Hope High School, originally built in 1936, is undergoing a comprehensive renovation that reflects Providence’s commitment to revitalizing its historic schools while addressing modern educational needs. This renovation, part of a larger state-funded initiative, focuses on transforming Hope into a hub for Visual and Performing Arts education while upgrading its aging infrastructure. Recent improvements at Hope include a newly redesigned auditorium with state-of-the-art sound and lighting systems, as well as renovations to the library, student entrance, and lobby. These changes create a more welcoming and student-friendly environment, designed to support individual study and group collaboration. Ongoing renovations include upgrading arts classrooms, installing modern audio-visual equipment, and repairing the roof.

 

Hope High School is also part of the broader school redesign efforts underway at Hope and four other schools within PPSD, including DelSesto STEAM Academy , Juanita Sanchez Life Sciences Institute, Dr. Jorge Alvarez Healthcare and Finance Careers, and Mount Pleasant High Early College and Career. These redesigns, approved by the Council of Elementary and Secondary Education, focus on improving academic outcomes and creating more engaging learning environments. The DelSesto redesign specifically enhances STEM learning, equity, and academic excellence to ensure all students are prepared for the future. 

 

The transformation at Hope Visual and Performing Arts is part of a broader effort to enhance arts education in Providence, with partnerships from local institutions like the Rhode Island School of Design and the Rhode Island Film and TV Office. When completed in  2025, Hope High School will serve as a model for how historic buildings can be restored to meet the needs of today’s students while fostering creativity and community engagement.