I am Abby Pownall, the Communities In Schools Site Coordinator at Bridge Street Middle School. I am a product of Ohio County Schools, so I am thrilled to be back. I served eight years in the US Army Reserves and earned my Bachelor of Science Degree at West Virginia University. I studied Child Development and Family Studies with an emphasis on Family and Youth. I have worked at local non-profits prior to my role with CIS, including CASA for Children, Inc. and Youth Service System Inc. I continue to serve as a local CASA volunteer which allows me to have a voice for children in foster care inside the courtroom. I have spent time working with Prevent Suicide WV and the American Foundation of Suicide Prevention.

My goal at BSMS is to connect with students to help them achieve their goals inside and outside of school. I hope to bridge gaps between our school and community resources to ensure our families are receiving what they need.