S3 E2 Human First, Excellent Always

Bold by Choice, powered by the National Charter Schools Institute, is hosted by Vashaunta Harris and Jim Goenner, and in this episode, they’re joined by Sarah Anderson, CEO & Superintendent of Blackstone Valley Prep, for a conversation about what it truly means to expand opportunity for students and communities. Season 3 of Bold by Choice is all about schools worth bragging about—and this episode delivers. We head to Rhode Island to spotlight Blackstone Valley Prep (BVP), a charter school network intentionally designed to bring together students from four neighboring but historically unequal communities. Across six campuses, BVP blends rigorous academics, joyful school culture, and a deeply rooted college-going mindset that begins early and lasts well beyond graduation. Sarah Anderson shares how BVP’s integrated model, co-teaching approach, strong family partnerships, and intentional design help expand the circle of success for more students—academically, socially, and culturally. In this episode, you’ll hear about: Going beyond college prep to prepare students for life Designing integrated public schools with purpose Creating belonging alongside academic rigor Supporting teachers through collaboration and coaching Leading with pragmatism, optimism, and heart Listen in, share with a colleague, and join us this season as we celebrate bold schools, bold leadership, and bold choices.