Rhode Island 2024 Regular Session

Rhode Island Senate Bill S2964

Introduced
4/5/24  

Caption

JOINT RESOLUTION MAKING AN APPROPRIATION OF $750,000 TO THE RHODE ISLAND SCHOOL FOR PROGRESSIVE EDUCATION OVER THREE FISCAL YEARS (This joint resolution would authorize the appropriation of the total sum of $750,000 to the Rhode Island School of Progressive Education, a period of over three fiscal years, to be distributed in three (3) equal installments.)

Impact

The passage of S2964 is intended to promote equity and diversity within the teaching workforce in Rhode Island. Currently, there is a significant disparity between the demographics of students and teachers, with fewer than 5% of teachers identifying as people of color. By increasing the number of diverse educators, the bill encourages culturally responsive teaching practices that can improve educational outcomes for all students. This initiative is seen as a crucial step towards correcting historical injustices within the education system.

Summary

Bill S2964, introduced in the Rhode Island General Assembly, is a joint resolution that proposes an appropriation of $750,000 to the Rhode Island School for Progressive Education (RISPE) over three fiscal years. The bill aims to address the urgent need for more educators of color within public schools by providing funding to RISPE, which is dedicated to recruiting and training aspiring teachers who reflect the demographics of the student population. The funding is to be distributed in three equal installments of $250,000 each year, from the fiscal year 2024-2025 to 2026-2027.

Contention

While advocates argue that S2964 is a vital step towards achieving a more equitable education system, there may be concerns regarding funding allocations and the effectiveness of the program to produce significant results. Opponents could highlight the need for comprehensive reforms that address broader systemic issues in education, rather than solely focusing on teacher recruitment. Additionally, some may question the sustainability of this funding model and its impact on the overall state budget.

General_relevance

The resolution's focus on increasing the representation of teachers of color is part of a wider national conversation regarding educational equity. Programs such as those proposed in S2964 are increasingly recognized as essential for fostering an inclusive learning environment that benefits all students. This bill's consideration by the General Assembly indicates a legislative commitment to addressing these critical issues and supporting initiatives that aim to enhance the quality of education for Rhode Islanders.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

RI H6125

Joint Resolution Making An Appropriation Of $750,000 To The Rhode Island School For Progressive Education Over Three Fiscal Years (this Joint Resolution Would Authorize The Appropriation Of The Total Sum Of $750,000 To The Rhode Island School Of Progressive Education, A Period Of Over Three Fiscal Years, To Be Distributed In Three (3) Equal Installments.)

RI H6243

Joint Resolution Making An Appropriation Of $738,088 To Rhode Island College (this Resolution Would Authorize The Appropriation Of The Sum Of $738,088 To Rhode Island College To Fund Rhode Island College Hsi Status And Student Supports.)

RI S0774

Joint Resolution Making An Appropriation Of $738,088 To Rhode Island College (this Resolution Would Authorize The Appropriation Of The Sum Of $738,088 To Rhode Island College To Fund Rhode Island College Hsi Status And Student Supports.)

RI S0260

Joint Resolution Making An Appropriation Of Approximately $30,000,000 To Rhode Island's Public Schools For Safety And Security Improvements (this Resolution Would Authorize The Appropriation Of The Sum Of $100,000 To Each Public School In Rhode Island For School Safety And Security Improvements.)

RI H5817

Joint Resolution Making An Appropriation Of Approximately $30,000,000 To Rhode Island's Public Schools For Safety And Security Improvements (this Resolution Would Authorize The Appropriation Of The Sum Of $100,000 To Each Public School In Rhode Island For School Safety And Security Improvements.)

RI H6124

Joint Resolution Making An Appropriation Of $2,000,000 To The Rhode Island Food Bank (this Resolution Would Authorize The Appropriation Of The Sum Of $2,000,000 To The Rhode Island Community Food Bank.)

RI H5405

Joint Resolution Making An Appropriation Of $200,000 To The Brain Injury Association Of Rhode Island (biari) (this Joint Resolution Would Authorize The Appropriation Of The Sum Of $200,000 To The Brian Injury Association Of Rhode Island (biari).)

RI H5478

Joint Resolution Making An Appropriation Of $150,000 To The Women's Fund Of Rhode Island (this Resolution Would Authorize The Appropriation Of The Sum Of $150,000 To Women’s Fund Of Rhode Island To Implement Programs And Initiatives That Seek To Close The Gender Wage, Wealth, Health, And Leadership Gaps.)

RI H6021

Joint Resolution Making An Appropriation Of $50,000 To The Rhode Island Department Of Education For Fire Academy Training Programs At Central High School In Providence (this Joint Resolution Would Authorize The Appropriation Of The Sum Of $50,000 To The Rhode Island Department Of Education For Firefighter I Student Courses At Central High School In Providence.)

RI S0244

Senate Resolution Making An Appropriation Of $180,000 For The Rhode Island State Conservation Committee And Its Three Conservation Districts (this Resolution Would Authorize The Appropriation Of The Sum Of $180,000 To The Ri State Conservation Committee And Its Three Conservation Districts.)

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.