(AUSTIN)- U.S. Congressman Michael McCaul visited Communities in Schools this morning to announce $195,000 of federal funding awarded to the dropout prevention program. Community in Schools (CIS) is the largest dropout prevention organization in the United States. For 30 years, CIS has remained focused on helping kids stay in school.

High Schools located in Central Texas, like other urban schools across the United States, are not meeting the needs of their students’ because large numbers of them do not graduate. High school students today struggle with what can seem like insurmountable odds, teen pregnancy, mental health issues, poverty, incarcerated parents, and gang involvement are a few. The mission of CIS is to help keep kids stay in school and prepare for life.

"In our society finishing high school and attaining a college degree is more important than ever. This program will increase the number of productive citizens who will positively contribute to the communities around them," stated Congressman McCaul.

To identify and address the unmet needs of children and families, CIS begins by building relationships with the students and their families. Appropriate services are then provided including individual and group counseling, pairing students with a mentor, academic support, enriching field trips, and preparation for work and college.

Michael McCaul is currently serving his second term representing Texas' 10th District in the United States Congress. The 10th Congressional District of Texas stretches across 8 counties from Austin to the Houston suburbs, and includes Austin, Bastrop, Burleson, Harris, Lee, Travis, Washington and Waller Counties.