When Behavior Is Really a Cry for Help

At RISE Augusta, we believe every child holds extraordinary potential—sometimes they just need a helping hand. Whether meeting basic needs, delivering early literacy programs, or equipping teens with real-world skills, we invest in students before they become another statistic. Our goal - brighter futures!

When Behavior Is Really a Cry for Help

What the Research Says

The “Matthew Effect” shows that children who fall behind in reading early continue to fall further behind, widening both academic and behavioral gaps over time. 

Parent Tip

Use reading as a calming connection time for your child and you.  Sometimes just 10 quiet minutes with a book helps reset behavior and build trust.

Mary’s Story — When Behavior Gets in the Way of Learning

Frankly, some children can be difficult.  When we met nine-year-old Mary, her behavior overshadowed her potential. Loud, impulsive, and often sent out of class, she insisted she “couldn’t read.”  RISE tutors responded with patience and consistency—offering warmth, encouragement, and a steady routine she could count on.

As Mary began to trust her RISE tutor, her confidence grew. Soon she was making real progress in reading and spelling, and her grades started to rise. She even began looking forward to her sessions with her RISE tutor—eager to learn and excited to share the adventures of her day.

Her behavior shifted, too. Office visits dropped. Instead of standing outside her classroom for disruptions, she started walking with purpose to where she needed to be. It was as if a switch flipped and Mary realized she liked school, and learning mattered to her.

She still has tough days, but now Mary has tools, hope, and confidence in her abilities. That has changed everything.

Your Gift Matters

Your support helps children whose behavior masks deeper struggles.  Please make a year-end gift so more students like Mary can rise—with support, not punishment.