LA School Co-Founder Helps Underserved Students Succeed

Erin Whalen's passion for education transforms lives at Da Vinci RISE High School

Published on Feb. 22, 2026

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Erin Whalen, the Assistant Superintendent of Student Services for the Da Vinci Schools Network, has co-founded a unique school called Da Vinci RISE High that serves students facing hardships like housing instability, foster care, and probation. The school provides a flexible learning schedule, real-world projects, and dedicated staff to help these underserved students navigate obstacles and reach their full potential.

Why it matters

Da Vinci RISE High was specifically created to support students who have historically been underserved by the education system. By providing a tailored environment and resources, the school aims to empower these students and give them the tools to change their lives and communities.

The details

Da Vinci RISE High offers students a flexible learning schedule, hands-on projects that expose them to different career paths, and a staff dedicated to understanding each student's unique needs and helping them succeed. The school was founded after Whalen and his team won a nationwide challenge to create a new school model for underserved students.

  • Da Vinci RISE High was founded in 2021 after winning the XQ Super Schools challenge.
  • Whalen has been the Assistant Superintendent of Student Services for the Da Vinci Schools Network since 2019.

The players

Erin Whalen

The Assistant Superintendent of Student Services for the Da Vinci Schools Network, who co-founded Da Vinci RISE High School to serve underserved students.

Naomi Lara

The Principal of Da Vinci RISE High School, which was founded to support students at the margins of the education system.

Diane Feldman

The Theatrical Director at Da Vinci RISE High, who praises Whalen's dedication to highlighting the potential in every student.

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What they’re saying

“I think education is the perfect vantage point to support a person in actualizing who they are and truly becoming the best version of themselves.”

— Erin Whalen, Assistant Superintendent of Student Services, Da Vinci Schools Network (nbclosangeles.com)

“RISE was originally founded to serve students at the margins. Every student has a group of trusted adults that know who they are. We get to learn their needs, their triggers, their passions, their interests, and we get to provide an environment where they feel like they can belong.”

— Naomi Lara, Principal, Da Vinci RISE High School (nbclosangeles.com)

“He looks out for every student and particularly the ones who don't believe in themselves. He finds a way to highlight their potential and their capability, and it happens. He means joy. He means heart. He is the epitome of what a human being should be.”

— Diane Feldman, Theatrical Director, Da Vinci RISE High School (nbclosangeles.com)

What’s next

Da Vinci RISE High School plans to continue expanding its model to serve more underserved students in the Los Angeles area.

The takeaway

By creating a school specifically designed to support students facing significant challenges, Erin Whalen and the Da Vinci RISE High team are demonstrating how education can be a powerful tool for empowering marginalized youth and transforming lives.