In 2018 West Virginia the Department of Education implemented a program called, “Communities In Schools.” Communities In Schools is a program that helps ensure that every student, no matter what life circumstances they may be under, gets an equal opportunity to succeed. Communities In Schools entered Randolph County in 2022, which brought Elkins High School, Mark Rosencrance, Site Coordinator.
Mark’s role for Communities In Schools was designed for him to connect with students, families, and community resources. “When the student has a challenge or a need I foster a relationship with that student, and that resource in our community,” Rosencrane said.
Mark felt compelled to be a part of Communities In Schools because he liked the idea of being able to help growing young minds in his community.
“I was a typical high school kid with challenges, but I was impacted in a positive way by someone in a role like mine, that helped me out, and I just wanted that as a career myself.” Rosencrance said.
One of the resources Communities In Schools brought to Elkins was our therapy dog, Tora.
“The reason we have a therapy dog is because Governor Justice’s wife is a part of a program called “Friends With Paws,” and her goal is to have a therapy dog in all 55 counties, and Elkins High School was fortunate enough to be one of them.” Rosencrance said.
Mark creates a relationship with students when he senses they may be in a situation where they need advice, resources or just need someone to talk to. The students connect with him because they quickly learn that he is a trusted resource that can try to help them with academic or personal needs.
“The resources are there and you have the ability to handle challenges that you encounter if you have an awareness of your resources provided to you.” Rosencrance said.
