Tiny Desks to Big Dreams: Project RISE is Shaping Early Literacy

Preschool and kindergarten teachers have one of the most important jobs in the world – encouraging the love of learning! They lay the foundation for curiosity, growth, and lifelong learning. 
 
The first five years of a child’s life are critical to their development. During this time, 90% of brain development occurs, and children are introduced to structured education through preschool and kindergarten. 
 
“It’s so important for the educators of young children to have access to professional development that equips them with developmentally appropriate strategies, helping to lay a strong foundation for future learning, both in literacy and in life,” Kristine Luebbe, Director of Programs and Partnerships in the Office of Early Childhood for the Nebraska Department of Education said. 
 
To support Nebraska’s preschool and kindergarten teachers in their essential work, the University of Nebraska at Kearney has partnered with the Nebraska Department of Education to launch Project RISE (Reading Instruction Strategies for Educators). This initiative, funded through a $970,000 NDE grant, aims to provide educators with the tools, knowledge, and confidence to transform early literacy and language instruction to improve student outcomes. 
 
“We are thrilled to partner with NDE to offer Nebraska teachers free tuition, or stipend, recognizing their profound impact on shaping the next generation,” said Dr. Megan Adkins, Associate Dean of Graduate Studies and Academic Innovation. “This project wouldn’t be possible without the collaborative efforts of bet36365体育’s faculty and staff and the NDE team.”

What Project RISE Offers

Project RISE is open to preschool and kindergarten teachers, assistant teachers, paras, and instructional coaches in public schools and HeadStart classrooms. Through this initiative, participants will receive:

• 50 hours of synchronous and asynchronous coursework to fit their schedules.
• Access to an additional 400+ hours of high-quality classroom tools and strategies.
• Tuition-free graduate (6 credit hours) or undergraduate (7 credit hours) credit from bet36365体育 or a $1,000 stipend as compensation for their commitment. 

Flexible and Accessible

Dr. Adkins, a former public school teacher herself, understands the challenges of balancing a busy teaching schedule with a healthy work-life balance.  
 
“We deeply appreciate NDE’s commitment to supporting teachers through this grant and the time educators invest in shaping the future, inspiring young minds and building a foundation for lifelong learning and success,” Dr. Adkins said. “I also appreciate their dedication to making this opportunity flexible enough to fit into their busy schedules.” 
 
The course opens in January 2025, offering educators the customization to begin their coursework at any time and progress at their own pace. To maximize flexibility, teachers have until January 2026 to complete the program and earn credit or a stipend. This design ensures participants can balance their professional development with classroom responsibilities and personal commitments. 

RISE to the Occasion

If you’re ready to elevate your teaching and inspire a generation of lifelong learners, bet36365体育 invites you to join Project RISE by completing the online form. 
 
To learn more about the program, contact Karla Rohde, Credentialing, Data, and Strategic Partnership Specialist at rohdek@xyschool.net, or Megan Adkins, Associate Dean of Graduate Studies and Academic Innovation at adkinsmm@xyschool.net.