Today we learn. Tomorrow we lead.

Letter from our Executive Director

BVP Parent, Giovanni Disus, addressing the crowd at the Protect HOPE Rally.

       Recently we were elated to learn that out of 17 schools across the state, two Blackstone Valley Prep (BVP) schools received a Commended rating by the Rhode Island Department of Education for the 2014-15 school year. Our high school, which is also the only high school in the state to be commended, and Elementary School 2, are the only two schools on the list to serve a majority of low-income students. You can read more here.  We couldn't be more proud of our staff, scholars and families for once again proving that demographics do not define destiny and that zip code need not determine one's educational opportunities.  

       In recent weeks, we have had even more to celebrate. Our chess teams saw great success in the state championships and we sent the youngest competitor ever, at eight years old, to the state spelling bee. While we have much to celebrate, our successes are not without challenges. Since opening, our public funding has been under attack and securing facilities has been an ongoing challenge...but we're not giving up.

       At BVP, we prove what is possible for all kids. The work we do is urgent and underscores that closing the achievement gap is possible. Despite our achievements, results, and joyful schools, we continue to meet opposition.

       So, what can you do?

       We need your voice now more than ever, so we implore you to become an advocate for BVP. If you are willing to explore how you can proactively support our school, reach out to me at jchiappetta@blackstonevalleyprep.org. A member of our leadership team or myself can meet with you over coffee for a one-on-one conversation about what your role can be in protecting our school. 

       Thank you for standing with us as we take on this uphill battle. Know that we will continue to stand firm and that we are grateful for you doing the same. To those of you who joined us earlier this week for the Protect Hope rally, thank you. We appreciate you coming and representing BVP. (For more on the rally, click here for the Providence Journal's coverage of the event.)

Sincerely,
 
Jeremy Chiappetta
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Read our Blog - BVP Musings
Follow our weekly blog, BVP Musings, to read insights from our staff and featured guests. Here is a sampling of some recent posts including one penned by a middle school scholar.
Community Breakfast
On Friday, March 11th, over 35 community stakeholders, including business owners and elected officials, joined parents, teachers, and scholars at Blackstone Valley Prep for a morning of networking, learning, and a taste of Elementary School 2's Community Circle!

The majority of our guests were with us for the very first time. They had the opportunity to hear BVP's Executive Director tell our story as well as hear direct testimony from parents and scholars about their experience as members of the Blackstone Valley Prep family. 

To read more, click here. 
 
BVP in the news!
ProjoEditorial: R.I.'s elite schools
Last month the Providence Journal published an editorial in reaction to the 17 schools who were named Commended throughout the state, including BVP High School and Elementary School 2. The article highlights how BVP represents the only two schools out of 17 to serve a majority of low-income students. 

To read the article click here.
 
Upcoming Events
For Art's Sake: Scholar Art Show & Artisan Fair
On Saturday, April 2nd, 
BVP will be hosting its annual scholar art show. The event provides the opportunity for every BVP scholar from grades Kindergarten through 10 to proudly display their artwork. The event is free, open to the public, and will be held at Elementary School 2 (52 Broad Street, Cumberland) from 10 am to 3 pm. In addition to scholar artwork, the event will feature creation stations, a scholar sponsored snack booth, and over 20 artisan vendors selling a variety of artwork. 
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Our opening reception, to be held the evening before the scholar art show on Friday, April 1st from 6-9 pm, will collect proceeds to underwrite Saturday's free scholar art show for families and the greater community. The reception will be held at Mad Dog Art Studio & Gallery in Pawtucket. 

You can purchase tickets for the evening reception online by clicking here and
specifying in the notes that your donation has been made to purchase a ticket. Tickets are available with a $35 per ticket minimum donation. The event will include a silent auction, food, drink, and a brief program.

For more information, click here.
BVP 5K Run, Walk, and Kids PRIDE Fun Run
We hope you can join us for the 4th Annual BVP 5K Run, Walk, and Kids PRIDE Fun Run on May 15th! Our annual 5K is an opportunity for the scholars and families of our diverse community to spend a day with staff and the greater community. Our 5K also supports BVP's growing athletic program!

This year we have moved to a new venue! Join us as we transition this much anticipated event to Slater Park in Pawtucket. We also encourage you to share this event with family and friends. Not only can they come to support you as you participate in the 5K, but this event also features a Health & Wellness Village with fun for the whole family including activities, crafts, and much more!

To register as a 5K participant, click here. 

For more information, click here.


We're looking for sponsors!

There are a multitude of opportunities for supporting our 5K. We invite you or your business to consider doing so as a corporate sponsor. 


If you would like to discuss these opportunities with us, e-mail or call Jennifer LoPiccolo at jlopiccolo@blackstonevalleyprep.org or 401.871.6259.
 
Support Blackstone Valley Prep
An investment in the future of our scholars...
With your support, we have committed to preparing our scholars for college and the world beyond. Preparing scholars for what the world will be tomorrow requires introducing innovations today.


To learn more about how you can donate click the button to visit our donate page. 
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