REVIEW OF R.I.S.E. Academy BY Alum, Alec Izere

Overall Experience 5

My experience at Rise Academy was truly transformative and far exceeded my initial expectations. When I first enrolled, I was skeptical. The idea of online learning during COVID seemed daunting, and as a Grade 9 student already balancing my workload, I wasn't sure if adding something new would be worthwhile. I initially thought it would just feel like more schoolwork, but what surprised me most was how unique and engaging the experience turned out to be. The facilitators at Rise Academy made all the difference. Their approach was incredibly flexible, with sessions only twice a week and workloads that were manageable yet impactful. What made it stand out was how personal the learning felt. Lessons weren't just about completing assignments-they connected to my life and sparked curiosity in ways I didn't expect. For I instance, we worked on projects that allowed us to delve into our personal stories. This creative approach made me feel genuinely invested in what I was learning, which motivated me to continue with the program year after year. One thing I truly appreciated was how Rise Academy didn't feel like a traditional school. While the structure was there, it was different because of the emphasis on exploration and connection. For example, instead of simply focusing on textbook material, we explored topics that aligned with our interests and future aspirations. This approach gave me a new appreciation for learning and helped me discover what l'm passionate about. The facilitators also connected us with professionals in fields we were interested in, providing insights that were invaluable. As someone who dreams of becoming a physician, having access to mentors in that field was inspiring and gave me a clearer understanding of the path ahead. If there's one thing l'd change about Rise Academy, it would be to create more opportunities for students from different semesters to connect. For instance, hosting a mid-year gathering in March or April where students from both semesters could share their experiences and ideas would be a fantastic way to build community. This would also give us a chance to learn from each other's journeys and make the program feel even more interconnected. Rise Academy prepared me exceptionally well for my next steps in life. The flexibility it offered allowed me to get ahead in my courses, which meant I could complete Grade 12 early. This gave me the freedom to focus on university applications without the usual stress of wondering if I'd meet my conditional offers. Instead, I felt confident knowing I had already done the work and was well-prepared. For prospective students considering R.I.S.E Academy, I’d say it’s an incredible opportunity to experience a new way of learning. The flexibility of the schedule, the personalized approach, and the connections you’ll make all contribute to an experience that doesn’t feel like traditional school. Instead, it’s a place where you can explore your interests, build skills, and prepare your future in a way that truly excites and inspires you!!

School Leadership 5

Reflecting on my time at Rise Academy, I can confidently say that the leadership and administration were outstanding. The administration team, led by Rebecca, created a supportive and efficient environment that fostered trust and respect among students. Rebecca, in particular, was exceptional-always approachable and solution-oriented Students felt confident in the leadership, and there was a clear sense of mutual respect. Any issues or concerns we had were handled with care. Facilitators served as a bridge between students and administration, ensuring every concern was addressed promptly. This responsiveness contributed to a positive school environment where students felt heard and valued. One-on-one sessions were a highlight of the program. They allowed for direct communication with facilitators, eliminating distractions from other students. This personalized approach made it easier to clarify doubts and tailor the experience to individual needs. The administration also excelled in maintaining flexibility, ensuring that our schedules worked seamlessly with our personal goals. Overall, the leadership at Rise Academy set a standard of excellence. They communicated effectively with students and parents, handled concerns fairly, and ensured a supportive atmosphere where students could thrive. Their dedication made the entire experience truly remarkable.

Teaching 5

The teaching at Rise Academy was exceptional, and I was consistently impressed by the quality of instruction. The facilitators were knowledgeable, passionate, and approachable, creating an inclusive environment where learning thrived. One teacher who stood out was an English major who taught me English. Her expertise and dedication were evident in the constructive feedback she provided on my work, helping me improve with every assignment. The dynamic between students and teachers was both respectful and supportive, blending formal guidance with informal, open communication. Facilitators like Mrs. Chambers, Mrs. Emma Chapman, and Mrs.Abbey Jurgeneit had a significant impact on my academic and personal growth. They challenged me to do my best while encouraging a love for learning. They also shared valuable advice about university life and future opportunities, which was incredibly helpful.

