NEL/CPS Academy Gets $78,000 Grant

Classrooms at the New England Laborers'/Cranston Public Schools will be taking a major technological leap forward thanks to a $78,000 grant from the Champlin Foundations.

Each classroom will now have a project-based system connected to a desktop computer for the teacher to administer lesson plans. Students will be able to interact with the teacher in real time as they use files, applications and multimedia. The software will also be used in the school's virtual learning lab and adult education program.

“Throughout the years we have learned that in the construction industry technology is always advancing," said Armand E. Sabitoni, co-founder of the academy and general secretary-treasurer and New England regional manager of the Laborers' International Union of North America. 

"By consistently striving to bring the latest in technology to the New England Laborers’/ Cranston Public School Construction & Career Academy we seek to keep our students engaged in the process of lifelong learning. The Champlin Foundations have been a wonderful partner to many schools in Rhode Island and we are pleased and proud to have been chosen to receive this grant.  It reaffirms our belief that our school is providing an excellent educational opportunity for all our students.”

More than 30 schools competed for grant funds. The academy was one of eight finalists and the eventual six who were awarded.

Officials from the Champlin Foundations said they were impressed with the way the NEL/CPS Construction Career Academy teaches and gives students real-world skills they can take into the workplace.

"This technology will prepare them for success when they enter Rhode Island's workforce during their high school career and upon graduation," said Keith Lang, executive director of the Champlin Foundations.

Dennis Curran, Executive Director of the school remarked: “I am thrilled we were awarded this grant which will greatly enhance classroom learning and further advance our school’s hands-on, problem based methodology already in place.  It will provide our teachers with the most highly advanced software available – right at their fingertips. We know that students learn best when they are engaged and this new system will allow them to learn in one of the most interactive modes possible on a daily basis.”

Michael A. Traficante, Chairman of the NEL/CPS Board of Directors:  “Our administrators, teachers and staff worked very hard and did a remarkable job in securing this grant.  The Champlin Foundations recognized our huge success in job readiness and job placement for our students.  This grant will continue to assist us in our mission and we are grateful for the Champlin Foundations generous support.”