R.I.S.E

Revealing Inner Strengths through Empowerment (RISE) is an exciting new program that focuses on preventing bullying and violence, building self-esteem; learning tools for positive peer relationships; and developing leadership – all through a gender-specific lens!  Trained facilitators from OPBI deliver the program using carefully crafted, nationally researched curricula and best practices.

The RISE program is geared towards 6th grade because this time is often a difficult transition period for youth, and their risk for poor relationships and increased violence typically increases without prevention measures. The RISE program is delivered in a safe, collaborative learning environment in which students participate in setting up the structure and support one another throughout.  All sessions include both discussion and activity and draw from students’ experiences and interpretations of their social world.

There are 2 versions of the RISE Program: RISE Saturated and RISE 10.  Both are geared towards 6th grade.

RISE Saturated is implemented daily in several Hillsborough County Public Schools on the 6th grade elective wheel, meaning that all 6th graders have an opportunity to participate in this program. This more intensive version also includes a leadership component, through with youth develop and participate in a special advocacy project, spreading the message about one of the core focus areas of RISE.  Program Facilitators also serve as liaisons to relevant administrators, faculty members, and teachers, and they coordinate parent and teacher outreach efforts such as educational workshops and presentations.  Parent involvement events may include breakfasts, parent/child workshops, appreciation ceremonies, or other kinds of celebrations. 

RISE 10 is an option for any school that would like to have a 10-12 session program for a select group of 6th grade boys and/or girls, during or after school.  This version has more flexibility, and can be offered once per week, rather than daily.  This may be ideal for pull-out groups, after-school groups, clubs, part of the AVID program, or part of a leadership program. 

Please contact Anna Abella, Director of School Programs, for additional information on starting a RISE program at your school!