The Rise School of Corpus Christi is a leading preschool dedicated to offering exceptional early childhood education to children of all abilities, within an inclusive environment. Rise Team The Rise is truly fortunate to have a remarkable team supporting our mission, both in the classroom and behind the scenes. From our esteemed administration and faulty to our dedicated teachers and therapists, we unite in our commitment to ensure that all students, regardless of ability, receive access to a top-tier education. Adminstration Karen Pullam M.S. Executive Director Lauretta Andrews Assistant Director Teachers Kati Medina Lead Teacher Baby Blue Room Kimberly Cuellar Instructional Assistant Baby Blue Room Coming Soon Instructional Assistant Baby Blue Room Ada Rodriguez Lead Teacher Purple Room Chloe Hernandez Instructional Assistant Purple Room Leslee Vela Instructional Assistant Purple Room Therapists Physical Therapy: Jacob Campbell, PTA Shannon Hathaway, PTA Rehabilitation Manager: Florence Tiller , MS, CCC/SLP Occupational Therapy: Rachel Leanos COTA Rachel Garcia, COTA Speech Therapy: Julie Whiteneck, MS, CCC/SLP Sarah Gleinser, MS, CCC/SLP Music Therapy: Kay Van Derostyne Jessica Alejos Lead Teacher Green Room Kassandra Rosales Instructional Assistant Green Room Cameron Spencer Instructional Assistant Green Room Veronica Olvera M.S. Lead Teacher Blue Room Emily Gomez Instructional Assistant Blue Room Abigail Godsey Instructional Assistant Blue Room Yvonne Perez Lead Teacher Red Room Frances Herrera Instructional Assistant Red Room Marisela Mondragon Instructional Assistant Red Room

The Rise School of Corpus Christi is a leading preschool dedicated to offering exceptional early childhood education to children of all abilities, within an inclusive environment. Rise Enrollment We are delighted that you have chosen to explore how our inclusive and enriched program can provide your child with the best possible start in life. Children are enrolled in our program based on their age, individual needs, and the availability of space in the classroom. It is crucial that each child is able to benefit from participating in a group setting. At the Rise School of Corpus Christi, we promote inclusivity and do not discriminate based on race, color, abilities, or national or ethnic origin. We welcome all eligible children that are able to participate in a classroom environment. Three-Step Process 1 To start the enrollment process, interested families should fill out the online student interest form/waiting list application. Please keep in mind that while this form serves as an important step, it does not guarantee admission. Enrollment spots fill up quickly and if room is not available for your child in the classroom you are seeking, then your child will be placed on a waiting list if you choose. Please only serious applicants need apply. 2 Once your application is received and processed, you will receive an invitation to schedule a tour of the school. During this event, both you and your child will meet with Rise staff and teachers. The goal of the tour is to learn more about you and your child and to begin our assessment of your child’s individual learning needs. Tours will last approximately one hour. 3 After touring our school, if space is available you will receive a registration packet to start the enrollment process. Congratulations, your child is now a Rise student! If space is unavailable, your child will be placed in our waiting pool for potential enrollment in the following school year or when space becomes available. Prior to Admission, Parents Must Also Provide: A current physical exam including a statement that their child is able to participate in a school-based program. Current immunization record or state exemption. Current vision and hearing screening for children 4 years and older. If applicable, parent must provide copies of current IFSP or IEP and/or therapist evaluations. Once your child is offered a spot in our program, each family is required to participate in the Rise Parent Orientation program. This orientation provides valuable information about our program and expectations. After enrollment, each child will receive a comprehensive assessment to evaluate their specific needs and strengths. This assessment is instrumental in creating an individualized instruction plan that is tailored to meet each child's unique requirements and facilitate their academic growth. Enrich Your Child's Journey and Secure Your Spot Today! Interest Form Application Please Note: We are accepting applications for the 2026-2027 school year only. If certain classrooms are not available you may be placed on a waiting list. To be placed on a waiting list please apply here. Waiting List

The Rise School of Corpus Christi is a leading preschool dedicated to offering exceptional early childhood education to children of all abilities, within an inclusive environment. Discover The Rise School of Corpus Christi Notice of Nondiscriminatory Policy as to Students The Rise School of Corpus Christi admits students of any race, color, national and ethnic origin to all the rights, privileges, programs and activities generally accorded or made available to students at the school. It does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, disability, national and ethnic origin in administration of its educational policies, admissions policies, scholarship and loan programs, and athletic or other school-administered programs.

