The U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission has found that the Providence Public School Department violated the Civil Rights Act with a $25,000 loan forgiveness program that was exclusively available to non-White educators. The EEOC determined there was "reasonable cause" that the program violated Title VII of the 1964 Civil Rights Act.
Rhode Island families can access free backpacks and school supplies for approximately 15,000 children as part of back-to-school preparation efforts. The initiative aims to help families with the financial burden of school supply costs as students prepare to return to classrooms for the new academic year.
Rhode Island continues to receive recognition for its high-performing public school system, with multiple districts earning top rankings in national assessments. The state's commitment to education excellence is reflected in its 5-star rating system, where 20 schools earned the highest designation in 2024. Rhode Island schools like Classical High School, Barrington, and East Greenwich consistently rank among the nation's best, demonstrating strong academic performance across multiple metrics and serving all students effectively. Source: youtube.com
Rhode Island education officials are strategizing their response after the federal government withheld $30 million in K-12 education funding. The funding freeze affects critical programs including English language learning services and after-school programs for thousands of students. State leaders are exploring legal options and alternative funding sources while working to minimize potential service disruptions and staff layoffs that could impact Rhode Island students and families. Source: rhodeislandcurrent.com
Central Falls has approved the formation of a new school board, marking a significant milestone in the district's transition out of state takeover. This development represents years of progress in addressing the educational and financial challenges that led to state intervention. The new school board will assume greater local control over educational decisions and policies, signaling the district's improved capacity for self-governance and academic achievement. Source: providencejournal.com
Rhode Island's charter school sector is experiencing growing interest in unionization efforts among educators and support staff. The trend reflects broader labor movement activities in education and raises questions about working conditions, compensation, and job security in charter schools. This development could reshape the relationship between charter school operators and their workforce while potentially impacting the operational autonomy that characterizes the charter school model. Source: pbn.com
The Johnston School District has selected and hired a new superintendent to lead the district's educational initiatives and administrative operations. This leadership change represents an opportunity for fresh perspectives on curriculum development, student achievement goals, and community engagement. The new superintendent will be tasked with continuing Johnston's educational progress while addressing current challenges and implementing strategic improvements to benefit students and families. Source: wpri.com
Governor Dan McKee has strongly condemned the Trump administration's efforts to gut the U.S. Department of Education and slash federal education funding. The governor emphasized that Rhode Island is committed to building a stronger future through education, stating that "Education is not a line item, it is a national imperative." McKee's statement reflects growing concerns among state leaders about potential impacts on Rhode Island's educational programs and student services. Source: patch.com
Political analyst Steve Ahlquist examines the legal strategy behind Attorney General Neronha's latest lawsuit challenging federal education funding cuts. The analysis explores the constitutional arguments and potential outcomes of the multi-state legal challenge.
The Rhode Island Senate District 4 special primary election saw an 11% voter turnout, with approximately half of all ballots cast through early voting or mail-in voting. Results and analysis of the low turnout election that will determine candidates for the general election.
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