LEXINGTON, Ky. — Rise STEM Academy for Girls has become the first school in Kentucky to earn certification from the National Institute for STEM Education, recognizing the school's commitment to innovative instruction and student outcomes in science, technology, engineering and mathematics.

The achievement culminated a year-long certification process that challenged school leaders to examine every aspect of operations, from classroom instruction to community partnerships. Seven Rise teachers earned individual STEM certifications during the process: Mary Thom Adams, Sydney Arnold, Lilly Frazier, Heidi Jack, Namkyung Joh, Trista Keene, and Jamie Kubiak.

Rise STEM Academy for Girls, a magnet school serving kindergarten through eighth grade at 2420 Spurr Road, was launched by Fayette County Public Schools in 2020-21 to build confidence in girls pursuing STEM careers. The school uses a lottery system and targets economically disadvantaged girls of color for enrollment.

Principal Cynthia Bruno said the national designation validates the daily work happening in classrooms. "This process challenged us to examine every aspect of our school — from instruction and project-based learning to student opportunities, community partnerships, and systems that prepare girls to lead in STEM fields," she said in a statement.

The National Institute for STEM Education certifies teachers, campuses, and districts in STEM teaching through a competency-based program that requires educators to demonstrate proficiency across 15 STEM teacher actions. Only about 2 percent of schools nationwide hold NISE certification, making Rise's achievement particularly noteworthy.

The recognition comes as Rise continues to expand. The school is scheduled to move into a new building with 900-student capacity at the intersection of Mason Headley and Versailles Road in fall 2026, part of plans to expand the program.