Trident United Way (TUW) is thrilled to announce the launch of a groundbreaking initiative designed to tackle the challenges associated with unplanned school mobility in two Berkeley County schools: Cainhoy Elementary School and Cross High School.
Unplanned school mobility—when a student or group of students must change schools unexpectedly—severely impacts both social-emotional development and academic success. Research shows that frequent school changes are linked to lower test scores, higher dropout rates and increased mental health concerns, including depression and anxiety. These challenges are only compounded with each subsequent transition and, unfortunately, unplanned school mobility is often unavoidable, particularly in areas where population shifts cause schools to merge or close altogether.
In an effort to mitigate these effects, TUW is activating grant funding awarded by the Siemer Institute and partnering locally with Communities In Schools of South Carolina (CIS) and Berkeley County School District (BCSD), and SC Works for job training services.
“Every student deserves the opportunity to succeed, regardless of their circumstances,” said President and CEO of Communities in Schools of South Carolina Jamie Cooper. “By focusing on the needs of those experiencing frequent school changes, we’re not only enhancing their educational outcomes but also providing essential support to their families. This program represents a holistic approach to addressing the root causes of academic and emotional instability.”
ALICE® Data Highlights Vulnerability in Cainhoy and Cross
According to the latest ALICE (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed) report, many households with school-age children in the Cainhoy and Cross communities live at or below the ALICE® Threshold- the household income level at which families are able to afford basic necessities including housing, childcare, food and healthcare. This economic instability further exacerbates the negative effects of unplanned school mobility, highlighting the urgent need for targeted support in these areas. A recent report from United for ALICE revealed that the number of children in financially insecure households in South Carolina is often undercounted. Using 2022 Census data, they found that 56% of children in northeastern Berkeley County live in families facing financial hardship.
“Addressing the challenges of unplanned school mobility is not just about supporting students; it's about strengthening entire communities and the families within them,” said Trident United Way Chief Impact Officer Natasha Chatman. “This initiative is a critical step towards ensuring that every child in the Tri-County has the stability and resources they need to thrive academically and emotionally. As part of our commitment to a two-generation approach, we are focused on supporting families through our partnerships with Berkeley County School District, Communities In Schools and the Siemer Institute. Together, we are making a meaningful difference in our community.”
In partnership with BCSD, CIS will concentrate on educational assistance, while TUW’s Family Navigators—comprising AmeriCorps members and staff—will offer crucial household support, including financial assistance, eviction prevention, budget coaching and job training. These services aim to reduce disruptions caused by unplanned school mobility and support family stability as they navigate these challenging situations.
“We believe that every child’s potential should not be limited by their economic circumstances or the instability of their educational environment,” said National Program Director at the Siemer Institute Dayna McCrary. “The Siemer Institute is honored to support this initiative, which will provide crucial resources to mitigate the impact of unplanned school transitions and support the long-term success of students and their families.”
“We are excited to partner with Trident United Way, as this collaboration is vital for supporting families and communities in Cainhoy and Cross,” said BCSD Superintendent Dr. Anthony Dixon. “We know that a holistic approach to education is essential for enhancing student outcomes. This resource will empower our students and families, providing the support they need to succeed.”
"Unplanned school mobility presents a profound challenge for our students, affecting both their academic progress and their overall well-being,” said BCSD Chief Officer of Inclusive Excellence and Student Support Dr. Kylon Middleton. “By addressing these disruptions with targeted support, we’re not only investing in our students but in the resilience and vitality of our entire community. This initiative reflects our unwavering commitment to fostering stability and success for every student and family in Berkeley County.”
***
About Trident United Way
For nearly 80 years Trident United Way has been a catalyst for measurable community transformation in education, financial stability and health in Berkeley, Charleston and Dorchester Counties.
Trident United Way has a proud history of developing community-wide initiatives, including partnering with dozens of local nonprofit organizations, leading the creation of our community’s 211 Information and Referral Helpline and establishing the Berkeley and Dorchester County Resource Connection Centers.
About the Siemer Institute
The Siemer Institute supports families with children from birth through 12th grade who are at risk of unplanned moves/evictions. To accomplish this, the Siemer Institute collaborates with community-based funding partners and service providers across the nation, creating a collective impact network of successful local initiatives. By providing multi-year grants—including challenge grants, advocacy grants and expansion grants—and other resources, the Siemer Institute empowers partners to implement community-appropriate solutions and build lasting, effective programs. Today, the Siemer Institute has 74 funded partners in 39 states with over 150 service providers across the country. For more information, please visit SiemerInstitute.org.
About Communities In Schools of South Carolina (CIS)
The CIS model of Integrated Student Communities In Schools® (CIS®) is a national organization that ensures every student, regardless of who they are, their ability, zip code or socioeconomic background, has what they need to realize their potential in school and beyond. Working directly inside more than 3,000 schools across the country, CIS connects students to caring adults and community resources that help them see, confront and overcome the barriers that stand between them and a brighter future. Together, we build a powerful change movement made up of peers, students and alumni committed to building an equitable path to education for future generations. For more information, visit https://cisofsc.org/