About the Rise Center for Success
The Rise Center for Success, formerly the Special Education Division of Champlain Valley Educational Services (CVES), represents a long-standing commitment to supporting students with diverse learning needs across the region.
CVES has served component school districts since its establishment in 1949, with the Special Education Division developing over time to meet the needs of students requiring more individualized and intensive support. As expectations for inclusive, student-centered education evolved, so too did the division’s approach, expanding beyond traditional models to better support the whole child.
Throughout the 1990s and early 2000s, programs continued to grow in both scope and purpose, incorporating a stronger emphasis on communication, social-emotional development, and functional life skills alongside academics. This period marked a shift toward more comprehensive, multidisciplinary support, grounded in collaboration with families, districts, and related service providers.
In the last decade, the division deepened its focus on evidence-based practices, trauma-responsive approaches, and positive school culture. Ongoing staff development and cross-disciplinary collaboration have strengthened the ability to meet the increasingly complex and individualized needs of students in meaningful and responsive ways.
This continued growth led to an important and intentional redefinition of identity. In 2023, the Special Education Division was renamed the Rise Center for Success, a name that reflects both where the organization has been and where it is going.
“Rise” represents progress, possibility, and the belief that every student has the capacity to grow, achieve, and succeed. The shift in name signals a broader vision: one that moves beyond defining students by services and instead focuses on strengths, potential, and outcomes that matter.
Today, the Rise Center for Success remains grounded in its history while looking forward with purpose. It is a place where students are supported not only academically, but also socially and emotionally – where growth is recognized, independence is encouraged, and success is defined in meaningful, individualized ways.
The Rise Center for Success aligns with the mission, vision, and core beliefs of Champlain Valley Educational Services, grounding our work in a shared commitment to excellence, collaboration, and student success.
Rise Center Mission, Vision and Core Beliefs
Mission
Champlain Valley Educational Services is committed to being a valued and trusted partner by supporting students, schools, and communities to excel through high-quality education, training, and shared services.
Vision
We aspire to be the premier provider of dynamic and innovative educational programs and shared services, serving as a catalyst for personal and regional growth and development towards a brighter global future.
Core Beliefs
- Students are our first priority.
- Staff are essential to the health and well-being of our organization.
- We value open and honest communication.
- We embrace collaboration and shared decision-making.
- We promote creativity and innovation.
- ALL students can learn and be successful.
- We lead and act with integrity, fostering respect for all by ensuring the acceptance, inclusion, and celebration of our community members.
- Students, family and community are valued partners for success.
- We ensure a safe, supportive learning and work environment.
- We all impact the educational process and are dedicated to perform at the highest possible levels.