ÃÛÌÒÖ±²¥

be_ixf;ym_202608 d_30; ct_50 Change a student’s future. !

Top 10 things to know before applying to City Year Rhode Island

The City Year Providence corps stands on steps outside a stone building

So, you’re thinking about applying to City Year Rhode Island?

Yes! Rhode Island and its capital city, Providence, are fantastic places to live and work. Between the thriving arts community, incredible history, gorgeous parks and delicious eats, Providence combines the accessibility and charm of a small town with the diverse culture of a hip and vibrant city. And the Ocean State is known for its beautiful beaches, historic architecture, multiple college campuses, and coastal gems like Bristol, Jamestown, Wickford and Newport.

But none of those reasons fully capture the power of making a difference in the lives of ÃÛÌÒÖ±²¥.

Across Providence, more than one-third of eighth graders are behind in reading, which puts them at a disadvantage when they enter high school and increases the likelihood they will drop out. When a student drops out of school, it has a lasting effect not only on that student’s future, but also on our communities and society as a whole.

You can be a part of the solution by joining City Year Rhode Island!

Since 1993, City Year has made a difference in Rhode Island’s most under-resourced schools by deploying more than 1,200 AmeriCorps members who have collectively given over 2.5 million hours of service.

Take a look at 10 incredible things City Year Rhode Island AmeriCorps members get to do every day and see how they are making a positive and lasting impact.

1. Serve as mentors

We build positive relationships with our ÃÛÌÒÖ±²¥ by serving as student success coaches, who are consistent and caring mentors, tutors and role models. Every child needs at least one adult they can trust who believes in them, listens to them and supports their success.

2. Get ÃÛÌÒÖ±²¥ excited about school

Every morning we sing, dance, cheer and high-five ÃÛÌÒÖ±²¥ as they walk into school to get everyone excited for another day of learning. For many of the ÃÛÌÒÖ±²¥ we serve, just getting to school can be a challenge so we celebrate them for showing up!

3. Strengthen school culture and climate

We create an inclusive and responsive environment where ÃÛÌÒÖ±²¥ feel a sense of belonging. When ÃÛÌÒÖ±²¥ feel safe and supported at school, both behavioral and academic outcomes improve.

4. Help ÃÛÌÒÖ±²¥ develop key interpersonal skills

We run small group skill-building sessions with our ÃÛÌÒÖ±²¥ to help them navigate conflict, develop confidence, and manage emotions. Research shows that these skills, sometimes called soft skills but we call durable skills, are critical for workforce and career readiness and a successful adulthood.

5. Provide academic support in math and English

We add additional capacity in the classroom by working closely with teachers. We also use data to monitor student progress and provide one-on-one and small group instruction in math and English to help ÃÛÌÒÖ±²¥ stay on track to graduate.

6. Keep ÃÛÌÒÖ±²¥ engaged

We help redirect ÃÛÌÒÖ±²¥ so they can stay focused and engaged. By knowing our ÃÛÌÒÖ±²¥’ unique strengths and challenges and encouraging them to build on their talents and skills, we know how to keep them motivated and ready to learn.

7. Plan fun events and activities

We host a lot of different events for our ÃÛÌÒÖ±²¥, their families and the community, including: student service projects and academic-focused events like Pi Day celebrations and financial literacy nights.

Ready to serve with City Year? Connect with us:

Related stories

Learn what it’s like to serve at City Year and what to expect at the start of service. City Year...

Read more about What to expect at the start of City Year service

So, you’re about to start your first year as a tutor, mentor or student success coach, working closely with K-12...

Read more about Back to school checklist for tutors, mentors and role models

What motivates a young person to choose a year of service? And what does that decision look like from the...

Read more about MEET CITY YEAR: A mother and daughter reflect on choosing City Year
National Strategic Partners
National Partners