Providence artist Andrew Grover created a Lego model of the RIFTHP office on Smith Street and presented it to President Frank Flynn.  Andrew brings attention to Rhode Island’s beautiful historic buildings, including public schools.  He was a public school teacher for 21 years and now uses his talent and creativity to point out the beauty that is within our communities.  Using Legos to create models of buildings students recognize from their neighborhoods, Andrew truly brings art to life for kids when he visits schools.  The model will be proudly displayed at the office.&

As part of it’s on-going 2024 Virtual RIFTHP Professional Development offerings, over 20 RI teachers have registered for our currently running, 10 Trauma Informed Strategies to Help Students Heal 10-session series.  Not only are these teachers  attending 2 sessions per week from 6:30 PM – 8:00 PM after a full day in the classroom, they are attending 2 evening sessions during February Break.  This is what educators do on vacation!  

The student loan landscape has been changing and the AFT is working hard to be sure members know how to navigate it and get debt relief as soon as possible. The biggest news is that, after a three-year hiatus, borrowers will have to start making their student loan payments again beginning Oct. 1. The next biggest news? The SAVE plan, a more generous income-driven repayment plan that will save borrowers thousands of dollars and qualify them for Public Service Loan Forgiveness.