At Seneca High School, character education isn’t just a concept—it’s a movement. RISE, a student-driven initiative aimed at promoting accountability, kindness, and strong attendance, has been shaping the school culture for three years. Led by teacher Blake Slutz and originally co-founded with history teacher Kelsey Adams, the program challenges students to meet high standards while offering meaningful incentives along the way.

RISE isn’t an acronym. Instead, the name reflects the program’s goal: encouraging students to rise to their full potential, both academically and personally. The idea was developed by former superintendent Dr. Carlson, current superintendent Dr. Stecken, and a team of administrators who wanted to create a program that would foster positive behaviors and strengthen school culture. With Blake’s prior experience in character education programs, he and Mr. Adams built RISE into what it is today.

Now in its third year, RISE is a fully established part of Seneca High School, with more than a hundred students meeting the high standards required for membership.

For juniors Lauren Thomas and Chris Smith, the program has become a defining part of their high school experience. Both have been involved since its inception and have seen firsthand how it motivates students to be their best selves.

RISE is built around a clear set of expectations. Each semester, students qualify based on data-driven criteria: grades, attendance, and behavior. Originally, GPA played a role in qualification, but the team recognized that academic success looks different for every student. Instead of a GPA requirement, the focus shifted to effort, work ethic, and personal responsibility. A student doesn’t need straight A’s to be part of RISE—they just need to show up, work hard, and be accountable.

For Lauren, the program is about more than just rewards. While students who qualify can participate in activities like field trips, special breakfasts, and small perks such as free coffee from the RISE Café, she believes the real benefits come in the form of personal growth.

“RISE encourages students to engage more with school,” she says. “It’s not just about earning a trip or a treat—it’s about realizing that by showing up, by doing your best, you’re setting yourself up for success.”

Chris sees it as a way to reinforce the values that already exist at Seneca High School.

“Seneca has always had great students, great teachers, and a strong sense of community,” he says. “RISE just builds on that. It pushes people to aim higher—to be kinder, to take more responsibility, to be present. It’s like an extra level of encouragement to keep doing what makes our school a great place.”

Blake agrees, noting that RISE has a measurable impact on school culture. The program doesn’t just recognize top achievers—it gives every student a reason to work toward something positive. Those who meet the qualifications receive not just incentives but acknowledgment and encouragement from staff and peers.

The program also includes all-school events that promote a sense of unity. From pancake breakfasts during Homecoming Week to simple acts like giving out donuts to early arrivals, the message is clear: being engaged in school matters.

For Lauren and Chris, the most memorable moments of RISE haven’t been about the rewards themselves, but about the shared experiences. Lauren recalls a rainy field trip to a pumpkin patch, where students laughed through the mud, enjoying the time together despite the weather.

Chris, deeply involved in FFA and agriculture, has found that the program strengthens relationships across different groups in the school. “It’s a way to connect with people you might not have interacted with otherwise,” he says. “It builds community.”

When asked what "The Seneca Way" means to them, both students see it as an extension of what RISE represents.

Lauren describes it as a deep-rooted commitment from teachers and staff to support students in every way possible. “The passion our teachers have for programs like RISE makes it easy for students to buy in. You feel like you’re part of something bigger.”

Chris sees it as a foundation for success beyond high school. He plans to continue working in agriculture, attending Joliet Junior College for Ag Production Management before returning to help manage his family’s farm. The lessons of accountability, responsibility, and work ethic that RISE reinforces will stay with him.

Blake believes the program’s success is tied to the values that Seneca High School has always stood for.

“RISE isn’t about making students something they’re not—it’s about bringing out the best in who they already are.”