Who are we?

Children First/Communities In Schools is a nationwide non-profit serving students and families. We address challenges that stand in the way of academic achievement in and out of school.  We partner directly with Buncombe County Schools and Oakley Elementary to offer a wide range of support for students not born to privilege.

Our Mission and Vision

Our mission is to empower children and their families to reach their full potential through advocacy, education, and service. Children First/Communities In Schools surrounds students with a community of support to help them achieve in school and life. Our vision is a community where children are highly valued and provided with the maximum opportunity to reach their full potential.

Meet our Oakley Student Support Specialist

Children First/Communities in Schools has eight Student Support Specialists located permanently at schools in Buncombe County, including Oakley Elementary. Ms. Perry is the Student Support Specialist serving Oakley.  Our Student Support Specialist is here Monday-Thursday full-time to support students through direct services like tutoring, after school programs, classroom intervention, social emotional guidance, mentoring and parent support. If you or your student need support, you can reach out directly to Ms. Perry at 828-620-9748 or perryh@childrenfirstbc.org

Resource Center

Children First/Communities In Schools has a resource center offering free services to anyone in need including a food pantry, referrals, emergency financial assistance, SNAP/other applications, parent workshops, summer camps and childcare support. The Family Resource Center is located at 564 N. Louisiana Ave. Monday-Thursday 9am till 12pm. You can also reach the Family Resource Center at 828-259-9717 or visit our website at www.childrenfirstcisbc.org/