LISA Takes a Bold Step Forward with Expansion to Verde Valley Schools

The board of directors of the Cornville-based nonprofit Low-Income Student Aid (LISA) voted unanimously on February 3 to expand services to all schools in the Cottonwood-Oak Creek and Clarkdale-Jerome School Districts.

Superintendent of Clarkdale-Jerome School, Matt Schumacher, Ph.D., emphasized the importance of supporting students holistically to ensure academic success. “By partnering with LISA, we can address the diverse needs of our students and families, which is critical given the budgetary constraints of public education in Arizona,” he noted.

This expansion follows LISA’s previous operations in several schools, including Cottonwood Community School, Dr. Daniel Bright School, and various campuses in the Sedona-Oak Creek School District.

COCSD Superintendent Jessica Vocca highlighted LISA’s significant impact in the community. “LISA has been transformative for families and schools alike,” she stated. The organization’s expansion, set for the 2025-26 school year, promises to enhance support for even more families.

Eric Wyles, cofounder of LISA, explained that broadening their service area will simplify marketing efforts. “By serving four full districts instead of individual schools, we can streamline our outreach,” he said, noting that costs range from $20,000 to $25,000 per campus annually.

The full expansion is anticipated to conclude by July 1, with LISA already active at Sedona Red Rock High School since January 1, assisting students in acquiring necessary resources such as athletic shoes.

In the last quarter of 2024 alone, LISA addressed over 80 aid requests, aiding with various supplies and expenses for school events and extracurricular activities. Superintendent Tom Swaninger, Ph.D., praised LISA’s role during financial hardships faced by families. “The assistance provided by LISA acts as a crucial support system in temporary crises,” he remarked.

At SRRHS, a dedicated campus aid committee, including members Jennifer Constantineau, Lara Cordova, and Marilyn Largen, works alongside Principal Heather Isom to facilitate aid distribution.

During a recent school board meeting, Wyles announced that LISA aims to secure additional funding, including a grant from Arizona Complete Health, intended to support low-income families with preschool tuition costs. He later confirmed the successful acquisition of an $8,000 grant, which has already contributed $3,500 to assist West Sedona School families. Parents can apply for this financial aid through LISA’s website.

Wyles expressed gratitude for community support, emphasizing that LISA is dedicated to fostering student success through collaborative efforts. “We appreciate the ongoing commitment from our community, as it is essential for helping students thrive,” he concluded.