Young people rise when they’re seen, supported, and believed in
We train, coach, and compensate high school students to lead in elementary classrooms — unlocking their potential, inspiring younger learners, and helping school systems thrive in meaningful ways.
“Root 2 Rise changed my life. When I started, I didn’t care about school. My attitude toward teachers was bad, and I didn’t think I’d graduate. But working with younger students changed everything. I got more confident. I wanted to do better — for them and for myself. Now, I want to help people. I’m even thinking about becoming a teacher someday. The kids I worked with were nice to me every single day. They changed me — and I think I changed them too.”
Dietrich Swain, R2R Alumnus
All students have the potential to succeed. We’re here to help them build their confidence and purpose along the way.
Juniors & Seniors seeking to earn credits to graduate and build career skills
Students
Elementary & High School Educators and Administrators interested in bringing R2R to your school
Educators
Donors, volunteers, and helpers of all kinds considering getting involved and investing in your community
Supporters
Creating Space for Teens to Explore Possibilities
Many of our high school Tutor-Mentors face obstacles that can make traditional school pathways challenging — some haven’t yet found joy in their education and others are entering the program at risk of not graduating. Root 2 Rise steps in and provides a supportive environment for young people to be a positive force in their school community, recharge their educational goals, and plan for their aspirations after high school.
Through this experience, they build confidence, purpose, and real-world skills that prepare them for future success and stability.
An innovative program model where everyone wins
Root 2 Rise transforms school communities into places where growth multiplies in every direction. High school Tutor-Mentors step into leadership guiding younger students, supporting elementary teachers, and discovering their power to make a positive impact.
Through this unique programming, truly amazing things take root.
Growth that moves through the entire school community
Tutor-Mentors
Grow into confident leaders who make a real impact.
Elementary Students
Receive increased individualized care during the school day.
Partner Teachers
See classrooms supercharged with learning with another helper in the classroom.
Families
See their children more connected and thinking about the future.
School Leaders
Experience stronger school culture and more engaged students.
Communities
Benefit from young people stepping into purpose and leadership.
Root 2 Rise is built on research-backed violence prevention and protective factors frameworks recognized by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and youth development experts. Our program strengthens key personal skills like confidence and problem-solving, while also cultivating caring adult and peer relationships — both proven to reduce risks and support lasting success for young people.
