RELATING EDUCATION -- THE PAUL W. CROWLEY RHODE ISLAND STUDENT INVESTMENT INITIATIVE.
The bill aims to enhance the academic performance of students in failing schools by implementing structured support systems and accountability measures. It recognizes the essential role of local school committees while introducing state oversight if necessary. Notably, S0663 adjusts the funding responsibilities of local school committees by ensuring they maintain funding levels consistent with prior years and adjusts for state aid increases. This structure is intended to provide stability while promoting improvements in educational outcomes.
S0663, known as the Paul W. Crowley Rhode Island Student Investment Initiative, is a bill introduced to reform the support and intervention strategies for schools in Rhode Island that continue to underperform. It mandates the adoption of progressive intervention strategies by the Board of Regents, focusing on technical assistance, policy support, and resource oversight for schools that do not meet established performance goals over a three-year period. If there is no improvement, the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) is granted authority to exercise control over the respective school or district's budget and programs, potentially including restructuring governance and operations.
Controversially, the bill also limits the ability of the commissioner of elementary and secondary education to withhold funds from underperforming school districts, which could lead to debates about the adequacy of state intervention. While supporters highlight increased accountability and oversight for failing schools, critics may express concern over the balance of local control versus state authority, fearing that excessive state oversight might hinder the unique needs and responses of individual school districts.