Rhode Island Education Collective Awards $70,000 in Grants to Support Summer Programs, Dual Language Educators, and Early College Pathways for High School Seniors
Providence, RI - Rhode Island Education Collective was proud to provide over $70,000 in direct support grants to partner organizations throughout the state. These strategic investments promote educational equity and build a stronger, more inclusive public education system. Six grantees received awards to support with educator recruitment, broaden access to college courses for high school seniors, and enhance professional development.
Nuestro Mundo Public Charter School received funding to support biliteracy training for dual language educators across both traditional and charter public schools in Rhode Island.
“Dual language education is central to our mission at the Collective because it promotes equity, honors cultural and linguistic diversity, and prepares all students, especially multilingual learners, to thrive in a global society,” said Rhode Island Education Collective founder and CEO Victor Capellan. “It’s not just about learning two languages; it’s about opening doors to opportunity, identity, and connection.”
Biliteracy workshop facilitator and Nuestro Mundo board member Dr. Laura Hamman-Ortiz shared that understanding bilingualism is central to effective and equitable instruction.
“Developing an understanding of biliteracy is essential for all teachers who work with multilingual learners (MLLs), especially those in dual language bilingual programs,” said Dr. Hamman-Ortiz. “During the Biliteracy Institute, we explored a wide range of strategies for cultivating reading, writing, and oracy skills across languages and considered how to put culturally responsive teaching into practice. It was truly inspiring to have over 40 teachers choose to spend a day of their summer with us at the Biliteracy Institute - we had representation from teachers at all grade levels, in both public and public charter schools, and who work in different program models for serving MLLs.”
We are honored to work alongside innovative partners making a meaningful difference and further empowering student leadership.
“Nuestro Mundo seeks to partner with all organizations supporting dual language education (DLE). DLE is a highly equitable way to support MLLs and all students for high academic achievement and sociocultural competence. There is also an urgency for educators to know the unique strategies and current research on the best DLE methods of instruction. All dual language educators need to share knowledge and support each other for the success of our students. The workshop was an awesome opportunity to network and share best DLE practices. We loved it and hope to do more sessions in the near future!”
- Katie Cardamone, Nuestro Mundo Executive Director.
PVD Prep received funding to support educator recruitment efforts. This investment will help attract and retain passionate, high-quality teachers committed to delivering excellent, equitable education for all students. Together, we’re building stronger schools and brighter futures.
RILCPS/Highlander received funding to support leadership development at Highlander Charter School. This grant will enhance core Executive Director functions—providing strategic leadership and professional development. Strong leadership fuels strong schools, and we’re proud to invest in Highlander’s continued growth and sustainability.
Refugee Youth Solidarity through Education (Camp RYSE) received funding to support its Teacher Mentor role, a critical position that provides classroom guidance, staff training, and culturally responsive teaching. From curriculum development to restorative practices, this leader ensures that every student receives a high-quality, affirming experience.
“Camp RYSE is a free five-week summer program for refugee youth in Providence. It’s an incredible opportunity for students with shared life experiences to come together for the summer and continue their learning experience outside of school,” said Camp RYSE Executive Director Sunni Ryan. “We’re incredibly grateful to Rhode Island Education Collective for supporting our program two years in a row now. In particular, in supporting our academic portion of camp. One of the things we’re really grateful for is that we’re able to bring in a professional educator to our program. This individual, our teacher mentor, is able to help our summer educators and adapt the curriculum to make sure we’re meeting every student at their literacy level and meet the needs they’re coming to camp with every single day.”
Providence Promise received funding to expand community engagement through events like the Parent Meet & Greet, Parent-Led Picnic, and Multicultural Night. These gatherings foster connection and celebrate the rich diversity of families united by a shared commitment to education.
New England Institute of Technology received funding to support 15 Providence Public School District seniors in the Early College Program. This funding will help cover the cost of books, supplies, and other essentials, removing financial barriers so students can earn college credit and build momentum toward future success.
About Rhode Island Education Collective
Rhode Island Education Collective is a newly established non-profit whose mission is to ensure that every child in our state can go to a great public school. It brings together students, families, educators, and community members who are passionate about improving our education system to collaborate on solutions that will have a lasting positive impact.
The Collective is eager to bring more people who care about Rhode Island’s schools into the conversation. To get involved and learn more, follow the Collective on Instagram, Facebook and LinkedIn. Sign up to receive information about future events.
