About us

Welcome to YouthBuild Preparatory Academy!

Step into a world of innovative education at YouthBuild Preparatory Academy, a state-authorized public high school committed to redefining the future of learning. While our doors are open to all students, our focus is on nurturing boys and young men of color, providing them with an educational experience that resonates with their unique needs and aspirations.

At the heart of our mission is a balanced approach that intertwines rigorous academics, career pathway exploration, and the nurturing of social and emotional wellness. We ensure that all our students, without exception, meet the Rhode Island Graduation requirements through our competency-based model. This model is tailored to embrace every student’s individual journey, recognizing that ‘all’ truly means ‘everyone.’

Our academy is an ideal destination for students transitioning from middle schools, those seeking a change from their current high school environment, as well as for over-aged and under-credited students who aspire to accelerate their graduation timeline. We provide more than just a high school diploma; we offer a pathway to valuable workforce skills through our Community Development Academy. This unique blend of academic and practical learning prepares our students not just for graduation, but for life beyond school, equipped with knowledge, skills, and a sense of purpose.

Join us at YouthBuild Preparatory Academy, where we don’t just educate; we empower and inspire, ensuring every student is poised for success and ready to make a meaningful impact in the world.  Simply put, Enter to Learn, Depart to Serve.

Our funding

YouthBuild Preparatory Academy’s impactful journey is made possible through the support of a diverse range of funding sources. We are profoundly grateful for the state and local tuition dollars that form the backbone of our financial resources, ensuring we can continue offering exceptional educational experiences.

Our efforts are further bolstered by the generous contributions from esteemed organizations such as:

  • Charter School Growth Fund
  • Nellie Mae Education Foundation
  • Rhode Island Foundation
  • Papitto Opportunity Connection
  • U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration
  • YouthBuild USA, AmeriCorps

Each of these partners plays a crucial role in our mission, enabling us to provide unparalleled educational services and to champion the cause of educational equity and excellence.

Our Network of Organizations

YouthBuild USA

YouthBuild Preparatory Academy is an affiliate of YouthBuild USA, a national non-profit organization dedicated to helping low-income young people become educated, productive adults in their communities. We are one of roughly 226 YouthBuild programs, nationally.

AmeriCorps

YouthBuild Preparatory Academy is supported by AmeriCorps National. All YouthBuild Providence students are considered for the awarded quarter-time AmeriCorps slots.

Department of Labor

YouthBuild Preparatory Academy is made possible through funding from the US Department of Labor, Employment & Training Administration.

YouthBuild Preparatory Academy is an equal opportunity employer/program and auxiliary aids and services are available upon request to individuals with disabilities.