A Community Engagement Center at the Resiliency Preparatory Academy is planning it’s grand opening later this month. Located at 290 Rock Street, the academy is designed to develop “a one-stop model that will bring a series of workforce development opportunities to students in alternative education,” according to RPA representatives.

Among the featured guest speakers: Mayor Jasiel Correia, School Superintendent Matthew Malone, and President of People, Incorporated Robert Canuel. Both Canuel and Malone were the driving forces behind establishing the program. Mayor Correia will speak in his role as chair of the school committee.

Academy programs will offer hands-on skills, and academic supports. Programs will also include such things as an eight-week power source parently program, a 120 hour internship for direct care workers to include first aid and CPR certification, as well as classes geared towards students becoming certified nursing assistants (CNA), pre-apprentice training, and a culinary arts program.