The Rhode Island Senate has elected Senator Lawson as its new President, making history as she takes leadership with Senator Ciccone as her second-in-command. Source: rhodeislandcurrent.com

Providence Teachers Union representatives have expressed concerns about Mayor Brett Smiley's proposed school turnaround plan, stating it lacks specific details and clear implementation strategies. Teachers are calling for more educator input in the development process. Source: pbn.com

A federal judge has ruled that the Department of Education must reinstate previously approved extensions for COVID-19 education relief funds (ESSER). The decision affects Rhode Island schools that had planned projects using these funds beyond the original deadline. Source: k12dive.com

Rhode Island's Education Commissioner has issued a statement opposing recently proposed federal education budget cuts, highlighting their potential negative impact on Rhode Island schools and students. The Commissioner emphasized concerns about reduced funding for special education and Title I programs. Source: wpri.com

The U.S. Department of Education is requiring states to confirm compliance with new directives banning diversity, equity, and inclusion programs in schools or risk losing federal education funding. Rhode Island educators are assessing potential impacts on existing programs. Source: rhodeislandcurrent.com