Rise High – Growing Minds Growing Opportunities

Science, Technology, Engineering and Math

and other skills to success in a fun and nurturing environment.

STEM PROGRAM

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Our Program

RISE HIGH is a program for Schenectady City youth where participants learn about STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) and other skills to success, in a fun and nurturing environment. Students are exposed to a wide variety of careers in technology. Through hands-on experiential learning we promote problem-solving and critical thinking, while exercising their creativity and providing the support to help them reach their goals.

OUR MISSION Provide sustained exposure to diverse enrichment learning opportunities in STEM to under-resourced youth in our community via comprehensive approaches that address and overcome barriers to academic, personal, and wellness development.

Benefits of Rise High

Engaging Learning

Sustained Exposure

Mentorship

Cohort Experience

Rise High’s components

Tell Me More

When are the upcoming sessions?

Spring 2021: 7th, 8th & 9th graders

Fall 2021: 8th, 9th, & 10th graders

Note: Due to the COVID pandemic, the 2020 recruitment cycle of 6th to 7th grade (spring to fall) was skipped. As we transition back to in-person programming, we will keep our community informed of future recruitment plans. Go to Apply Now! for updates.

Are all grades together?

Programming is tailored for each independent grade, but we also have some shared sessions. Each cohort (grade) will have 18-20 participants.

Who can apply?

Student from Schenectady City School District
Student resident in Schenectady City
Have an interest and curiosity in STEM subjects
Have limited access to financial, social, mentorship, enrichment opportunities, or academic/professional support resources.

What is the cost to participate in the program?

The program is free of charge for the students and their families.

How do I apply?

Apply Online or Download application HERE, or ask the counselor at your school.

Fill out the student application
Submit two (2) letters of recommendation. At least 1 letter should be from a school teacher (science/math preferred). Both letters can be from teachers. Other adults that can recommend (maximum 1) include community program leaders, or close family friend.
Return paper forms at your school office, email application and letters of recommendation to Apply@rise-high.org, or mail paper forms to P. O. Box 4213, Clifton Park, NY 12065.
If selected, attend student/legal guardian orientation to make sure that we are all on board, and proper signatures are collected to start the fun and learning!

Do I have to reapply every year?

Once you are in the program, and if in good standing, you are automatically enrolled for the following semester/year. We want to see you again for years to come! A new 6th grade cohort will be added every year in the Spring semester. For higher grades, ongoing recruitment will take place based on availability.

Where and when do Rise High sessions take place?

The main hosting locations are SUNY Schenectady County Community College and Clarkson University Capital Region Campus. Field trips will also take place to other locations of interest.

How do I get to these places?

Transportation is provided, free of charge. Pick up and drop off routes are available at different convenient Schenectady City locations.

Will I have access to food vendors?

Morning snacks and lunch will be provided by Rise High, free of charge.