Rhode Island schools are implementing new policies passed by the General Assembly to address critical issues including teacher shortages and student mental health support. The new measures also include cell phone restrictions and freedom to read provisions, reflecting the state's comprehensive approach to current educational challenges.
A North Providence High School history educator has been recognized as Rhode Island's 2025 History Teacher of the Year, honoring their exceptional dedication to teaching and innovative approaches to engaging students in historical learning. The award recognizes outstanding contributions to history education in the state.
The Trump administration has agreed to release $29 million in frozen federal education funds to Rhode Island by October as part of a settlement with 24 states. The funds were originally intended to support after-school programs, summer offerings, teachers' professional development, and English language acquisition programs before being frozen earlier this summer. Source: rhodeislandcurrent.com
A federal judge has ruled that the Trump administration's ban on diversity, equity, and inclusion programs in K-12 schools and higher education institutions is unlawful. The ruling affects educational institutions across the country, including Rhode Island schools and universities that had been impacted by the federal policy changes. Source: rhodeislandcurrent.com
Mental health experts provide guidance for Rhode Island parents on helping children manage anxiety as they return to school. The article offers practical strategies for recognizing signs of school-related stress and creating supportive environments during the transition back to classroom learning. Source: rhodeislandcurrent.com
Anthropic releases a comprehensive report examining how teachers and educational institutions are incorporating Claude AI into their instructional practices. The study explores various applications including lesson planning, student assessment, and personalized learning support, providing insights relevant to Rhode Island educators considering AI integration. Source: anthropic.com
Little Compton School District has received $550,000 in state funding to install water treatment systems that remove PFAS chemicals from drinking water, serving as a model for other Rhode Island schools. The project addresses elevated levels of these "forever chemicals" in the water system serving 450 students and faculty members. Source: providencejournal.com
Rhode Island State Police are distributing over 2,000 backpacks and school supplies to students as part of their annual "Kids, Cops and Classrooms" campaign. The program helps provide essential school supplies to Rhode Island families in need, with donations collected through partnerships with local businesses including Ocean State Job Lot and BayCoast Bank locations. Source: turnto10.com
Rhode Island schools are implementing new policies this academic year targeting two critical issues: addressing teacher shortages and supporting student mental health. Each district must now create a Student Safety and Behavioral Health Committee to review supports, set procedures, and identify resources for students with mental health and behavioral challenges. Source: msn.com
Rhode Island Education Commissioner Angelica Infante-Green announces a new statewide attendance retention policy that could result in students being held back if they are chronically absent, missing 18 or more school days. The policy takes effect across Rhode Island and includes three specific criteria that families must meet to avoid grade retention. Source: youtube.com
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