Governor Dan McKee signed legislation allowing retired school staff to work as long-term substitutes without risking their pension benefits, extending the sunset provision until July 1, 2026. The law removes the previous 90-day limit, permitting retirees to teach for a full school year while maintaining their state pensions. However, despite this measure to address staffing shortages, Rhode Island continues to face hundreds of classroom vacancies across the state, raising questions about whether the policy will be sufficient to resolve the ongoing teacher shortage crisis.

Analysis of declining recreational reading habits among students explores the factors contributing to reduced engagement with books outside of classroom requirements. The examination covers digital distractions, curriculum pressures, and changing leisure patterns affecting young readers' relationship with literature. The trends have implications for literacy development and educational approaches in schools nationwide, including Rhode Island districts working to encourage reading engagement. Source: the74million.org

New research examines the correlation between declining student math performance and ongoing pedagogical debates over math instruction methods, alongside challenges in recruiting and retaining qualified math teachers. The study highlights how contentious curriculum disputes and teacher preparation issues may be contributing to nationwide decreases in mathematical proficiency, with implications for educational policy and teacher training programs across states including Rhode Island. Source: the74million.org

The U.S. Department of Justice has filed a federal lawsuit against the Rhode Island Department of Education and Providence Public School District, claiming the "Educators of Color Loan Forgiveness Program" violates federal civil rights law by excluding white teachers. The program offers up to $25,000 in student loan forgiveness to teachers who identify as Asian, Black, Indigenous, Latino, biracial, or multi-racial after completing three consecutive years in PPSD. The DOJ alleges this constitutes racial discrimination under Title VI of the Civil Rights Act and the Equal Protection Clause.

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.