It’s a new morning in Room 411, and the RISE program is kicking off another exciting day. Blake, Gaby, Graysen, Jacob, Kellan, Sammy, and Skyler are ready to dive into a full schedule designed to support both their learning and personal growth. After unpacking, the day starts with some focused writing practice. But the real excitement is still ahead! Next comes a favorite part of the day—downtime. A chance to relax, recharge, and enjoy a calm break before jumping into P.E., where students get to burn off some energy.
Lunchtime follows, then it’s free time to catch up with friends or explore interests. Math and ELA are up next because mastering academics is key to success. And when it’s time for Explore, you might spot them in art, choir, or music class—so don’t forget to say hello! The day wraps up with Science, but the learning doesn’t stop there. For these students, every day in RISE is full of growth, discovery, and fun!
RISE which stands for Reaching Independence through Support and Education, is a dynamic learning environment where students with intellectual or multiple disabilities are provided individualized instruction and support at their instructional level within a special education setting. It’s a functional education program that weaves in a lot of fun throughout the day. RISE’s program leader is Ms. Solanki. I was able to speak with her about the RISE program goals. She informed me that one of RISE’s main goals is to help students reach independence in their daily living skills and to be a good citizen. Additonally, academic success is a main goal. You can’t have a school without classes and learning after all!
Let me introduce our RISE Redhawks…
RISE is supported by many fantastic assistants. Check out what some of the RISE assistants had to say about their favorite part of the program!
Mr. Gerry – “I enjoy seeing the kids progress and growth.” A bonus fun fact he shared is that his favorite food is double sausage pizza!
Ms. Jenny – “I enjoy seeing RISE students help and encourage each other within their classroom and I also enjoy when they have fun interacting with other peers”.
Ms. Amy – ” My favorite part of the program is watching the kids’ skills grow and interacting with each other.”
Ms. K – “Getting to know each kid is the best part… what they like, their favorite things, and how they grow.”
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Ms. Amy, Jacob and Mr. Gerry
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Blake
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Graysen and his friends from Wredling
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Gaby & Sammy
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Mrs. Solanki and Kellan
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Ms. Jenny and Blake
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RISE is an invaluable part of our Wredling community. As their vision states, “The RISE program is integrated and valued as a part of the larger school and district community.” It’s designed to be inclusive, creating connections and opportunities for all of the students!
Alexis Keller • Nov 4, 2024 at 1:34 pm
I loved this article! It told me so much more about the rise kids other than seeing them in the hallway. -Great work Violet!
Avery • Nov 4, 2024 at 1:29 pm
Seeing the RISE kids make me smile.
Patrick Brennan • Nov 4, 2024 at 10:10 am
Every day I see the rise kids it makes my day when I see them, like Blake.
nate • Nov 4, 2024 at 9:55 am
All of the rise students have made my day at lunch
nate • Nov 4, 2024 at 9:47 am
YOU RULE BLAKE!!!!!!
Hannah Peterson • Nov 1, 2024 at 5:13 pm
I loved learning more about our RISE program!! I got a chance to hang out with some of last year’s RISE students during PE last year, and I had the best time–I’m so glad readers can hear more about how amazing the RISE program is!! Amazing article Violet!!