Being Present Matters: Andrea's Connection Leads to Turnaround

In the latest national public service campaign, "Being Present Matters," Communities In Schools® (CIS®) highlights the importance of strong student support systems and the life-changing connection between Andrea Hill, a 12th-grade student at Manassas High School, and her Student Support Specialist, Deontae Walker. 

Andrea is looking forward to graduating in 2025 after overcoming significant personal challenges, including being expelled from school for fighting. 

“I never thought I’d make it to graduation," Andrea said. "School just wasn’t for me. But Mr. Walker changed everything." 

After being referred to Deontae following an expulsion last year, Andrea was reluctant to trust him. Initially, she only stopped by his office for snacks. But as the weeks passed, she slowly began to open up. 

He became like family to me—an uncle or big brother I never had. I struggle with trust, but Mr. Walker’s always been there.” 

-Andrea, CIS Student

The bond Andrea formed with Deontae became a lifeline. After experiencing a panic attack in class, triggered by stress from her home life, Deontae was the only one who could calm her down. His consistent presence and unwavering support helped Andrea navigate her emotional struggles and stay focused on her future. 

Andrea’s transformation is remarkable. Before she entered Deontae’s caseload in December 2023, she was chronically absent, attending school only twice a week. But now, she hasn't missed a single day since. More than that, she’s ditched the negative influences that used to lead her astray and is passing all her classes—something she hadn’t thought possible just months ago. 

“Skipping school, being late all the time, it wasn’t worth it,” Andrea said. “Mr. Walker helped me see that.” 

Andrea's mom, who has witnessed her daughter's transformation firsthand, deeply appreciates the support Deontae has provided. Thanks to his guidance, Andrea is on track to graduate on time, despite missing an entire year of school due to the COVID-19 pandemic. 

In June, Andrea and her mom were invited to Dallas as part of CIS National’s marketing campaign, a trip that Andrea says was unforgettable. She loved meeting the CIS staff, enjoyed the hotel pool, and even snuck out with her mom to explore the city and grab McDonald’s. 

Andrea’s story is a testament to the power of showing up—not just for school but for herself. With the guidance of Deontae and the support of CIS, she’s not only focused on graduation but also on a brighter future beyond it. 

“None of this would’ve been possible without Mr. Walker,” Andrea said. “He showed me that I’m capable of so much more.”