reglab/statecodes huggingface dataset:
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 16 - Education › Chapter 16-22.1 - The Statewide Virtual Education Act [See Title 16 Chapter 97 — The Rhode Island Board of Education Act] › Section 16-22.1-2. - Legislative findings.

§ 16-22.1-2. Legislative findings.
The legislature hereby finds and declares the following:
(1)
A well-educated population benefits Rhode Island, supports its communities, enhances the standard of living for all of its citizens, increases its capacity for success, and lays the foundation for shared prosperity.
(2)
Students in Rhode Island’s public elementary, secondary, and postsecondary schools and institutions should be able to take advantage of as many opportunities as possible to support and extend their learning. Their learning opportunities should allow them to acquire the knowledge and technology skills that will allow them to contribute to and participate in a digital world.
(3)
The number and type of virtual learning programs and courses have increased considerably, and the prevalence of virtual learning continues to grow. Virtual learning utilizes the power and scalability of technology to remove the constraints of traditional classroom learning, which can allow Rhode Island’s students to access personalized learning at any time, in any place, and in ways that complement and extend traditional school settings.
(4)
Public schools, school districts, and postsecondary institutions in Rhode Island should have the freedom to work with teachers, families, and students to create customizable learning opportunities that incorporate technology and reflect effective practices.
(5)
The freedom that comes from technologically-supported opportunities to learn must be accompanied by a clear responsibility to ensure that such opportunities are of high quality, consistent with state standards for teaching and instruction, fulfill high school graduation requirements, reflect the principles of equity and access, and include accountability provisions that assure citizens that any investment of public tax dollars is well spent.
(6)
Rhode Island is one of a few states that has not established the kind of statewide policies on virtual education that will create the optimal conditions for effective learning and instruction.
(7)
The general assembly therefore finds that it is in the best interests of the people of the state of Rhode Island to enact the Rhode Island statewide virtual education act to create comprehensive regulations that will result in high quality, integrated virtual K-20 learning experiences that will engage and challenge students through structured, sustained study.
History of Section.
P.L. 2012, ch. 250, § 1; P.L. 2012, ch. 268, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 16 - Education › Chapter 16-22.1 - The Statewide Virtual Education Act [See Title 16 Chapter 97 — The Rhode Island Board of Education Act] › Section 16-22.1-3. - Purpose.

§ 16-22.1-3. Purpose.
The purpose of this chapter is to provide access to high quality, rigorous, and relevant online learning opportunities for all of Rhode Island’s public school students and to ensure promulgation of virtual learning regulations supporting access to high quality virtual instruction consistently throughout the state.
History of Section.
P.L. 2012, ch. 250, § 1; P.L. 2012, ch. 268, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 16 - Education › Chapter 16-22.1 - The Statewide Virtual Education Act [See Title 16 Chapter 97 — The Rhode Island Board of Education Act] › Section 16-22.1-4. - Definitions.

§ 16-22.1-4. Definitions.
When used in this chapter, the following terms shall have the following meanings:
(1)
“Board” means the Rhode Island board of regents for elementary and secondary education.
(2)
“Commissioner” means the Rhode Island commissioner for elementary and secondary education.
(3)
“Course” means a course of study consistent with subdivision 16-1-5(4) and that meets the requirements of the basic education program.
(4)
“School district” means local education agencies in Rhode Island operated by municipalities and those entities established under §§ 16-77.2-1, 16-77.3, and 16-77.4.
(5)
“Teacher of record” means the teacher responsible for content instruction and determining student grades.
(6)
“Virtual course” means a course in which:
(i)
Instruction and content are delivered primarily through technology, including over the Internet, via television, and through multi-media;
(ii)
A student and teacher may be in physically different locations for a portion of the student’s instructional period;
(iii)
Most instructional activities take place in a technology-supported environment;
(iv)
The technology-supported instructional activities are integral to the students’ academic program;
(v)
Extensive communication between a student and a teacher and among students is emphasized; and
(vi)
A student is not necessarily required to be located on the physical premises of a public school.
(7)
“Virtual course provider” means:
(i)
A public school district or school in Rhode Island that provides virtual courses to:
(A)
Students enrolled in that district or school; or
(B)
Students enrolled in another school district or school;
(ii)
An accredited public or private institution of higher education in Rhode Island or another state that provides virtual courses or programs to students attending public schools in Rhode Island;
(iii)
A not-for-profit or for-profit organization whose work includes offering virtual courses or programs to students attending public schools in Rhode Island.
History of Section.
P.L. 2012, ch. 250, § 1; P.L. 2012, ch. 268, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 16 - Education › Chapter 16-22.1 - The Statewide Virtual Education Act [See Title 16 Chapter 97 — The Rhode Island Board of Education Act] › Section 16-22.1-5. - Regulations for virtual learning.

