Committee holds bill delaying RIDE's deadline for identifying high-quality science instructional materials

Senator McKinney presented legislation to delay by one year the Rhode Island Department of Education's deadline to direct local education agencies to adopt identified high-quality science instructional materials. The bill would move the deadline from June 30, 2025 to June 30, 2026.

McKinney said RIDE is required under prior law to identify high-quality curricula and that the bill would give districts more time to pilot materials, budget for purchases, and provide professional learning. Kevin McNamara, assistant superintendent for Lincoln Public Schools, testified that material reviews show limited options: "As of now... there are only 2 options available for grades k to 2 in science, 1 in grades 3 to 5... 2 options for middle school, and only 1 option for 1 course in biology in high school," and that districts need more choices before a statewide requirement is imposed.

Andy Andrade for RIDE supported a delay, saying the department and districts want more vetted options and time to implement materials with the required professional learning. Committee members discussed whether the statutory requirement that RIDE provide multiple (five) examples per subject is feasible and whether additional delay (to 2027) might be necessary; McKinney said he had initially sought a later date but the House had suggested 2026.

The committee voted to hold the bill to allow additional review and potential drafting changes; witnesses and senators agreed that implementation also depends on districts' budget plans and available funding for materials and training.