Rhode Island's 2025 RICAS results show 31.4% of grades 3-8 students proficient in math, surpassing pre-pandemic levels, while English Language Arts proficiency reached 33.7%, still below pre-pandemic rates. Commissioner Angelica Infante-Green emphasized that Rhode Island is narrowing the gap with Massachusetts, which remains ahead with 39% ELA proficiency and 40% math proficiency.

Providence Public School District students and teachers are navigating the increasing use of artificial intelligence tools in educational settings, balancing the benefits of AI assistance with concerns about academic integrity and learning authenticity. The adoption of AI technologies in PPSD classrooms reflects broader national debates about how schools should integrate emerging technologies while ensuring students develop critical thinking skills and genuine understanding.

The Rhode Island Department of Education established a state Blue Ribbon Schools Program and recognized Melville Elementary School in Portsmouth, Pocasset Elementary School in Tiverton, and Robert L. Bailey IV Elementary School in Providence as 2025 awardees. RIDE created the state program after the federal Department of Education abruptly ended the longstanding National Blue Ribbon program in late August.

A Providence elementary school principal has been placed on administrative leave following an incident that also resulted in the arrest of a staff member. The situation at Lillian Feinstein Elementary School involved police officers and has prompted an investigation by school district officials. The administrative action reflects the district's response to maintain school safety and proper oversight while the matter is being investigated, with interim leadership arrangements put in place to ensure continued school operations. Source: turnto10.com

Providence Public School District students receive universal free school lunches due to the district's high poverty levels qualifying for Community Eligibility Provision, while students in other Rhode Island districts face varying eligibility requirements and costs for school meals. The disparity highlights food security challenges across different districts and the connection between student nutrition and academic performance. The article examines how meal programs affect educational equity and student wellbeing throughout Rhode Island's diverse school districts.