Classical High School

1. General Information

About Classical High School

Classical High School, located in Providence, Rhode Island, is a public secondary institution renowned for its rigorous academic programs and commitment to student success. Established in 1845, it stands as one of the oldest public high schools in the United States. The school serves grades 9 through 12 and is part of the Providence Public School District. Classical High School offers a comprehensive curriculum that includes Advanced Placement (AP) courses, honors classes, and a variety of extracurricular activities, fostering a well-rounded educational experience. The school’s mission is to provide a challenging and supportive environment that prepares students for college and careers, emphasizing critical thinking, creativity, and civic responsibility.

Contact Information

  • Address: 770 Westminster Street, Providence, RI 02903
  • Phone Number: (401) 456-9145
  • Fax Number: (401) 456-9155
  • Email: scott.barr@ppsd.org (Principal)
  • Website: classical.providenceschools.org

School Facts

CategoryDetails
Founding Year1845
Grade Levels9–12
School TypePublic High School
DistrictProvidence Public School District
School ColorsPurple and White
MascotNot specified

Classical High School Rankings

CategoryRanking
State Rank1st in Rhode Island
National Rank166th in the United States
Best Public High Schools in RI2nd out of 59
Best College Prep Public High Schools in RI1st out of 58
Best High Schools for Athletes in RI5th out of 68

2. Academics

Classical High School Faculties / Departments

  • English Language Arts
  • Mathematics
  • Science
  • Social Studies
  • World Languages
  • Fine Arts
  • Physical Education
  • Special Education
  • Guidance and Counseling

Classical High School Courses and Programs / Majors

  • Advanced Placement (AP) Courses: English Literature, Calculus, Biology, U.S. History, Spanish Language
  • Honors Courses: English, Mathematics, Science, Social Studies
  • World Languages: Spanish, French
  • Fine Arts: Visual Arts, Music
  • Physical Education and Health
  • Special Education Services
  • Career and Technical Education Programs

Online Learning

Classical High School offers online learning opportunities through the Providence Public School District’s digital platforms, providing students with access to virtual courses, resources, and support services to enhance their educational experience.

Average Test Scores

TestAverage Score
SAT Math650
SAT Reading660
ACT Composite28

Retention and Graduation Rates

Classical High School boasts a high graduation rate, with approximately 95% of students graduating within four years. The school’s retention rate is also commendable, reflecting its effective academic programs and supportive learning environment.

3. Admissions

GPA Range and SAT / ACT Range

Admission to Classical High School is competitive, with a preference for students who have demonstrated academic excellence. While specific GPA requirements are not publicly disclosed, successful applicants typically have strong academic records. SAT and ACT scores are considered during the admissions process, with higher scores enhancing an applicant’s prospects.

Classical High School Acceptance Rate

CategoryAcceptance Rate
Overall AcceptanceSelective

Classical High School Application Requirements

Prospective students must submit the following materials for consideration:

  • Completed application form
  • Recent report cards and transcripts
  • Standardized test scores (if available)
  • Letters of recommendation
  • Personal statement or essay
  • Interview with the Admissions Committee

Application Process

  1. Complete the online application form available on the school’s website.
  2. Submit all required documents, including academic records and test scores.
  3. Participate in an interview with the Admissions Committee.
  4. Await notification of acceptance.

Classical High School Application Deadlines / Important Dates

EventDate
Application DeadlineJanuary 15
Notification of AcceptanceFebruary 15
Enrollment ConfirmationMarch 1

Essay Prompt

Applicants are required to submit a personal statement addressing the following prompt:

“Describe a challenge you have faced and how you overcame it. What did you learn from this experience, and how will it influence your future endeavors?”

Classical High School Scholarships

Classical High School offers various scholarships to incoming and current students based on academic achievement, financial need, and extracurricular involvement. These scholarships aim to support students in their educational pursuits and encourage excellence within the school community.

Classical High School Tuition and Fees

As a public institution, Classical High School does not charge tuition. However, students may incur fees for certain activities, such as AP exams, extracurricular programs, and school events.

Fee TypeAmount
AP Exam Fee$95 per exam
Extracurricular ActivitiesVaries
School EventsVaries

4. Student Profile and Demographics

Student Demographics

Classical High School serves a diverse student body, reflecting the multicultural community of Providence.

  • Total Enrollment: Approximately 1,119 students
  • Gender Distribution: 53% Female, 47% Male
  • Ethnic Composition:
    • Hispanic: 48.5%
    • White: 18.9%
    • African American: 16%
    • Asian: 8.4%
    • Multiracial: 4.6%
    • Unknown: 3%
    • Native American: 0.4%
    • Pacific Islander: 0.1%

Low-Income Students / Students with Disabilities

A significant portion of the student population at Classical High School comes from low-income families, and the school provides various support services to ensure equitable access to education. Additionally, the school offers programs tailored for students with disabilities, ensuring that all students receive the necessary resources and accommodations to succeed academically.

Student Body

CategoryDetails
Total EnrollmentApproximately 1,119 students
International StudentsNot specified
Student-Teacher Ratio13:1

School Diversity

Classical High School prides itself on its diverse student body, which enriches the learning environment and fosters a culture of inclusion and respect. The school’s diversity is reflected in its curriculum, extracurricular activities, and community events, all of which celebrate various cultures and perspectives. This diversity prepares students to thrive in a global society and promotes understanding and collaboration among individuals from different backgrounds.

Average Earnings

While specific data on alumni earnings is not publicly available, the rigorous academic programs and college preparatory courses offered at Classical High School equip graduates with the skills and knowledge necessary for success in higher education and the workforce. Alumni have gone on to attend prestigious colleges and universities and pursue successful careers in various fields.

5. Faculty and Staff

Teachers and Staff

Classical High School employs a dedicated team of educators and support staff committed to fostering a positive and productive learning environment. The faculty includes subject-area specialists, special education professionals, and support staff who work collaboratively to meet the diverse needs of students.

Faculty Profiles

Faculty members at Classical High School are highly qualified and bring a wealth of experience to their teaching. Many hold advanced degrees in their respective fields and participate in ongoing professional development to stay current with educational best practices. The faculty’s expertise and dedication contribute to the school’s reputation for academic excellence.

6. Campus and Student Life

Campus Life / Housing

Classical High School is situated in a central location in Providence, providing students with access to various community resources and amenities. The campus features modern classrooms, science labs, a library, athletic facilities, and spaces for extracurricular activities. As a public school, Classical High School does not offer on-campus housing; students commute from their homes within the city and surrounding areas.

Transportation

The school is accessible via Providence Public School District-provided transportation services, including school buses. Additionally, the campus is well-served by public transportation, with several bus routes passing nearby, facilitating easy access for students who utilize public transit. The school’s location in downtown Providence also allows for convenient access to various community resources and amenities.