The Rise School of Corpus Christi is a leading preschool dedicated to offering exceptional early childhood education to children of all abilities, within an inclusive environment. The Rise School of Corpus Christi proudly opened its doors in August 2007 History In 2006, a Corpus Christi family welcomed a son with Down syndrome and encountered a lack of full-time preschool programs for children with developmental disabilities in their area. Dissatisfied with the limited state-funded services, the family and close friends embarked on a search for a nationally renowned program. Their quest led them to Tuscaloosa, Alabama, where they found the exceptional "Rise" program, spearheaded by Martha Cook, Ed.D. The Rise Program an Answered Prayer The Rise program uniquely caters to the needs of children with developmental disabilities, emphasizing integration with typically developing peers. That's exactly what the family was looking for. The innovative approach at Rise has consistently exceeded expectations, driving remarkable achievements not only for children with disabilities and delays but for all children involved in the program. Driscoll Children’s Hospital In order to bring the Rise School model to Corpus Christi, it was crucial to establish a strong affiliation that would garner credibility and respect in the community. Fortunately, Driscoll Children’s Hospital agreed to enter into an affiliation agreement, paving the way for the realization of the Rise School in the city. We owe Driscoll Children’s Hospital a debt of gratitude and our so thankful for there support. With Driscoll’s help and with the dedicated effort of community volunteers and the Rise Board of Directors, the Rise School of Corpus Christi proudly opened its doors in August 2007.

The Rise School of Corpus Christi is a leading preschool dedicated to offering exceptional early childhood education to children of all abilities, within an inclusive environment. Rise Aftercare Program Dedicated to meeting the needs of busy families already enrolled at The Rise School of Corpus Christ, the Rise Enrichment Program is a specialized aftercare service. Which provides extended childcare beyond the school day, helping working parents access reliable care and support between the hours of 2:30-5:30p.m. Our program offers a safe and stimulating environment for your child to play, explore and learn under the guidance of a highly qualified Rise Floating Teacher and/or Teacher Assistant. With the focus on both quiet and active play, your child will have an enriching camp-like experience through a variety of engaging activities. Floating Teachers and Teaching Assistants receive the same training as all other Rise teachers in regulations outlined by the Texas Department of Family Services. Please Note: Enrollment is subject to availability, family and child needs. We aim to maintain a safe and supportive environment for every child, and as such, Rise reserves the right to decline enrollment if necessary.

The Rise School of Corpus Christi is a leading preschool dedicated to offering exceptional early childhood education to children of all abilities, within an inclusive environment. Education for All - Support Us Today Corporate Partners, Small Businesses and Grantors We invite your corporation, small business, foundation, or family to partner with The Rise School of Corpus Christi. Whether you are interested in supporting specific programs tailored to your group's interests or seeking group volunteer opportunities. We encourage you to reach out for more information on how we can collaborate and customize a sponsorship opportunity for you. The Rise School does not receive government funding and relies on community support through individual donors, fundraising events, corporate gifts, and grants. While grants are often earmarked for specific focuses, projects, or campaigns, they can also be allocated to our general operating budget, covering essential overhead costs. If you are aware of any grants that align with The Rise School's mission and/or would like to explore becoming a sponsor, please connect with Karen Harris, the Rise School Director, at director@risecorpuschristi.org or contact her at 361-814-9399. In-Kind Support Our school prospers with donations of materials, goods and services. To keep expenses at a minimum, many of our fundraising events utilize in-kind goods and services. To donate a business service or product, please connect with Lauretta Andrews, our Assistant Director at assisstant@risecorpuschristi.org or contact her at 361-814-9399. Your support and involvement can make a meaningful difference in the lives of the children we serve. We thank you in advance for your consideration and support. Our Incredible Story Help Us Transform Lives Transform Lives with Your Donation

