Communities In Schools and Whataburger Join Forces for Back-to-School Tour Expansion

Communities In Schools and Whataburger® Expand Back-to-School Initiative

Communities In Schools (CIS) and Whataburger are once again collaborating to launch their 'Ready, Set, Learn!' Back-to-School Tour, marking an exciting expansion to seven cities this year. This initiative not only celebrates what Whataburger calls its 76 years of service to communities but also aims to provide essential resources to students and first-generation college freshmen preparing for a successful school year.

The 2026 tour has almost doubled from the previous year’s initiative, which only reached four locations. This year, the aim is to support over 100 students at each stop, providing them with school supplies, celebratory events, and essential resources leading to their educational success. The tour is set to kick off on August 15 in Memphis, Tennessee, before making stops in Charlotte, North Carolina; Houston, Texas; Jackson, Mississippi; Atlanta, Georgia; Athens, Georgia; and finally, San Antonio, Texas.

Kevin Lei, Senior Advisor of Events and External Engagement at Communities In Schools, emphasized the importance of this initiative, stating, "Every student deserves to walk into school feeling prepared, supported, and excited about the opportunities ahead." He highlights that the 'Ready, Set, Learn!' tour is not only about distributing school supplies but is a crucial means to show that entire communities stand with their students and families, underscoring the communal support that enhances education.

Financial challenges often plague families at the beginning of the school year, with many students arriving underprepared. By connecting students with resources through this initiative, CIS aims to level the playing field so that students can enter the classroom fully equipped and ready to engage in their learning.

Allie Watters, Senior Manager of Community Relations at Whataburger, remarked on the significance of this collaboration, stating, "Starting a new school year should be a time of excitement and possibility, not worrying about having the resources to succeed." Through this partnership, Whataburger is committed to ensuring that students not only have the materials they need but also the emotional support from caring adults who want to see them thrive.

Last year's effort reached approximately 1,000 students through various support methods, including school supply distributions and volunteer-driven events. This initiative serves to remove educational barriers and instill in students the belief that they belong, and their success is valued.

Communities In Schools is committed to connecting students with indispensable resources and fostering relationships with community members who care. This year’s expansion of the 'Ready, Set, Learn!' tour represents a significant stride in bolstering engagement, attendance, and long-term success in students' educational journeys.

About Communities In Schools and Whataburger

Communities In Schools (CIS) has dedicated nearly five decades to supporting students in their educational journeys. With more than 3,500 schools directly engaged, CIS’s unique model connects students with caring adults and vital resources to help overcome barriers that hinder their success.

Founded in Texas, Whataburger has grown to become a beloved fast-food franchise, now operating over 1,200 locations across 16 states. Known for its quality hamburgers and commitment to community engagement, Whataburger exemplifies hospitality and community connection through initiatives like the 'Ready, Set, Learn!' tour.