Rise High continues to create meaningful, measurable impact in the lives of local students by building a strong foundation for success in STEM — and in life.
Founded in 2017 by Omayra Padilla De Jesus, Terri Little, and Mark Little, Rise High is a free, weekly STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) program serving Schenectady youth in grades 6th through 12th. Built around four core pillars — Engaged Learning, Sustained Exposure, Mentorship, and Cohort Experience — the program creates a dynamic environment where students don’t just learn about STEM concepts; they experience them firsthand.
This January, more than 20 new sixth graders from across Schenectady began their six-year journey with Rise High, joining a program designed to grow with them through high school graduation. Their path mirrors that of the program’s current seniors — many of whom first walked through Rise High’s doors in 2020. Through pandemic disruptions and academic challenges, these students found consistency, guidance, and opportunity in a program committed to walking alongside them year after year.
Rise High meets weekly throughout the school year, operating on a Fall and Spring Term model that provides continuity and stability in a safe, supportive environment. Over time, students build not only academic knowledge, but confidence — exploring new ideas, developing problem-solving skills, and forming lasting connections with peers and mentors.
“Our students begin Rise High at a relatively young age,” said Mark Little, co-founder of Rise High. “These kids are motivated and excited about learning, and their curiosity drives them to dedicate Saturdays to STEM. Our team truly gets to know each individual student — we watch them grow, learn their dreams, provide role models who reflect who they are and what they can achieve. It’s important that we offer support wherever they may need it — personally, academically, and professionally.”
A key element of the program’s sustained exposure pillar is real-world access. Throughout their time at Rise High, students visit professional locations, training centers, college campuses, and more. They meet professors and professionals in their work environments and participate in hands-on learning experiences. Through partnerships such as the RPI Engineering Ambassadors at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, students engage directly with college mentors who introduce them to engineering pathways and serve as relatable role models. These experiences demystify higher education, professional paths, and expand students’ vision for their future.
For seniors, the long-term impact is clear.
“We feel really supported,” said Cole, a senior who has been with Rise High since sixth grade. “They make learning so much more fun than in school. As a senior, I’ve been shown so many possibilities for school and careers, and the program has made connections for me as I decide what’s next. I feel like I could come back in 10 years and they’d still be there for me.”
“The past year we’ve focused a lot on college preparation and the real world,” added Anderson, another senior. “They’ve helped us explore schools and career paths, talked to us about managing finances, and so much more. I may not need every skill right now, but I know I can fall back on them when life calls for it.”
“What I love is that Rise High doesn’t only focus on STEM,” said Mikenzie, who joined the program in 2023. “We’ve been exposed to trades, architecture, and design, and everything connects to real-world applications. I want to be an art teacher, and even though I’m not going into STEM, Rise High has helped me broaden my horizons and make connections for my future. It’s a place where kids feel like they can connect — and that’s important.”
Rise High’s commitment extends beyond career exploration. The team works closely with students to uncover their interests and connect them with professionals in their desired fields. Whether introducing a future doctor to a practicing physician for job shadowing or guiding a student toward data science after discovering a new passion, the program prioritizes informed exploration and empowered decision-making in a supporting environment.