Unlike outside cyber charter schools, RISE students remain Windber students. They:

• Participate in graduation ceremonies

• Compete in athletics

• Join clubs and activities

• Access Windber counseling and administrative support

Your child does not become a number in a statewide system — they remain part of a local school community that knows them.

Outside cyber schools often rely heavily on independent pacing. RISE includes:

• Required live instructional sessions

• Weekly wellness check-ins with homeroom teachers

• Ongoing progress monitoring

• A structured tiered support system if attendance or coursework becomes a concern

If a student struggles, the district intervenes early — with structured plans, required lab attendance if necessary, and direct family communication.

That level of oversight protects students from falling behind.

One of the most important differences between RISE and outside cybers is access to the RISE Lab, located right on campus.

Students can:

• Receive help with assignments

• Meet with staff for support

• Collaborate with peers

• Complete required in-person sessions if needed

Outside cyber schools cannot offer local, in-building support like this.

RISE provides scheduling flexibility, but students are still expected to meet Pennsylvania attendance standards and district expectations.  

This balance ensures students:

• Stay on track for graduation

• Maintain academic integrity

• Develop responsibility and time-management skills

• Avoid the disengagement that can happen in less structured cyber environments