The Rise School of Corpus Christi is a leading preschool dedicated to offering exceptional early childhood education to children of all abilities, within an inclusive environment. Board of Directors Working closely with our dedicated staff, our advisory board provides a range of valuable and unique perspectives to shape the school's strategic direction and ensure our mission is effectively carried out. Sherry Rumley, Founder Chrissy Royo, Co-Founder Rob George, President Amanda Shea, Vice President Jennifer Childers, Secretary Frank Hastings, Treasurer Board Members Ruben Bonilla Christopher Garza Becky Grady Stephanie Rodriguez Lou Villagomez Sr. Jessica Williams

The Rise School of Corpus Christi is a leading preschool dedicated to offering exceptional early childhood education to children of all abilities, within an inclusive environment. Classrooms At the Rise school our classrooms are designed to inspire creativity and enhance the learning experience. We take pride in our modern and well-equipped classrooms, that provide a welcoming and stimulating environment for our students to thrive and excel in their educational journey. We offer classroom instruction and care for infants, toddlers, preschool and pre-K children. Our research-based curriculum, coupled with high expectations, fosters academic, emotional, and social growth, while promoting understanding and empathy for diverse abilities. Graduates of The Rise School of Corpus Christi emerge as empowered advocates for inclusivity, contributing to a more compassionate world where every child can shine! The Rise Program Through small class sizes and a 4:1 student-teacher ratio , we offer personalized attention and instruction. Whether students are traditional learners or have developmental delays, we are dedicated to nurturing their unique potential and creating a supportive learning environment. Infants - 12-24 Months Our Infant program prioritizes nurturing and stimulating sensory and motor development. With personalized care from experienced caregivers, we aim to build strong bonds with our infants, fostering a secure and caring environment. Additionally, our program embraces the philosophy of early childhood education, incorporating activities to support language development, cognitive exploration, and social interaction during this critical period of rapid brain development. While our experienced caregivers create a warm and welcoming atmosphere, where infants can explore and discover the world around them, fostering a love for learning. Toddlers - 2-3 Years In our Toddler program, children are guided through a crucial phase of transitioning from infancy to childhood with dedicated support from our teachers and developmental experts. As they navigate new routines and embrace a growing sense of independence, they also delve into language and communication skills, form friendships, and learn to regulate their emotions with empathy towards others. Our experienced teachers provide a supportive environment where toddlers can thrive and grow, encouraging their social, emotional, and cognitive development during this formative period. Preschool 3-4 Years Our Preschool program emphasizes both academic and social development, preparing children for future educational milestones in a supportive and inclusive setting. Teachers work on improving pre-handwriting abilities, encourage solving problems collaboratively with peers, nurture social-emotional growth, and help children refine their ability to communicate and understand their own needs. This stage fosters a balance between independence and interdependence, offering more opportunities for teamwork and interactive play with their peers. Pre-K 5-6 Years Our Pre-K program is designed to help children transition smoothly into kindergarten by developing their cognitive and social skills even further. With a structured curriculum, our teachers encourage creativity, cooperation, and critical thinking through a variety of activities. Our well-equipped classrooms feature age-appropriate resources, including educational toys, games, and technology to enrich learning experiences, emphasizing play-based learning for acquiring foundational skills essential for future success. Rise Schedule The Rise School follows an annual calendar, with classes held from 8:00 AM to 2:30 PM, Monday through Friday. For families enrolled in The Rise School, extended care services are available from 2:30 PM to 5:30 PM during school days. While extended care does not follow the same curriculum as The Rise School, it does offer a secure and nurturing learning environment for all children. For information on how to enroll visit our enrollment page. Enrollment Schedule a Tour Today! If you have any further questions or would like to schedule a tour, please visit our enrollment page or contact us at 361-814-9399. We look forward to welcoming you and your child to The Rise School of Corpus Christi. Schedule a Tour Discover The Rise School of Corpus Christi Notice of Nondiscriminatory Policy as to Students The Rise School of Corpus Christi admits students of any race, color, national and ethnic origin to all the rights, privileges, programs and activities generally accorded or made available to students at the school. It does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, disability, national and ethnic origin in administration of its educational policies, admissions policies, scholarship and loan programs, and athletic or other school-administered programs.

