Rising Above the Waters: Communities In Schools of Eastern Pennsylvania's Support for Antietam School District

When catastrophic flooding struck Antietam School District, it left behind more than just damaged buildings—it disrupted the very fabric of the community. Antietam Middle-Senior High School, was left in ruins when flood waters of a nearby river rose up to engulf the high school. As the community continues to pivot and adapt following the disaster, CIS of Eastern PA (CIS) steps up where needed and provides the care that the students need.

Stony Creek Elementary School aka “Mod City”-- consists of modular classrooms that have been brought in to house the district’s elementary students while construction is underway to repair the damage to the high school.  Recognizing that many students are not only facing the physical loss of their school but also the emotional trauma of having their lives upended, CIS attempts to fill any gaps that are needed. 

In partnership with local food pantries like Helping Harvest, CIS coordinates“weekender bags” filled with nutritious snacks and easy-to-prepare meals, ensuring students have meals to make it through their weekend.

But the support doesn’t stop at food. CIS implements social-emotional learning (SEL) programs to help students manage their emotions and build resilience. Despite the challenges of working in cramped, temporary spaces, CIS staff remained committed to creating a sense of stability for the students.

CIS works closely with school counselors to identify vulnerable students, offering one-on-one sessions, group activities, and mindfulness exercises.  Families are connected to resources in the region through partnerships with Centro Hispano and Penn State Extension. The physical limitations of the trailers doesn’t deter CIS from fostering a strong sense of community and support.

The flood may have damaged buildings, but it didn’t break the spirit of the Antietam community. CIS is proud to stand by the Antietam community during this difficult time of transition.  It is not just about fixing what is broken; it’s about making the community stronger, more resilient, and more connected than before.