Where Every Student’s Growth is Possible

We built a program so all young people would have the chance to find their joy in education — and their path ahead.

I want R2R at my school

Root 2 Rise turns the usual story on its head.

Instead of labeling high schoolers as “behind” or “under-performing,” we see students who haven’t yet found their joy in their educational journey. And we put them in charge — as trained Tutor-Mentors helping younger students in elementary classrooms build skills and meet grade-level goals. Teachers gain real support with another person working alongside them, while Tutor-Mentors earn credit, a stipend, and leadership experience which impacts how they engage in their education.

The result is powerful: students who once felt disconnected become the ones driving change in their schools and communities.

It’s time to re-imagine the ways we traditionally support students

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i'm ready to be a tutor-mentor

Tutor-Mentors leave

their experience with:

  • Academic credits that help them graduate on time

  • A deeper connection to their school community, including trusted adults

  • Real-world leadership, employability, and communication certification, accredited by the state of Wisconsin and Oregon

  • Confidence in what they’re capable of and increased future orientation

  • A $750 financial stipend for time spent in the classroom

  • A new bank account and financial literacy instruction

  • A supportive network of adults and community partners that stick with them after graduation through our Thrive program

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“Root 2 Rise is one of the best youth education and leadership development programs in Wisconsin. The work these high school students and the leadership of Root 2 Rise have done with our children and staff has been extraordinary. These young people are star mentors who are a great inspiration to our young scholars and a great support to our teachers. We hope this organization will grow to partner with and help many more schools and children in Dane County and our state.”

Kaleem Caire, CEO & Founder of One City Schools

The Transformation is Real

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100% of Tutor-Mentors go on to graduate

100% of Tutor-Mentors report gaining leadership skills

92% of Tutor-Mentors report pride and satisfaction in their role

93% of Partner Teachers report their Tutor-Mentor built strong, positive relationships with students in the classroom

90% of Partner Teachers report a more productive classroom environment due to their Tutor-Mentor

See More Impact

How it Works

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    Partnering with Schools

    Root 2 Rise engages both district and school leaders to bring the program to life. Initial conversations may begin at the district or school level, with school staff playing a critical role in championing the program within their communities. The High School and Elementary Coordinators are identified to oversee recruitment, onboarding, and implementation — and importantly, are compensated for their time and efforts through a stipend.

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    Application and Onboarding

    All high school students who want to participate are welcome to apply. Accepted students complete an orientation that introduces program expectations, professional norms, and classroom responsibilities. This ensures every Tutor-Mentor is prepared to take on a leadership role before signing a rigorous contract outlining goals and accountability measures.

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    Intentional Placement and Support

    Root 2 Rise High School and Elementary Coordinators collaborate to match Tutor-Mentors with their Partner Teachers. Placements are carefully considered to maximize impact in the classroom, and Coordinators provide ongoing guidance throughout the school year to support student success.

  • Engagement, Reflection, and Skill Building

    Tutor-Mentors set personal and professional goals, engage intentionally in classrooms, and complete regular reflections. Program requirements align with competencies recognized by the Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction, including Employability Skills and Youth Leadership Certificates, helping students develop tangible, career-ready skills.

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    Financial Literacy and Career Preparation

    Tutor-Mentors receive a $750 stipend and guidance on setting up a bank account, budgeting, and basic financial literacy preparing them for responsible decision-making after high school. They also gain exposure to post-graduate opportunities, building awareness of career paths, including teaching and other professions.

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    Recognized Achievement and Ongoing Support

    Students who fulfill their commitments earn high school credits, leadership experience, and a foundation for life after high graduation. The Thrive program continues to support alumni with holistic guidance, resources, and mentoring as they navigate college, careers, and other post-secondary opportunities.

I want to bring r2r to my school