A Call To Action

Message from Principal Brent Kline

​Paly Community Update October 18, 2024
Posted by Palo Alto High on Friday, Oct 18 at 5:00 PM in Palo Alto High

A Call to Support Our Students' Dreams

Dear Palo Alto High School Community,

I am reaching out to you regarding an extraordinary organization that has been transforming the lives of our Paly graduates: Rise Together Education (RTE). As the principal of Paly, I have witnessed firsthand the profound impact this organization has had on our students' futures, and I am compelled to share their mission with you.
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Rise Together Education represents the very best of what our community can achieve when we unite behind a common cause. This remarkable all-volunteer organization has dedicated itself to ensuring that our most economically challenged students not only reach college but succeed there. Through their comprehensive approach of combining financial support with one-on-one mentorship, RTE is creating pathways to success that might otherwise remain closed to many of our graduates.

The statistics speak volumes about RTE's impact:

  • 98% of all funds raised go directly to student scholarships

    1. 78% of RTE scholars graduate college within 4 years

    2. 92% of supported students are students of color

    3. 86% are first-generation college students

    4. Over 60 college students nationwide currently receive support


​Each year, RTE provides scholarships of up to $3,500 per academic year for up to four years to approximately 20 new Paly graduates who have been accepted to either four-year universities or community colleges. However, the vision doesn't stop here. With increased community support, RTE aims to expand both the number of students they can assist and the size of the scholarships they can offer.
This is where you come in. The success of Rise Together Education depends entirely on volunteer dedication and financial contributions from our community. Every dollar contributed helps break down barriers to higher education for our graduates who need it most.

I urge you to consider supporting this vital organization that has become an integral part of our Paly community's commitment to educational equity. You can make a difference by:

  1. Visiting www.RiseTogetherEd.org to learn more or make a contribution

    1. Reaching out to RTE's President, Tida Violante, at info@risetogethered.org to volunteer as a mentor to selected students

    2. Spreading the word about RTE's mission to your networks


Together, we can ensure that every Paly graduate has the opportunity to pursue their dreams of higher education, regardless of their financial circumstances.

Thank you for considering this important cause.

​With Gratitude, 
Brent Kline, Principal