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South Bend’s Rise Up Academy Celebrates Historic Graduation Rate and City Council Recognition

South Bend’s Rise Up Academy Celebrates Historic Graduation Rate and City Council Recognition

Rise Up Academy, part of the South Bend Community School Corporation, is celebrating a milestone with a record-breaking graduation rate of over 91 percent for the 2023-24 school year — the highest in school history. 

This success, which highlights Rise Up Academy’s commitment to every student’s potential, was recognized last week by the South Bend Common Council. Councilwoman and Rise Up Academy Guidance Counselor Sherry Bolden-Simpson presented a proclamation to honor the academy’s achievements at the recent meeting of the South Bend Schools Board of Trustees, reflecting the impact Rise Up Academy has on students and the community.

“Rise Up Academy’s dedicated staff and caring, project-based approach have transformed our students’ educational experience,” said Principal Bayingana. “This recognition from the City Council is a testament to our team’s commitment to helping each student ‘rise up’ and succeed, no matter their past.”

Rise Up Academy’s project-based curriculum emphasizes hands-on, engaging experiences that keep students focused and motivated. By nurturing critical thinking and collaboration skills in a safe, supportive environment, Rise Up Academy has empowered its students to excel, reaching a graduation rate that is both record-breaking and inspiring for the entire community.

Last year, the Indiana Department of Education awarded Rise Up Academy a $3 million Next Generation School Improvement Grant (Next Gen SIG), further bolstering its resources. This funding, provided by federal Title I dollars, supports the Extended Learning Program, which offers additional academic and personal growth opportunities. These resources have helped Rise Up Academy to become a model of educational innovation and commitment to student success.