Review of the Prout School in Wakefield, Rhode Island

Any review of Prout School , Wakefield, RI begins and ends with the recognition that the school is centered around a very clear and long standing identity. Prout School, Wakefield, RI offers much to the student in grades 7-12. It can provide an excellent preparation for the rigors of college application and for success when you actually go to college. As a private school The Prout School, Wakefield, RI can also shield students from some of the less savory aspects that accompany public school attendance. But when you review the Prout School, Wakefield, RI and give it serious consideration, know that first and foremost this is a school that is Catholic at its heart.

What's in a Motto. Many private secondary schools today display a motto or slogan that is meant to capture in few salient words, the real scope of what is offered by and can be expected from the school in questions. At the Prout School, Wakefield, RI , the logo proclaims "promoting strength in mind, body and spirit". The administration hopes with this concise phrase to let students know that at Prout education is a three sided affair. Students who come to the Prout School should know that there will be time assigned during their school day to exercise the mind, the body and the spirit. All of these aspects of education is important to the fullest development of the potential of each student.

It is the registered belief of the administration that the Prout School is the top Catholic School in Rhode Island and that its reputation for excellence in private, Catholic education circles extends beyond the Rhode Island borders. This belief stems from the ways in which Prout attempts to make its motto a reality through the academic, extra curricular and spiritual programs offered here.

A Place with a Past. It was the Sisters of the Cross and the Passion , with a mother house in Manchester England, who came to the United States, settled in southern Rhode Island and in 1966 launched a private, Catholic, college preparatory school for girls on a scenic site in Wakefield, RI. The sisters offered young women in the area an opportunity, distinct from the public school tradition, to grow and develop in a sheltered and gentle environment. The success they achieved is noticeable in the fact that many Prout graduates now hold positions of influence and responsibility throughout the state, the region and beyond.

In 1981 a decision was made to retain the Sisters of the Cross and Passion as school administrators but to incorporate the Prout School as a Diocesan school in the Diocese of Providence. Within a few years, another major change occurred when in 1986 Prout opened its doors for the first time to young men becoming a coeducational facility. Its goals throughout its growth and development still center around providing opportunities for academic, extra curricular and spiritual training for its students.

Academics Students attending private schools are often there in the hopes of eventually gaining admission to a reputable college. The Prout School is well organized to help make that happen academically. At Prout students will find a track appropriate to their learning capacity and needs. Students will find it possible to work at the normal college preparatory track in which they will take all those course required by 4 year colleges and universities. But students of exceptional ability may also consider more rigorous college preparatory training in the honors track, International Baccalaureate Tack or Advanced Placement tracks.Some of the courses provided can be taken with a view to acquiring college credits through the Advanced Placement Examination system.

The Prout School is proud to note that the staff that is employed to provide this diverse curriculum of college preparatory classes is well trained and not over taxed. Many of the teachers here can claim 15 or more years of active teaching experience. Class sizes at Prout are intentionally small and the average ration of students to faculty is a very solid 12:1. The combination of skills appropriate learning tracks, experienced faculty and limited class sizes work together to favor a solid academic experience for students at the Prout School.

One of the most active and well known departments at Prout is the Department of Visual and Performing Arts. For students considering long term commitment in the arts, Prout offers a good area to try out and develop your God given abilities. The Depart of Visual and Performing Arts at Prout has an excellent statewide reputation and provides top level opportunities in a state of the art facility. Throughout the year Prout students perform in dance, theater and music offerings for the school and the community.

Extra Curricular. The Prout School does not limit its diversity to the classroom. Students here can find plenty of extra curricular activities and clubs which meet their personal needs and interests. There are more than 20 clubs from which to choose ranging from Yearbook to Jazz Band to Chess Club.

Prout also has a full slate of Athletic teams students are welcomed to join. With the possible exception of football, the Prout School offers interscholastic competition in most other major high school sports for young men and young women including soccer, tennis, swimming, basketball, baseball, softball and track . The goal at Prout is not only to develop the concept of a winning attitude, but also to learn how to work together for the good of the team and to learn the value of physical activity for lifelong health .

Spiritual Development. The cross shaped form of Prout school is not a mistake or a fluke but there by design. From the outset the sisters intention was to present a Catholic option for college preparatory students. The shape of the school underlined that commitment and intention.

The faith finds its way into every corner of student life at Prout. From morning prayer over the intercom to full school masses at least once each month, the school attempts to frame the day and the life of each student with direction first and foremost to God. During the year special programs such as the annual class retreat, 25 hours of Christan service required of each student annually, opportunities for reflection and prayer and observed occasions for the Sacrament of Reconciliation keep young people focused and anchored to their Catholic faith and calling.

Prout School in Wakefield, RI is sometimes seen as remote because of its location in southern RI in the small community of Wakefield. But for those who preview Prout thoroughly it is also possible to come away seeing it not as remote but simply as a place apart. There is a difference, some might call it the Prout difference.