Across the Blackstone Valley, classrooms are preparing to transform learning thanks to $15,485 in school grants awarded by the Blackstone Valley Education Foundation (BVEF) for the 2025–2026 school year. From early childhood to high school, these grants will help educators bring real-world skills, creative exploration, and future-focused experiences directly to their students.

Among the 14 grants awarded was Virtual Pathways, a new VR Simulation experience that will be embedded in Blackstone Valley Tech’s nursing assistant training program. The project will allow students to build critical clinical and communication skills in an immersive healthcare setting.

Blackstone Valley Tech also will support a group of students attending the 2026 STEM Education Outdoor Classroom Day at Six Flags, making the trip more accessible and reinforcing STEM pathways through immersive, out-of-school learning.

Northbridge Public Schools will host a two-part Mass Audubon program, Audubon Comes to PreK, bringing environmental education directly to preschoolers through interactive, in-school learning experiences.
Looking Ahead

These grants reflect the strength and creativity of our Valley’s educators, who continue to design meaningful, relevant experiences that prepare students for life beyond the classroom. As these projects launch in the 2025–2026 school year, we look forward to sharing their stories and celebrating their impact.