Senate passes Rhode Island Pre-K Education Act and Student Investment Initiative

The Senate Committee on Education convened on April 2, 2025, to discuss key legislative proposals aimed at enhancing educational opportunities in Rhode Island. The meeting began with the introduction of Senate Bill 394, known as the Rhode Island Pre-Kindergarten Education Act. This bill, presented by a committee member, seeks to establish guidelines for expanding high-quality public pre-kindergarten programs for children aged three and four, with the goal of improving school readiness. The committee unanimously approved the bill, moving it forward in the legislative process.

Following this, the committee addressed Senate Bill 634, introduced by Senator Mack. This legislation, referred to as the Paul W. Crowley Rhode Island Student Investment Initiative, aims to increase local autonomy in school decision-making, particularly in Providence. Senator Mack emphasized the need for more localized control, suggesting the establishment of school-based councils that would function similarly to Parent-Teacher Organizations (PTOs). He noted that this approach is inspired by successful models from other cities, such as Chicago.

During the discussion, Senator Zaria expressed support for the bill, highlighting its potential to enhance parent and community engagement in schools. He acknowledged the importance of site-based management as a means to empower local decision-making, aligning with priorities he had previously identified during his tenure on the Providence School Board.

The meeting concluded with Tim Duffy expressing gratitude for the committee's ongoing commitment to making education a constitutional right in Rhode Island, following the passage of Resolution 177. The discussions underscored a collective effort to innovate and improve educational governance in the state, with a focus on increasing local involvement and enhancing early childhood education.