Academics 5

Rise Academy's academic strengths lie in its ability to tailor the learning experience to individual students. While no school's academic success is entirely dependent on the institution itself, Rise fosters an environment where students can excel if they are willing to put in the effort. The academic culture is highly supportive, emphasizing both challenge and growth. Facilitators work closely with students to ensure they feel appropriately challenged while offering the necessary support to help them succeed. From my experience, the student body at Rise was competitive in a healthy way, with students striving for excellence. This culture pushed me to embrace challenges and prepare for the academic demands of university. The program helped me secure admission to my chosen university, and I felt prepared for the next steps in my academic journey. I would strongly recommend Rise Academy to any prospective family.

Extracurriculars 5

As an online virtual school, Rise Academy doesn't have the same range of extracurricular activities as traditional day schools. However, for students in the Ottawa region, there are opportunities such as volunteering at school-hosted events, which I participated in and found meaningful. While extracurriculars are limited compared to in-person schools, the flexibility of the program allows students to pursue interests independently.

Students 5

Looking back, the general atmosphere at Rise Academy stands out as inclusive and empowering. It was amazing to see how students from diverse backgrounds came together with a shared commitment to learning and growth. The typical students ranged from those who thrived in structured environments to those who struggled with traditional learning but excelled in Rise's flexible approach. Despite these differences, everyone shared a desire to succeed, creating a supportive and collaborative environment. Students at Rise upheld values like respect, responsibility, and initiative. The diversity in the student body was remarkable, with peers from various ethnic backgrounds, including Asian, Black, and White students. The dynamic among students was positive-initially connected by shared goals, and over time, those connections deepened as we got to know one another better.

School Life 5

While Rise Academy is a virtual school, the experience of "going to school" there felt unique and impactful. Meeting online was seamless and accessible, which contributed to a stress-free and enjoyable learning environment. Rise does an incredible job of improving the quality of life for its students by fostering flexibility, inclusivity, and a strong sense of support. From my perspective, students at Rise were generally very happy. Everyone I spoke to shared a love for the program, including those who joined new initiatives the school launched. Many students were eager to continue their education at Rise because of the positive experiences they had. The environment cultivated passion and enthusiasm for learning, creating a space where no one felt overly stressed, and everyone was motivated to succeed.

Community 4.5

What stands out about the broader Rise Academy community is the connection between students, parents, and alumni. I've had the opportunity to attend certain events where I shared my personal experience, which was incredibly rewarding. It was great to see how much of an impact the school had on its students over time. The sense of community is strong, and hearing from students who have been there for years, as well as parents who were involved in their children's learning journey, adds to the supportive atmosphere. Parents are definitely welcomed into the life of the school, and I've witnessed many conversations between parents and students about the program, which helps build a deeper understanding of the school's culture. Even after leaving, I've kept in touch with some students and alumni, and we continue to support each other.

School Location 4

As a virtual school, Rise Academy doesn't have a physical campus or surrounding neighbourhood. Students don't venture onto school grounds since everything is conducted online. However, this structure allows students to build their own sense of community virtually. While it might seem like an "island" in some ways, the connections formed between students and facilitators create a strong, supportive environment.

Admissions 5

For anyone applying for admission, focus on maintaining strong grades, as they play a significant role, especially for universities with supplementary applications. Start working on those applications early to avoid last-minute stress or technical issues. From my experience, the application process can feel stressful, particularly when waiting to hear back from reach schools, which may take until March or May. My advice is to balance preparation with enjoyment—make the most of your final year of high school by trying new things and savouring the experience.

University placement and counselling 4

University placement and counselling at Rise Academy are typically handled through a student's homeschool, so my experience is somewhat limited in this area. However, compared to day school counsellors, who may sometimes take a more general or simplified approach, I feel the guidance that I received was more focused and helpful. Furthermore, I was fortunate to receive early advice, starting in Grade 10, about ensuring I had the required U-level courses for university applications. This early guidance allowed me to set clear goals and stay on track. While I can't comment extensively on Rise Academy's direct counselling, the flexibility of their program gave me the time and space to focus on my university goals. Overall, I felt adequately prepared to apply to my first-choice post-secondary program.