For many R2R Tutor-Mentors, the stipend they earn is their first paycheck. R2R doesn't think that's where the job ends. Find out how the program is building the financial foundation students need to make that first paycheck the beginning of something much bigger — and how that work came to life this year at partner school Reynolds Learning Academy in Portland.

Teeli Thao knows what it feels like to sit in a classroom and not quite belong. Now, as a Root 2 Rise Tutor-Mentor in Madison Metropolitan School District, he brings that experience to the students who need it most. In his first year, he's helped a struggling reader hit a big goal, shown up on his days off, and plans to major in education. With a year of real classroom experience already behind him, he's already made a real difference — and he's just getting started.

From one school in Madison to 400 Tutor-Mentors across Wisconsin and Oregon — Root 2 Rise has a new look that's caught up to where we've arrived.

Ol'livia Johnson came to Root 2 Rise unsure of what she had to offer. Now she is leaving with a college plan, a purpose, and a classroom full of kids who changed her life. As she looks ahead, she reflects on the program that reminded her school was exactly where she wanted to be.

Changes have taken root at Madison’s La Follette High School for the 2025-26 school year – and the results are apparent on several levels. Vivid art now lines the walls, replacing the drab colors often associated with schools from just a few years ago.

And, most importantly, there abundant new opportunities for students . . .

Jaden Wilson and Protégé Delaney don't know each other. They live in different states, go to different schools, and have different stories. But ask them what Root 2 Rise means, and you'll hear the same thing: it gave them a place to lead and grow.

A new school year brings remarkable opportunities for our Tutor-Mentors

All are welcome at Root 2 Rise.

Seeing versus watching.

Seeds continue to amaze me.