Warwick, RI (August 27,2025)- Nearly 10,000 students are enrolled in Catholic schools across Rhode Island this year, marking a 3% increase statewide. Against this backdrop of growth, WPRI 12 highlighted Bishop Hendricken High School’s Options Program in its Back to School coverage, showcasing a unique approach to providing students with individualized support and access to all that Hendricken offers.
The Br. Thomas R. Leto Options Program is designed with the belief that all young men, including those with Autism Spectrum Disorder, intellectual disabilities (ID), and developmental disabilities, should have the “option” of a Hendricken education. The program empowers students to develop essential life skills alongside academics, ensuring that every student can thrive both during and after high school.
Assistant Principal Natalie Kessimian shared it best:
“As impactful as the program is for those individual students that attend the program, you really see the impact in the whole community.”
In addition to academics, the Options Program emphasizes mentorship and community. Each student is paired with a “big brother” mentor, a fellow Hendricken student who serves as a guide, role model, and advocate throughout their high school journey. These mentors provide support, build an inclusion environment, and ensure that Options students have someone looking out for them every day.
The program also benefits from Hendricken’s strong alumni network, which supports students as they transition beyond high school . Alumni play an active role in supporting and networking, helping students build connections and develop the confidence and skills needed to become successful, independent adults.
Check out the full coverage here: https://www.wpri.com/video/back-to-school-ri-catholic-schools-see-enrollment-increase/11002962/
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CONTACT: Gianna Lanni
Director of Communications and Marketing
401.889.5422
glanni@hendricken.com