SB 2233 establishes specific new funding categories to support school districts across Rhode Island. It provides state reimbursement for excess costs in special education (above a set threshold), career and technical education programs, pre-kindergarten access, and transportation for students attending out-of-district non-public schools. The bill also creates stabilization funds for Central Falls, Davies, and the Met Center schools, and offers regionalized school districts a temporary bonus (2% then 1% of state funding share) for their first two fiscal years. School districts seeking these funds must meet criteria set by the Department of Education, and funds are prorated if demand exceeds available appropriations.
Directs the council on elementary and secondary education to develop recommendations for a high school curriculum to prepare students for successful postsecondary education and careers in computer science.
SB 2349 establishes a new program allowing students with severe intellectual disabilities, severe autism spectrum disorders, or other severe developmental disabilities (ages 18-22) to attend Rhode Island's state colleges and universities without meeting standard college entrance requirements like standardized tests, high school diplomas, or minimum GPAs. The program integrates into students' Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) and requires institutions to provide inclusive opportunities - such as credit courses, internships, and campus activities - with tailored supports for academic, career, and social development. Participation is classified as an approved special education service, with costs covered under existing IEP funding, though institutions are not required to pay for additional supports beyond typical offerings. The law applies to all state institutions, including the Community College of Rhode Island, Rhode Island College, and the University of Rhode Island.
SB 2078, the School Libraries Act, requires every public school in Rhode Island (including traditional schools, charters, and vocational schools) to have a permanent library space and a certified school librarian. It mandates that schools with 250+ students have a full-time librarian by 2027 (high schools), 2029 (middle/high schools), and 2031 (all K-12), while smaller schools must have at least half-time coverage. The bill specifies that libraries must include adequate book collections, student study space, technology, and daily student access, with librarians available during open library time. It also defines key terms like "information literacy" and "media literacy" to guide implementation. The law would take effect upon passage.
Requires transition planning for high school students with disabilities, who have a “504” plan, like the transition planning required for high school students with disabilities, who have an individualized education program (IEP).
HB 7417 requires every public school in Rhode Island (including charter and vocational schools) to have a dedicated library space and a certified school librarian. It mandates specific library resources like book collections, technology, and daily student access, with staffing requirements phased in: full-time librarians for schools of 250+ students immediately, high schools by 2026-27, and all K-12 schools by 2030-31. The bill directs the education commissioner to enforce these standards, ensuring consistent library access and qualified staff. This legislation applies to all public schools and is pending passage.
Mandates public schools (K-12) have one full-time certified social worker for every 250 students and allocates $2 million in the Fiscal Year 2025 budget for school districts and municipalities to hire additional social workers.
