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

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 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

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 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