Rhode Island 2023 Regular Session

Rhode Island Senate Bill S0177

Introduced
2/16/23  
Refer
2/16/23  
Report Pass
3/8/23  
Engrossed
3/16/23  

Caption

The Kindergarten Through Grade Two

Impact

The introduction of Bill S0177 is expected to significantly impact state laws related to education. By formalizing a cap on classroom sizes, the bill addresses a long-standing concern regarding the adequacy of instructional time and resources dedicated to young learners. Supporters argue that smaller class sizes can lead to improved educational outcomes, helping to enhance both student engagement and performance, while also aiding in classroom management for teachers.

Summary

Bill S0177, also known as the Kindergarten Through Grade Two Maximum Class Size Act, seeks to establish a mandated maximum class size of twenty students for public school classrooms from kindergarten through grade two. This regulation aims to enhance the quality of education during these formative years by ensuring that teachers can provide more individualized attention to students. The bill will require schools to adhere to this limit on or before October 1 each year, outlining specific circumstances under which exceptions can be made, such as enrollment emergencies or temporary conditions lasting no longer than three days.

Conclusion

Overall, Bill S0177 reflects an important step towards reforming early childhood education in Rhode Island. Its focus on promoting manageable class sizes emphasizes the need for a quality educational environment during critical learning years while raising discussions concerning the allocation of resources and budgetary considerations in implementing such regulations.

Contention

While the bill enjoys support from various educational advocates and parents who seek better student-teacher ratios, there are points of contention surrounding its implementation. Critics may raise concerns about the feasibility of enforcing such a mandate across all public schools, especially in districts facing budget limitations or higher student populations. They could argue that without sufficient funding and resources, the bill could create stress on the school system or lead to unintended consequences, such as overcrowding in other grades or subjects, if not all areas of a school can accommodate the specified limits.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

RI H5085

The Kindergarten Through Grade Two

RI S2282

Establishing A Class Size Maximum For Kindergarten Through Grade Two

RI S2148

2) MAXIMUM CLASS SIZE ACT (Mandates 20 students per classroom for kindergarten through second grade. Exceptions for emergencies and temporary situations, not to exceed 3 days and mid-year enrollments.

RI HB369

Change diagnostic assessments for grades kindergarten through 3

RI HB1231

Math In Pre-kindergarten Through Twelfth Grade

RI HB211

Limits class size and requires two teachers in kindergarten through fourth grade classrooms (OR INCREASE LF EX See Note)

RI SB1175

Student literacy measures; scope, students in grades four through eight.

RI HB1526

Student literacy measures; scope, students in grades four through eight, English SOLs.

RI HB981

Requires instruction on mental health to be provided for students in grades kindergarten through twelve

RI S0972

Amends the composition of school bus districts within the state to provide transportation to students in grades kindergarten through 12.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.