The Rise School of Corpus Christi is a leading preschool dedicated to offering exceptional early childhood education to children of all abilities, within an inclusive environment. Therapy Services Therapies are built into the school day and are provided in a large group setting with some one-on-one sessions. All of our students benefit from the Rise team of specialists. With eyes on every child, they observe where preschoolers require extra help and offer comprehensive supports to advance each child’s progress towards reaching developmental milestones. Nurturing Development The Rise School of Corpus Christi works in collaboration with Driscoll Children's Hospital to provide our students with therapy services. Licensed physical, occupational, speech, and music therapists support our students as part of the classroom experience. The Rise Difference Occupational Therapy Occupational therapy at The Rise School focuses on meaningful activities that promote physical and mental well-being for our students. Our therapists address physical, cognitive, psychosocial, and sensory aspects, modifying activities and environments to minimize barriers to participation. By meeting each child where they are and offering a "just right challenge," we strive to support all students in reaching their fullest potential in the classroom. Physical Therapy Physical therapy plays a significant role in the overall development and well-being of children. At The Rise School, our dedicated team of physical therapists prioritize the identification and assessment of each student's unique mobility requirements. Through personalized interventions and evidence-based approaches, we aim to optimize each child's physical abilities, enhance their independence, and promote their overall growth and prosperity. Speech Therapy At The Rise School, we prioritize the development of language and communication skills in every child. Through our speech therapy program, we provide developmentally appropriate language stimulation to support verbal and nonverbal communication. Our dedicated speech therapists implement personalized interventions early on, focusing on creating a safe and encouraging environment for children to practice and enhance their communication skills. Music Therapy Music therapy is a creative and engaging approach that fosters the growth and acquisition of new skills in children. Under the expert guidance of a certified music therapist, music-based activities are tailored to individual goals, stimulating various areas of the brain to promote development. This form of therapy enhances cognitive abilities, emotional expression, motor skills, and social interaction.

The Rise School of Corpus Christi is a leading preschool dedicated to offering exceptional early childhood education to children of all abilities, within an inclusive environment. Rise Curriculum At The Rise School of Corpus Christi, our carefully crafted curriculum goes beyond academic preparation. Our graduates possess a strong foundation for success in kindergarten and beyond, demonstrating a deep understanding and appreciation for the diverse perspectives that enrich our community. Through our comprehensive curriculum, we foster a love for learning, instill critical thinking skills, and nurture the characteristics that make our students truly exceptional. Creative Curriculum Creative currriculum is an early childhood curriculum that builds children's confidence, creativity, and critical thinking through hands on, project-based investigations. It nurtures the whole child, builds early language and literacy skills, develops math skills and facilitates individualized instruction. Curriculum Key Elements Language Development We create a language-rich classroom environment, providing ample opportunities for singing, reading, and talking. Our focus is on developing skills related to phonological awareness, alphabet knowledge, print awareness, vocabulary, and comprehension. Social Emotional Development We prioritize trust and relationship building, fostering healthy attachments among our students. Through targeted activities, we support the development of impulse control and enhance social interactions. Cognitive Development Our curriculum promotes the understanding of cause-and-effect relationships and encourages critical and creative thinking to solve child-sized problems. We also emphasize skill development in areas such as classification, patterns, one-to-one correspondence, order and sequence, and numeration. Physical Development Fine motor and gross motor skill development are integrated into our curriculum. We provide opportunities to improve balance, coordination, and control, emphasizing approaches to learning that encourage curiosity, persistence, attention, and effective communication. Zoo Phonics At Rise we also incorporate Zoo Phonics and Read and Learn to enhance literacy goals. Our therapists utilize a variety of assessment instruments to evaluate children's learning and development effectively. So that literacy becomes a key aspect of our learning curriculum. By weaving these elements together, we guarantee that our curriculum prioritizes and promotes curiosity, academic growth, focused attention, and effective communication at every stage of learning.

