Providence Continues Its Commitment to Modernizing Educational Facilities

February 13, 2025

PROVIDENCE, RI — The Providence Public School District (PPSD) hosted a ribbon cutting and tour today at Classical High School, unveiling major renovations that will benefit current and future generations of students. With $33.2 million in state support, the $40 million project brings much-needed upgrades to the historic school, ensuring a safe, modern, and accessible learning environment.

Attendees included Rhode Island Department of Education (RIDE) Commissioner Angélica Infante-Green, Mayor Brett Smiley, Superintendent Dr. Javier Montañez, and members of the Providence School Board, City Council, and community leaders, all of whom recognized the importance of this milestone in providing world-class education for all students.

“For more than 50 years, Classical High School has gone without significant upgrades. Today, we mark a new chapter, ensuring students have a learning environment that meets 21st-century standards,” said Commissioner Angélica Infante-Green. “This renovation is a symbol of our commitment to equity, excellence, and student success across Providence.”

“Classical High School has long been a symbol of academic excellence in Providence,” said Superintendent Dr. Javier Montañez. “These renovations ensure that we continue that legacy while creating an inclusive environment where every student can thrive. This is just one step in our broader mission to transform education across the city.”

“This ribbon cutting marks a major milestone for Classical High School,” said Principal Scott Barr. “With these renovations, we’re providing our students with a state-of-the-art learning environment that supports their academic growth, wellness, and future success. It’s an exciting new chapter for our entire school community.”

Key improvements at Classical High School include:

• Educational Enhancements:

  • A new media center with advanced technology to support modern learning.

  • An ADA-compliant special education suite and life-skills room for students with cognitive and physical disabilities.

  • Spacious classrooms equipped with Assistive Technology (AT) features for wheelchair accessibility.

• Student Wellness and Safety:

  • A secure vestibule entrance to enhance safety.

  • Upgraded HVAC systems for better air quality.

  • A new girls’ locker room and health suite.

  • A media lab designed for collaboration between students, teachers, and the broader community.

  • A recently added turf field that supports six sports, promoting student engagement and wellness.

RIDE, PPSD, and the City of Providence are committed to creating more modern, high-quality learning spaces across the District. The new Classical High School renovations are part of PPSD’s ambitious $1 billion school facilities plan that will help create enough high quality facilities so that all students have the opportunity to learn in a new or “like-new” school by 2030. This follows the opening of four new or like-new school buildings in the last two school years with the support of the state. It follows the recent groundbreaking of other schools across the District, including the Fogarty Pre-K-8 Campus,Kizirian PK-8, and Spaziano Middle School demonstrating PPSD’s dedication to transforming education in Providence. 

Providence Public Schools is committed to providing a world-class education for all students, preparing them for success in college, career, and life.   

For more information about Providence Public Schools, visit www.providenceschools.org. Follow Providence Public Schools on Facebook, X (@pvdschools), or Instagram (@pvdschools) for timely updates. 

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