able to thrive.
A healthy start ensures students’ physical, emotional, and basic needs are met so they can learn and thrive. CIS connects students to food, healthcare, and other essential resources, addresses barriers that might block their well-being, and provides support that helps them build long-term resilience and confidence.
A marketable skill combines abilities, confidence, and connections for future success. CIS supports this by linking education to real-world opportunities through internships, mentoring, and career exploration. The goal is to equip students with skills and access to thrive in the workforce and beyond.
A chance to give back empowers students to lead, serve, and shape their schools and communities. CIS provides opportunities for student leadership, peer mentoring, and service projects, ensuring they contribute meaningfully while developing skills, confidence, and a sense of ownership.
See how Communities In Schools brings the Five Basic Principles to life.
As a middle school student, Zoe was very quiet and stayed to herself. Like many teenagers, self-esteem and anxiety are normal emotions on a daily basis. But for Zoe, the thought of going to school felt overwhelming.
Read more of A Boost of Confidence Helped Zoe Soar
CIS of Pennsylvania site coordinator Jeffrey Suarez identified the need for post-graduation planning programs and organized a career day that was a hit. Learn about the transformative power of community engagement and support programs in shaping student outcomes.
Read more of Innovative Engagement: The Story of Lebanon High's Career Day Success
In November, Marco and Esteban were invited to attend CIS Nevada's annual fundraiser as guests and featured speakers. During the event, Esteban shared a beautiful speech about his experience in CIS, and as a CIS alum. CIS of Nevada also showcased their involvement in the “Being Present Matters” campaign and roles as the faces of the national PSA promotion.
Read more of Esteban: A Full Circle Moment
Communities In Schools of Pennsylvania (CISPA) activated an innovative partnership with York College eight years ago that targets younger students, connecting them with mentors and helping them gain exposure to the college experience.
Read more of CIS of Pennsylvania and York College Team Up to Create College Pathways
“I never thought I’d make it to graduation," Andrea said. "School just wasn’t for me. But Mr. Walker changed everything."
Read more of Andrea's Connection Leads to TurnaroundSign up to receive our newsletter to stay up-to-date on the latest happenings at CIS National and across our network.