The Rise School of Corpus Christi is a leading preschool dedicated to offering exceptional early childhood education to children of all abilities, within an inclusive environment. Embrace the Power of Giving - Rise Fundraising Events Join us at our upcoming Rise Fundraising Events and experience the power of community. From engaging school activities to community-wide fundraisers, there's something for everyone to participate in. Help us make a positive impact and raise crucial funds towards creating a brighter future for the children we serve. Together, we can make a difference! Volunteer Today Upcoming Events - 2026 20TH Annual Rise and Shine 10K/5K/1K Run Saturday February 21st, 2026 - 8AM Event & Registration Details Sponsor Details Donate Today rise playhouse adventure October 11, 2025 Help Us Transform Lives Support Us Today! 11th Annual Rise, Swing & Swing PayPal Transform Lives with Your Donation Donate Today

The Rise School of Corpus Christi is a leading preschool dedicated to offering exceptional early childhood education to children of all abilities, within an inclusive environment. Rise Careers Thank you for your interest in employment at The Rise School of Corpus Christi. Applicants must meet minimum requirements for the position for which they are applying and will be considered for positions if the minimum requirements are met. Please review the job descriptions before applying. Once you are ready to apply, please include your resume and a cover letter. We are always accepting resumes from qualified candidates who are interested in working at Rise. We look forward to hearing from you! Shaping the Future At Rise, we are committed to providing a supportive and inclusive environment for both students and staff. We believe that education is a powerful tool for positive change, and we are always looking for passionate individuals to join our team. Current Openings Teacher Positions & Requirements Lead Teacher A lead teacher at Rise is not just a typical educator. They are an outstanding professional with a master's degree and a wealth of experience in special education, early childhood education, or a related field. They serve as a strong advocate for our mission and embody professionalism and act as a source of support and partnership for families and staff. They provide explicit coaching to teachers and assistant teachers and possess expertise in early childhood education for children of all abilities. Lead Teacher: has or is working towards a master’s degree in early childhood, special education, or related field. Teacher At Rise a teacher is more than just a dedicated professional with a bachelor's degree and hands-on experience in special education, early childhood education, or a related field. They embody the role of both coach and mentor and take charge in guiding a teaching assistant on minimum standards, and actively strives to exceed quality benchmarks for education. Moreover, they excel in effective communication, willingly to collaborate with others, and possess extensive expertise in early childhood education for children of diverse abilities. Teacher: has or is working towards a bachelor’s degree in early childhood, special education, or related field. Instructional Assistant An instructional assistant at The Rise School of Corpus Christi is an exemplary educator that possesses a high school diploma, college credit hours in early childhood, and preferably associate degree in related field or CDA but not mandatory. Preference is given to a candidate with experience working with special education, early childhood education, and/or a related field. An instructional assistant must demonstrate passion, patience, creativity, flexibility, and respect. Candidate must be punctual and reliable, work well with others, and be self-motivated. All applicants will be required to complete a background check, meet minimum standards training, and complete CPR/First Aid prior to start date. Instructional assistants work M-F 7:15 AM - 5:30 PM. Floating Teaching Assistant/After Care Teacher As an essential member of the Rise team, a floating assistant/after care teacher is primarily responsible for ensuring a healthy and safe environment for all children. Throughout the school year, they may be entrusted with additional responsibilities based on their supervisors' requests and assessments of their capabilities. These teachers are exemplary communicators, collaborators, and early childhood experts who teach and care for children of all abilities. Floating Teacher Assistant/After Care Teacher: has experience in a daycare/child care facility, school, or program. Certified in Pediatric CPR and First Aid (or willing to become certified). Please submit your resume and cover letter and/or inquiry to: info@riseschoolcorpus.org. Current Openings Notice of Nondiscriminatory Policy The Rise School of Corpus Christi, in recognition of its responsibilities to its staff, volunteers, and the community it serves, reaffirms its policy to ensure fair and equal treatment in all its employment practices for all persons, regardless of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, or veteran status.