Bringing a Collective Artistic Vision to Life
Part of what makes Throughline Learning collaborations so powerful is our unwavering commitment to the people we partner with. For Michaelle Larracuente, Throughline Learning’s Director of Program & Implementation, launching a project in January 2024 with Providence principal Cynthia Torres struck a deeply personal note.
Raised in the neighborhood adjacent to Reservoir Avenue Elementary School, Michaelle felt a special synergy with Principal Torres from the start. The duo shared a similar vision for wanting students and families to feel welcomed, seen, and valued. This aspiration was central to their development of a high-dosage math tutoring program that trained a small team of adult tutors from the community to support student academic and social-emotional needs.
The innovative, community-centered project approach was set in motion during the 100th anniversary year of the school’s opening, and reflected key themes that Principal Torres elevated across the school: identity, connection, persistence, and community.
At the end of the 2024 school year, Principal Torres shared another vision with Michaelle — she wanted the joyful learning taking place inside the school to be reflected on the outside of the building as well. A fan of AGONZA, a local Dominican and Puerto Rican artist, Principal Torres dreamed of commissioning a vibrant mural installation to mark the centennial and celebrate her school community.
Equipped with a modest grant from the Feinstein Foundation and Michaelle’s community connections, Principal Torres arranged a meeting with AGONZA to pitch her vision. The three women felt a deep resonance from their similar backgrounds, lived experiences, and connection to supporting youth within the local community. They just needed more resources to realize the dream — in the form of volunteer painters. Two weeks later, Michaelle and Principal Torres had amassed over a dozen volunteers from Reservoir’s community — spanning faculty, families, math tutors, and Throughline Learning staff.
Vibrancy & Diversity
“We are so appreciative of our partnership with Throughline Learning. Having a piece from AGONZA that reflects the vibrancy and diversity in our community is an honor. Thank you to all that made this work possible; we are a living testimony that when we work together with the community, great things happen."
— Cynthia Torres, Principal, Reservoir Avenue ES
In the spirit of co-design, AGONZA visited Reservoir Ave, saw examples of student work, and heard the school’s history. Then, she asked the volunteer team to share grade school memories, milestones, and joyful learning experiences. These quintessential moments were incorporated as symbols painted in black on the bright yellow background throughout the final piece.
The finished mural was presented to the school community on August 27 at Back to School Night, with AGONZA and members of the volunteer team in attendance.
A Story that Belongs to the Community
“A mural is more than just paint on a wall — it's a collaborative vision brought to life, where every hand, brushstroke, and idea must be carefully coordinated to create a story that belongs to the community. AGONZA has such a treasured way with a paintbrush. We are so grateful that the Reservoir Avenue School allowed us to support with this most memorable gift to celebrate their 100 years!”
— Michaelle Larracuente, Director of Program & Implementation, Throughline Learning.
The beautiful final product is another exceptional example of AGONZA’s work and a testament to the passion, vision, and commitment of the incredible people who comprise school communities. Throughline Learning is proud to be part of the team.
Connection & Respect
“Helping one another is what builds community! Words can’t amount to how connected I felt and how much respect I have for this neighborhood and the Cambodian Society of RI. Thank you to everyone who came out to help, in celebration of Reservoir Avenue School turning 100 years old!”
— AGONZA
Explore AGONZA's portfolio and commission future projects on her website. To support upcoming initiatives at Reservoir Elementary, including a coat drive this fall as students get ready for the winter months, email Principal Torres.
To all of the students, families, community members, and educators heading back to school, we wish you a supportive, enriching, and colorful 2024-2025 school year ahead!