RISE Academy

A positive, strength-based behavior support system is used to help students manage, reflect upon, and modify their behaviors. The goal is to help students develop the skills needed to become intrinsically motivated to reach their potential and become successful students and citizens. RISE staff is committed to developing positive working relationships with all students. We encourage each student to be able to identify at least one trusting adult within the school community.

Students will receive group therapy with the program’s social worker throughout the week. Time and frequency are dependent upon the student’s IEP and BIP. The focus is to work on developing coping skills, using a variety of self- regulation strategies such as mindfulness. Students will learn how to interact with peers in a pro-social manner, and managing frustrations, anxiety, and other challenges.

Identified students may work with the school social worker on an individual basis. Time and frequency are dependent upon the student’s needs and will be determined at the student’s PPT meeting. The focus of school-based therapy is to help students manage difficulties that are interfering with their learning. Referral information to outside agencies can be made available in collaboration with parents and guardians.

• Taking Space – The purpose is to help students self-regulate and identify stressors in order to regain control so that he/she can effectively return to the learning environment. Alternate locations may include a different classroom, social worker’s office, behavior technician room, or with a designated staff member within the building which will be approved by RISE staff, the student, and the guardian.
• Mindfulness – Practicing mindfulness allows us to be fully present in our life and improve the quality of life. Mindfulness is incorporated into all facets of the school day.
• Self-Care – each student will develop a plan that can be referred to prior, during, and after crisis to encourage self-regulation
• Zones of Regulation – a curriculum to foster self-regulation and emotional control
• Second Step Curriculum – a curriculum designed to teach social and academic success

Each campus implements incentive based, reinforcement systems. Students have the opportunity to earn positive reinforcers through the acquisition of daily points. Once the points are earned they belong to the student and cannot be removed. Points can be exchanged for tangible and social reinforcers.

The purpose of restorative justice is to repair the harm done through inclusive processes that engage all stakeholders (students, staff, administrators, families, outside providers, etc.) It shifts the focus of discipline from consequences to learning and from the individual to the community.