A Step Further

Tutor-Mentor Ol’livia Jonson (left) and Partner Teacher Hanna Davis.

Ol’livia Johnson knows the value of helping others, thanks to Root 2 Rise.

Sharing her math “tips and tricks” helped a struggling student finally pass a multiplication test, an achievement that brought Johnson to tears.

It was one of many experiences that solidified her desire to be a special education teacher. 

“I realized that I am truly a role model even in the small things I do,” she said, noting that young students took reading more seriously when they saw her reading. 

 “I’ve always been an extrovert but Root 2 Rise has taken me a step further to be able to speak out in my life with family and friends, too.” 

As a senior at Reynolds Learning Academy (near Portland, Oregon), she believes she will bring the “energy and hope” she derived from helping first and second graders to her role as a Tutor-Mentor for fourth graders this fall.

"I love telling people about Root 2 Rise,” she said.