Parent Academy 

Equip Yourself. Empower Your Child.

At Stop the Wait RI, we believe informed and empowered parents are the key to driving real change in education. Our Parent Academy is designed to help you become a confident advocate for your child’s education — and for every child in Rhode Island.

Through engaging, practical sessions, you’ll gain the knowledge, skills, and connections you need to navigate the education system, influence policy, and ensure your child gets the high-quality education they deserve.

Topics we cover include:

  •  ✔ The Story of Education in Rhode Island
    ✔ Navigating the Public School System
    ✔ Advocacy 101: Making Your Voice Heard
    ✔ Sharing Your Education Story

  • ✔ Early Intervention & Special Education Rights
    ✔ Multilingual Learner Rights
    ✔ Public School & Charter Options
    ✔ EnrollRI & Charter School Lottery

  • ✔ Understanding School Funding
    ✔ Social-Emotional Learning & Mental Health
    ✔ Addressing Bullying & Cyberbullying
    ✔ College Access: Planning for the Future

Join a community of parents transforming frustration into action. Together, we’re shaping a better future for Rhode Island’s students.

What People Are Saying

"Participating in the Parent Academy was an incredibly positive and rewarding experience. Being able to meet other parents who share similar views and expectations and the sense of community and support that developed through these connections was truly special. I gained so much more than just knowledge. I learned more ways to support my child’s development, as well as parenting techniques that I can apply every day. Beyond that, I connected with other parents who understand the same challenges and share similar goals, which has been incredibly motivating. The experience has elevated both my personal and family life, giving me a sense of confidence and support that I didn’t have before." 

— Suzie D. Virtual Parent's Academy participant, PPSD graduate and Providence parent

"I don’t have any deltas this was an excellent program and definitely a labor of love. I am very thankful for the opportunity to learn all of the ways in which I can support my child’s education. Thank you for all the work you put in this." 

— Damian L.

“This program gave me not only the information I needed, but the confidence and reassurance that I'm not alone on this journey. The guidance and tools I received opened my eyes to resources I never knew existed. To the facilitators, organizers, and everyone involved, thank you from the bottom of my heart. Your passion and dedication made a difference in my life and in the lives of so many other families. This experience reminded me of the power of community, education, and hope. I walk away not just with knowledge, but with a renewed sense of purpose as a parent.”

— Samily G.

“This course provided me with invaluable insights and deeper understanding that will prepare me to support my children through their own journeys. Now, I feel a renewed sense of confidence in navigating the intricacies of the application process, equipped with the knowledge and strategies I've gained.”

— Marlyn F.

Frequently Asked Questions

  •  Stop the Wait RI offers flexible class schedules to fit your availability. We run both in-person and virtual classes quarterly. Please refer to our application form for the most up-to-date class dates and times.

  •  All classes are completely free of charge.

  • Yes! We offer in-person classes at our office, located at 1290 Westminster St, Providence, as well as virtual options—both offered quarterly.

  • Yes! We provide free babysitting and meals during in-person classes to ensure families can fully participate without added stress.

Upcoming Sessions

Virtual Parent Academy  
In-Person Parent Academy 

General Program Interest Form: Please fill out our general interest form to be among the first notified about all upcoming programming and events.

Interest Form