Our Story

In September 2015, RISE Prep Academies opened in partnership with Rhode Island Mayoral Academies to bring an intentionally diverse and rigorous college preparatory K-8 public charter school to Woonsocket, Rhode Island that enrolls scholars from Woonsocket, North Smithfield and Burrillville.

Our school has grown from 46 kindergarten scholars initially to where it is today serving 800+ scholars in grades K-12. We proudly opened RISE Prep Upper Academy in the Fall of 2024.

RISE Prep Academies was established through two years of building, planning and studying the highest-performing schools in the country as part of the Building Excellent Schools Fellowship. We remain driven by the unwavering belief that all students deserve access to high-quality, public, and tuition-free education. Grit and relentless hard work on behalf of students are key to ensuring that as we grow a new grade each year, our scholars are the proof point that demographics and socio-economic status do not determine destiny and that college begins in kindergarten.

Mission

RISE Prep Academies educates all K-12 scholars for success in college and a life of community engagement through a structured learning environment, rigorous college-preparatory curriculum, and character education.

We Believe…

That all scholars can achieve at high levels
In providing a rigorous college preparatory education to all scholars, with a focus on literacy and mathematics, starting in kindergarten
That character development can and must be taught in order to prepare all scholars for success in high school, college and life

QUICK STATS (2026)

Lower Academy (K-8) Current Enrollment: 600+ scholars
Upper Academy (9-12) Current Enrollment: 200+ scholars

As a parent of three children with various physical, mental, and learning challenges, I can confidently say that the rumors about RISE Prep cherry-picking students are completely false. RISE Prep has been a supportive and inclusive environment for my family since 2015. The teachers and staff are true partners in my children’s education, committed to meeting each scholar where they are and helping them reach their full potential.

Sara Wenzel, Mother of a Founding Scholar of RISE Prep Academies

As a parent, I knew we made the right choice from day one. The welcoming atmosphere, dedicated staff, and strong sense of community have made this school a second home for my children. They’ve excelled academically, developed life skills, and formed lasting friendships. I am grateful for the nurturing environment and the countless opportunities provided to them.

Crystal Bounhuang, mother of RISE Prep scholars