Education experts identify emerging trends expected to shape K-12 classrooms in 2026, including technology integration, evolving pedagogical approaches, and responses to post-pandemic learning challenges. The forecast examines both instructional innovations and policy developments.
The U.S. Education Secretary is advocating for increased state control over education policy, signaling a shift away from federal oversight and requirements. The proposal would give individual states greater authority to determine curriculum standards, testing requirements, and educational priorities.
Education advocates and policymakers are examining whether Rhode Island's current school funding formula needs significant restructuring. The debate centers on equity concerns and whether the existing system adequately serves districts with varying demographic and economic needs.
Education accountability systems are facing challenges not only from federal policy changes but also from grassroots opposition at the local and state levels. The analysis examines how various stakeholders are pushing back against standardized testing and performance metrics.
Critics are raising concerns about the Rhode Island Department of Education's apparent approval of a new charter school. Questions focus on the approval process, community input, and potential impact on existing public schools in the area.
A Rhode Island Foundation Blue Ribbon Commission is calling for a major overhaul of the state's school funding formula, recommending the state increase its share of K-12 education costs from the current 38% to relieve pressure on municipal property taxes. The commission proposes expanding the formula to cover transportation, special education, and teacher pension costs while requiring municipalities to make minimum contributions based on property wealth.
Education Commissioner Angelica Infante-Green demands action following a surge in school violence, with over 40 students arrested at Woonsocket High School this year and four students charged in an alleged assault of a special-needs student at Rogers High School in Newport. School committees in both districts are meeting to address safety measures and prevent bullying.
A federal lawsuit alleging Providence Public School District failed to provide timely special education services to preschool-aged students with disabilities has been closed after the district demonstrated substantial compliance with a 2023 settlement agreement. The district restructured evaluation processes, expanded pre-K special education classrooms from 35 to 41, and implemented tracking systems to ensure students receive required services under federal law.
Rhode Island's General Assembly returns January 6 facing major challenges including looming Medicaid cuts that will remove 33,500 residents from coverage, a fragile healthcare system with provider shortages, and federal funding uncertainties. House Speaker Shekarchi calls it the most challenging session in his six years leading the chamber, with priorities including healthcare reform, housing affordability, and workforce development.
Three Rhode Island educators from Park Elementary, Goff Middle School, and Coventry High School were honored with 2025 STEAM Educator Awards, each receiving a $1,000 classroom grant and $500 personal award for their innovative teaching approaches that spark creativity and critical thinking in science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics.
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