From the Head of School: Fall Reflection
As I’ve been looking back on the fall season at Rise Academy, one highlight continues to stand out: the incredible exposure our students have had to industries and opportunities. This semester, they’ve been out in the community on field trips and at colleges. They’ve connected with professionals at conferences and at our college and career fair.
What’s most meaningful about this is that students are able to see themselves in these spaces. I can see their self-confidence building not only as a result of the networking fundamentals they’re learning at Rise, but because of the frequency of interactions they’re having with career professionals who believe in them.
“ I can see students’ self-confidence building not only as a result of the networking fundamentals they’re learning at Rise, but because of the frequency of interactions they’re having with career professionals who believe in them.”
Dr. Brittany Lopes, Head of School
As a school, we’ve settled into who we are becoming at Rise Academy. Having an educational philosophy and a Portrait of a Graduate that reflect our identity has grounded us and will shape our strategic planning, especially as we continue to reflect on our role in Richmond’s East End.
Of course, leadership always comes with its own challenges. This is the time of year when I’m frequently out of the building to meet partners and share our mission. While I appreciate these opportunities, I’m always mindful of my absence. If I could clone myself and be everywhere at once, especially with the students, I would.
Yet even this challenge highlights the blessings of the fall. I’m grateful for the chance to share the good news about Rise with new people. I’m grateful for faculty and staff who faithfully carry out our mission, even when I’m away. I’m grateful for a community that champions our students. And I’m grateful to have a front-row seat to students discovering their God-given potential.
I’m excited to see what comes in this next season. Happy Thanksgiving!
