How One Providence School Is Redefining Middle School Education

In a city that runs on community, one Providence school is teaching students how to build it from the ground up. At Community Preparatory School, that idea doesn’t sit on a poster somewhere. It shows up in the day to day, in how students talk to each other, how they handle conflict, and how they start to see their place in the world.

Since 1984, the independent middle school has stayed small by design but big in impact. What started with just a handful of students has grown into a tight knit community serving grades 4 through 8, bringing together kids from different backgrounds and asking them to learn from each other as much as they learn from their textbooks. Founder Dan Corley puts it simply. “We work carefully to ensure that no single race or ethnicity becomes the majority of the student body,” a choice that helps shape a more balanced and inclusive environment.

That mix is part of the point. Community Prep doesn’t treat academic rigor and accessibility as opposing forces. Nearly 90 percent of students receive substantial financial aid, yet outcomes stay strong. Most graduates move on to competitive college preparatory high schools, and many continue on to college, a track record that feels earned rather than advertised.

Inside the classroom, things feel a little different too. The school is rooted in Kingian Nonviolence, which sounds big, but in practice, it’s pretty grounded. Students learn how to slow down, listen, and work through challenges together. The philosophy shows up in real time, whether that’s in a classroom discussion or a conflict between classmates. “At Community Prep, many of our staff members have completed training in restorative justice practices,” says Social Worker and Social Emotional Learning teacher Dr. Alexa Faria. “These approaches focus on repairing harm and rebuilding relationships.”

That emphasis on reflection carries into how students see themselves. Through writing, discussion, and even opportunities like the MAXCourage Essay Contest, they’re encouraged to think about what courage and leadership actually look like in their own lives. In the classroom, those conversations keep evolving. “By eighth grade, students explore how these principles could shape leadership and public policy,” explains eighth grade history teacher Joseph Gortè, pointing to the bigger picture behind the lessons.

There’s a rhythm to it all. High expectations, steady support, and a sense that what happens here doesn’t stay here. More than 40 years in, that ripple effect is easy to spot. With over 1,000 alumni, many former students stay connected to Rhode Island, showing up in classrooms, offices, and community spaces across the state. For families trying to picture what middle school can look like when it’s done with intention, Community Prep offers a clear example. Learn more online at communityprep.org.