Highlander Charter School
Highlander Charter School supports young people through paid classroom experience, teacher mentorship, and opportunities for college credit to help them explore education careers.
Funder: Rhode Island Department of Labor and Training
Due Dates: February–December 2026 (Program period)
Funding Amounts: Paid classroom work-based learning; college credit available through the University of Rhode Island
Summary: Highlander Charter School helps young people explore education careers through paid classroom experience and mentorship.
Key Information: For youth ages 16–18 statewide.
Description
Highlander Charter School offers this Real Skills for Youth program with support from Rhode Island’s Governor’s Workforce Board and Department of Labor and Training. Participants gain paid, hands-on classroom experience working with students and learning from mentor teachers. The program is intended to build professional skills and confidence while helping young people explore careers in early childhood education, youth development, and teaching or teaching assistance.
Through a partnership with the University of Rhode Island, participants can earn college credit while still in high school. They also have the opportunity to take free practice Praxis exams; participants choosing the teaching-assistant pathway may receive a teaching-assistant certificate.
