Dear CISM Partners and Supporters,
On behalf of the Board of Directors, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to Teshanda Middleton for her outstanding leadership at Communities In Schools of Memphis (CISM) since July 2022. Teshanda has led with a vision that is both bold and compassionate, guiding CISM through transformative growth and deepening our impact across Memphis and beyond. Her unwavering commitment to our mission has resulted in measurable progress, from significant improvements in student attendance and graduation rates to the expansion of vital partnerships that support Memphis’ most vulnerable families. We are incredibly proud of the progress made under her leadership, and the strong foundation she has established will propel CISM forward for years to come.
As Teshanda transitions to the next chapter of her career, we are confident that the work of CISM will remain on track with Kelsey Kenniel, Chief Operations & Financial Officer, and Jessica Pontoo, Chief of Staff & Strategy, leading the organization together as Interim Co-CEOs, effective Monday, April 7th. Kelsey’s expertise in financial oversight and operational efficiency guarantees we have the resources and infrastructure to sustain and enhance our programs. Jessica has been integral in shaping and implementing our strategic initiatives and aligning our long-term goals with daily operations, ensuring our core programs have strong vision and support.
During this interim period, their focus will remain on continuity, ensuring the highest quality of services to the more than 11,000 students and families we serve, and building upon our past successes while positioning CISM for the future. Meanwhile, the Board is committed to a thoughtful, transparent, and strategic process in selecting the next permanent CEO of CISM. This decision is critical, not only for the students and families we serve but for the continued growth and success of our organization. A request for proposals will be publicized next week to hire a qualified search firm to assist in identifying a leader who will carry forward CISM’s decade-long legacy of impact and, more importantly, help drive us to even greater heights in fulfilling our mission.
We are energized and optimistic about the future of CISM and the collective impact we will continue to make in the lives of our students, families, and communities. As we move through this transition, we will certainly keep you informed. We encourage you to stay connected with us and look forward to sharing updates as the process evolves.
Warm regards,
Board of Directors
Communities In Schools of Memphis
