Rise School of Dallas

The Rise School of Dallas, also known as the Ashford Rise School of Dallas, is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to providing inclusive early education services. It is the only school in Dallas accredited by the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) that specializes in serving children with special needs. The school integrates children with and without developmental delays, offering a comprehensive curriculum that includes various therapies such as occupational, physical, speech, and music therapy.

Mission and Programs

The Rise School focuses on creating a nurturing environment where children can thrive by providing a blend of intervention and therapy services within a developmentally appropriate curriculum. The school aims to prepare children for their next educational setting, fostering empathy and leadership among its students. It uses the Assessment, Evaluation, Programming System (AEPS) curriculum, which includes developmental assessments and multidisciplinary evaluations to develop individualized intervention plans for children with developmental delays.

Educational Approach

The school's educational model emphasizes side-by-side learning, where children with and without special needs learn together in a 3-4:1 child-to-instructor ratio. This inclusive approach not only benefits children with disabilities by providing them with role models but also enriches the lives of mainstream students by teaching them compassion and understanding.

Operational Structure

The school is part of the YMCA of Metropolitan Dallas and operates with a team of master's level educators, therapists, and classroom staff. Each classroom includes a master’s level educator, a teaching assistant, and sometimes a classroom aide who is an adult with a disability, serving as role models for the children.

Financial Support

The Rise School offers tuition-based programs with financial aid available for qualifying families, ranging from 20% to 80% of the regular tuition cost. The school hosts fundraising events, such as the annual "Runway for Rise" fashion show, to support its programs and provide scholarships to students. Community partnerships, including support from organizations like RoseRock Wealth Management, are crucial in ensuring that no child is turned away due to financial constraints.

Impact and Future Plans

The Ashford Rise School of Dallas serves as a model for inclusive education, promoting a culture of compassion and understanding. The school's vision includes expanding its programs to establish more inclusive educational settings across North Texas and beyond, furthering its mission to create a more empathetic society.