A Unique and Exciting Curriculum

The Beacon Charter School first opened in the fall of 2003. At Beacon we offer a unique and exciting education concept by combining a secondary-level college prep program with an arts and business program that focuses on three divisions: visual, performing, and culinary arts.

In 2005 Beacon Charter developed a strong partnership with Johnson and Wales University, experts in Business and Culinary Arts career/tech education. At that same time, Beacon also hired Robert Pilkington to redesign the school's academic and financial structures and to author the amendments needed to reopen the school. Robert is Rhode Island's most knowledgeable charter school authority, long time charter advocate and Past President and founder of the Rhode Island League of Charter Schools.

Why Beacon is "College Prep" as well as "Arts Based"

In 2008 the State Board of Regents awarded to Beacon a Regents Approved Diploma. At that time we were the only high school in the northern region to offer this type of degree. To earn this recognition Beacon had to offer a program of study that met all high school graduation and college acceptance requirements, plus have the students complete their senior project and keep an electronic portfolio.

At Beacon, all the English, math, science, history, technology and foreign language courses needed to go to any college or university are offered to Beacon students. In addition, there are many, many electives and one quarter of the day is dedicated to each student practicing their art in an art class.

Our students continue to apply to and gain acceptance to top colleges and universities. To see a complete list please click here .

What is a Charter High School?

Charter schools are public schools. They are authorized by the State of Rhode Island to operate independently from many state and local district rules and regulations. As a result of this flexibility, charter school operations are allowed to pursue innovative educational strategies designed to meet specific student achievement goals and the objectives stated in their charter. Charter schools are publicly-funded, therefore they are tuition free. Beacon's niche is arts/college prep/business wrapped together in a very unique career and tech school.

For more information on charter schools, visit the links below:

Rhode Island Department of Education
http://www.ride.ri.gov/commissioner/charterschools

The Rhode Island League of Charter Schools
http://www.richarterschools.com

For more information about charter schools:

Robert Pilkington - Principal
Beacon Charter High School for the Arts
320 Main St.
Woonsocket, RI 02895
Rob's personal cell: 401-378-7007
email: workprep@aol.com