
Explorers
Explorers
Who are Explorers?
Explorers are multilingual and multiethnic youth ages 15-24 who participate in a mentoring program and are provided a paid internship to “explore” the pathway to becoming a teacher in Providence Public Schools.
Providing the Opportunity
Did you know that one barrier to pursuing a degree in education, or youth development, as a low-income student is the practical experience? Many young people struggle with finding the time to do unpaid practicums and internships when they have to work to pay for college and support their families. With support from the Governor’s Workforce Board, Department of Labor and Training, the City of Providence and Real Skills For Youth funding, Inspiring Minds supports 52 youth and young adults annually on their career path.
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Each Explorer receives five hours of 1:1 mentoring with our Workforce Development Coordinator to celebrate successes and address barriers to reach their goal to become a professional in Providence Public Schools. We also provide opportunities for Explorers to gain credentials necessary for employment within the education and youth fields.
The program’s goal is to encourage multilingual and multiethnic youth to work in Providence Public Schools and to add another entry point to the education career pathway that will support an increase in the number of Providence Public School staff that are reflective of the Providence student demographics.
Eligibility
Summer 2023
More information coming soon!
School Year 2022-2023
The Explorers program has three components: work readiness skills training, group mentoring, and a work-based learning experience.
Explorers support Pre-K to grade 5 students in a Providence Public School. They are matched with students in small groups to develop a trusting relationship and to engage in structured activities, often around a classroom or homework-related topic. In addition to 80 hours of paid service learning, Explorers are paid to attend five individual mentoring sessions with the program director and attend a minimum of 20 hours of paid professional development annually.
Explorers must be 18 years old, identify as BIPOC or fluently speak a language that is spoken by students in Providence Public Schools. Explorers must submit to a state background check and be able to commit to a minimum of three hours per week from October 2022 to May 2023. Explorers must reside in Rhode Island and strongly commit to equitable education.
We hire Explorers directly but also have slots for university undergraduates who are eligible for Off-Campus Federal Work-Study. There is space for 30 Explorers in our 2022-2023 school year program.
Ready to apply? Click the “Become an Explorer” tab to be directed to our application.
For more information, please contact us here!