Sisterhood Spotlight

Natasha, in your role with Communities In Schools, how do you build the kind of trust that helps students open up and feel supported—especially those navigating challenges at home or in school?

In my role with Communities In Schools of Petersburg, building trust with students, particularly those facing challenges, is extremely important. Students need to know you’re there for them, not just as a service provider, but as a consistent presence in their lives. This involves regular check-ins, active listening, and genuine care for their well-being, not just their academic progress. I actively work to understand the unique challenges each student faces, whether it's a difficult home life, bullying, or mental health struggles. I like to connect students with other supportive adults in their lives. That could be parents, teachers, counselors, or community members creating a broader network of support. I empower students by encouraging them to take ownership of their challenges and develop strategies for coping. Focusing on the strengths and resilience each student possesses, acknowledging their struggles while celebrating their successes, big and small, helps them believe in their ability to overcome obstacles. Ultimately, using Communities in Schools mission of surrounding students with a community of support, empowering them to stay in school and achieve in life as a guide for my role.

You lead the Girls with Pearls program at Blandford Academy—a beautiful example of mentorship in action. What have you learned from the girls you serve, and what growth have you witnessed through the program?

Leading the Girls with Pearls program at Blandford 6th Grade Academy has been incredibly rewarding and I've learned so much from the girls. Outside of the obvious growth in confidence and academic performance, the greatest lessons have been about resilience, strength, and the importance of supportive communities. Seeing the girls in the program find their voice, express their needs, and advocate for themselves is a powerful testament to the program's impact. The girls have shown me how important it is to have mentors, peers, and role models who believe in them and encourage their growth. Girls with Pearls doesn’t just encourage success academically, it empowers young women to thrive in all aspects of their lives and demonstrates the profound impact that mentorship can have on a young person's journey.

CIS is deeply rooted in community partnerships. How have local leaders, mentors, or volunteers helped you sustain a holistic approach to student support in Petersburg?

Local leaders, mentors, and volunteers have played a very important role in sustaining a holistic approach to student support in Petersburg through CIS. Their contributions go beyond simply providing resources; they've actively encouraged community inside the school, fostering trust and creating a supportive network for our students. For example, mentors from the community, often themselves Petersburg residents, have offered invaluable guidance and shared their personal stories, helping students see themselves reflected in success. This personal connection is critical for building trust and motivation. Volunteers from local organizations have helped with tutoring programs, after-school activities, even just providing a listening ear. This diverse range of support from the community has allowed us to address students' needs comprehensively, going beyond academic support to include social, emotional, and practical needs.

For students or families who may be unsure where to turn, what CIS resources or programs do you recommend as a first step—and how can others in the community help you expand this life-changing work?

For students and families unsure where to turn, I recommend CIS's initial outreach programs focusing on basic needs, attendance, behavior, and course completion as a first step. This allows students and families to express their concerns and needs without judgment and helps determine the appropriate level of support. Food pantries, clothing drives, and access to affordable housing resources can be crucial initial steps for families facing significant challenges. To get started with this process I recommend contacting me via email (natasha@cisofpetersburg.org) or through the school.

Others in the community can help expand this life-changing work by offering resources and referrals. Community members can share information about local organizations that provide basic needs, academic support/opportunities, donations, or inquire about supporting or participating in programs at Blandford or other Petersburg schools by contacting me via email as well.

About Natasha Johnson

Natasha Johnson is a graduate of Virginia State University with a degree in Interdisciplinary Studies, began her career in youth development in 2013.  For the past seven years, she has been a vital member of the school team, providing essential support to students, staff, and families in the Petersburg community. Her valuable work directly contributes to the success and well-being of youth in the area.