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 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
Providence Public Schools is launching "The People's Plan" initiative, inviting community members and families to participate in shaping the future direction of the city's school system. The public engagement effort aims to gather input from stakeholders as the district works on long-term planning and improvements. Source: abc6.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
Comprehensive guide to the first day of the 2025-26 school year for every Rhode Island public school district, helping parents and students prepare for the upcoming academic year with district-specific start dates and schedules. Source: yahoo.com
Analysis of the growing movement to ban phones in schools across the United States, examining whether these policies effectively address student distraction and mental health concerns, with implications for Rhode Island school districts considering similar measures. Source: the74million.org
Educational experts explore the evolving concept of AI literacy in K-12 education, addressing challenges in curriculum development and teaching students essential skills for navigating artificial intelligence technology in academic and professional settings. Source: the74million.org
Rhode Island assembles a 17-member task force to address the educational challenges facing foster children, who have significantly lower high school graduation rates compared to their peers, developing strategies to improve academic outcomes and support systems. Source: rhodeislandcurrent.com
Providence City Councilman Juan Pichardo hosts a special community meeting to address concerns about the planned demolition of the historic 95-year-old Gilbert Stuart Middle School, as residents and preservationists oppose the destruction of the 500,000 square-foot landmark building. Source: abc6.com
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