From Remodel to Remarkable: Scholarship Prep Riverside Earns First Place Beautification Award

Scholarship Prep Riverside did not just open a free TK-8 public charter school this year. We transformed a previously vacant property on Magnolia Avenue into a space where Riverside students are learning, growing, and envisioning their collegiate future!

This remarkable transformation was recently recognized when the campus was named the First Place winner of the 2026 Exterior Remodel and Reconstruction Award by Keep Riverside Clean and Beautiful.

Executive Director Jason Watts accepted the award at Mayor Dawson’s State of the City, celebrating a project that reshaped not only a property, but a neighborhood opportunity.

A Space Reimagined for Students

The award honors the physical transformation of our campus. What was once a neglected commercial property is now a vibrant, welcoming school designed for children and families, thanks to the vision and partnership of Blackwell Development, Red Hook Capital, and Studio W Architects.

Just days before the school’s August 2025 opening, muralist Brian Peterson created a bold, inspiring mural that stands as a permanent visual reminder that Riverside students are reaching higher and dreaming bigger.

Beauty on the Outside. Excellence on the Inside.

The renewed exterior tells one story. The classrooms inside tell another.

Inside our walls, students are engaging in strong academics, exploring the arts, competing in athletics, and forming meaningful relationships with teachers who know them well.

The care poured into rebuilding the campus mirrors the care happening daily in classrooms.  Intentional design. High expectations. Pride in our environment. A belief that students deserve a space that reflects their potential.

A Neighborhood School for Riverside Families

Scholarship Prep Riverside is here to provide a free, high-quality public charter school option for families in the city. In our inaugural year, Riverside families have responded with enthusiasm, and enrollment continues to grow.

We are grateful to the community leaders and partners who have supported this transformation and welcomed us to Magnolia Avenue, including:

• City of Riverside Mayor Patricia Lock Dawson
• Ward 5 Councilmember Sean Mill
• Riverside County Office of Education
• Arlington Business Partnership and Executive Director, Oz Puerta
• Greater Riverside Chambers of Commerce
• Keep Riverside Clean and Beautiful
   

This award recognizes a beautiful exterior transformation. What makes us most proud is what is happening inside every classroom.

Enrollment is now open for 2026–2027, and we look forward to welcoming even more Riverside families to our growing school community.

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