Understand the timeline
Know which decisions and documents are coming, including applications, aid, enrollment, housing, and orientation.
For parents and families
College planning is a family journey. You don’t have to navigate it alone.
The Rainey Day Rising Scholars Program gives families a clearer view of the road ahead—from applications and financial aid to deadlines, decisions, and the transition after graduation.
How we support families
Clear information. Shared responsibility. Fewer surprises.
The program helps families understand the process without taking ownership away from the student.
Navigate college costs
Learn the language of financial aid and compare the full cost of attendance—not tuition alone.
Ask questions early
Bring concerns forward before a missed deadline or unclear requirement becomes a larger problem.
Stay connected
Use family touchpoints and trusted referrals to support your student while they build independence.
A useful family rhythm
One short college check-in each month.
Use these four questions to keep progress visible without making every conversation about college.
What is due next?
Review the closest deadlines and decide what must happen before the next check-in.
Who owns each task?
Separate student responsibilities, family responsibilities, and questions for a school or college.
What feels difficult?
Name the obstacle early and identify the person, information, or resource that could help.
Before enrollment
What families should expect.
A school invitation is the beginning—not the full enrollment process.
Participation requires
- Review of current pilot eligibility and capacity
- Student and parent or guardian consent
- Accurate contact information
- Agreement to program expectations and communication
For enrolled families
Meet PACE.
PACE — Parent Access & Companion Experience — gives approved parents and guardians a secure companion view of program status, parent-visible deadlines, workshops, course completion, and mentor information.
Support without taking over.
PACE is intentionally different from the student portal. Parents can stay informed while scholars keep ownership of their learning, applications, mentor conversations, and private support requests.
PACE access is created by Rising Scholars staff after program approval.
New in PACE
Parent Partner support
Approved PACE parents can request a trained Parent Partner for peer encouragement through the college transition. Experienced parents can also apply to serve.
Take the next step
Have a family question? Start the conversation early.
Review the frequently asked questions or email the program team with a question specific to your student’s situation.