At Cor Jesu Academy, our mission is rooted in the belief that every student deserves the opportunity to shine. Our RISE program is a living testament to this mission, reaching the St. Louis Community and surrounding areas to support middle school girls from underserved communities across St. Louis.

RISE, which stands for Readiness, Intellect, Spirituality and Empowerment, is more than an academic and leadership initiative. It is a lifeline of hope and possibility. Hosted at Cor Jesu, RISE opens doors for these young women, giving them the confidence and skills they need to thrive in rigorous college preparatory high schools and beyond.

During the six-week summer program, the halls of Cor Jesu are filled with laughter, determination and learning. Each day begins with a shared meal and prayer, a reminder that every student belongs to a community that believes in her worth. In small groups, students tackle core academic subjects and wellness practices that nurture their minds and spirits. In the afternoons, activities are dedicated to inspiring play and social-emotional growth, giving them the chance to express themselves, build friendships and develop confidence for the future.

Throughout the year, Saturday sessions focus solely on academics, giving students the time and structure to build and refine their math and ELA skills. Each week, these sessions offer a consistent opportunity for focused

instruction and skill development, reinforcing concepts learned during the summer and ensuring that students stay on track. By dedicating Saturdays to academic work, the program strengthens students’ foundational knowledge and helps them feel confident and prepared for high school.

The RISE program’s impact is clear in the steady academic growth of its students. Whether they begin ahead or behind, every girl is supported in reaching her next level of success.

Recent assessments show consistent gains in reading and math scores, with more students moving into higher percentile ranges over time. 72% of RISE students grew in their national percentile scores in Reading and 83% of RISE students grew in their national percentile scores in Math. These improvements demonstrate that RISE is not only preparing students for the rigor of high school, but also helping them grow in confidence, skill and belief in their own potential.

What makes RISE so powerful is not just the curriculum but the belief that every girl who walks through our doors has a gift to share with the world. Starting with a nomination by a school official and in partnership with the student’s guardian, the admissions process then considers financial need and academic potential.

The first cohort of RISE graduates has already secured placements at schools like Cor Jesu Academy, Ursuline Academy, Notre Dame High School, Nerinx Hall and more. Their journey is about more than just high school readiness. It is about discovering their voices and knowing in their hearts that they belong in spaces that once felt out of reach.

For us at Cor Jesu, RISE is a reflection of our deepest values and a promise to live out our mission every day. It is an act of love and faith, a commitment to ensure that every girl, regardless of her background, has the chance to learn, lead and grow.

As a Cor Jesu community, let us hold these young women in our hearts. Let us celebrate their courage and determination, and let us remember that through RISE, we are building a future where every girl can rise as high as her dreams will take her.

If you’re interested in supporting the RISE program, whether through a gift, volunteering as a career speaker or helping with wellness initiatives, please contact our Director of Leadership Giving, Brittany Peek Seabaugh ’04, at (314) 300-6324 or bseabaugh@corjesu.org.