§ 16-22.1-5. Regulations for virtual learning.
With the direction and approval of the board of regents for elementary and secondary education, the commissioner for elementary and secondary education shall develop and promulgate regulations for Rhode Island school districts and other educational organizations that are using or intend to use virtual courses and other online learning opportunities with K-12 students and adult learners. The regulations shall include:
(1)
Objective, standard criteria that ensures virtual courses and content for K-12 students are aligned with state content standards, meet or exceed the requirements of the state’s basic education program, fulfill high school graduation requirements, and promote articulation with public higher education institutions in the state;
(2)
Objective, standard criteria for school districts to use to select quality providers of virtual courses and online content, which may include local school districts, not-for-profit and for-profit postsecondary institutions, and other organizations;
(3)
Objective, standard criteria that ensures teachers of virtual courses and other online learning activities are appropriately trained and qualified and meet certification requirements set forth by the commissioner of education;
(4)
Objective, standard criteria that ensures that local policies shall not limit student access to quality online learning opportunities;
(5)
Objective, standard criteria that school districts can use to ensure that all learners in Rhode Island have access to high quality, rigorous, and relevant virtual courses and other online learning activities;
(6)
Objective, standard procedures that school districts shall use to report and verify the attendance and participation of a student enrolled in a virtual course;
(7)
Standard accountability provisions that ensure school districts monitor students enrolled in virtual courses and other online learning activities and when appropriate, report on student progress and performance using grade-appropriate and content-appropriate assessments;
(8)
Objective, standard criteria that ensures that RIDE participates in statewide efforts to support virtual learning education with a focus on student access to quality online learning opportunities and ensuring efficiencies gained by coordinating resources;
(9)
Any other requirements or limitations for virtual courses in Rhode Island.
History of Section.
P.L. 2012, ch. 250, § 1; P.L. 2012, ch. 268, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 16 - Education › Chapter 16-22.1 - The Statewide Virtual Education Act [See Title 16 Chapter 97 — The Rhode Island Board of Education Act] › Section 16-22.1-6. - Oversight, quality assurance, reporting, and evaluation of virtual courses.

§ 16-22.1-6. Oversight, quality assurance, reporting, and evaluation of virtual courses.
(a)
The commissioner shall utilize existing evaluation processes and protocols established through regulations adopted by the board of regents to ensure student access to quality and effective online content and instruction.
(b)
Quality assurance reporting shall occur through the existing comprehensive data collection, analysis and accountability procedures at both the local and state level.
(c)
The commissioner shall prepare a report each fiscal year that documents the conditions under which virtual education supports student learning in Rhode Island. The report shall include:
(1)
Virtual course participation rates, with participation information disaggregated for core content areas;
(2)
Expenditures related to virtual education, in aggregate and by district;
(3)
The results of student assessments for students participating in virtual education in core content areas, disaggregated from overall district data; and
(4)
Any other information the commissioner deems relevant.
(d)
The commissioner’s report shall be delivered to the speaker of the house of representatives and to the president of the senate by January 31 of each year, and the information posted for public inspection on the Rhode Island department of education’s website.
History of Section.
P.L. 2012, ch. 250, § 1; P.L. 2012, ch. 268, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 16 - Education › Chapter 16-22.1 - The Statewide Virtual Education Act [See Title 16 Chapter 97 — The Rhode Island Board of Education Act] › Section 16-22.1-7. - Cooperation with public institutions of higher education.

§ 16-22.1-7. Cooperation with public institutions of higher education.
In partnership with the commissioner of higher education, the commissioner of elementary and secondary education shall promote access to high quality virtual courses for all public elementary, secondary, and postsecondary students.
History of Section.
P.L. 2012, ch. 250, § 1; P.L. 2012, ch. 268, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 16 - Education › Chapter 16-22.2 - Biliteracy Seal › Section 16-22.2-1. - Legislative intent.

§ 16-22.2-1. Legislative intent.
(a)
It is the intent of the legislature to encourage excellence for all pupils, and the legislature wishes to publicly recognize pupils for exemplary achievements in academic studies.
(b)
The study of languages other than English in elementary and secondary schools should be encouraged because it contributes to a pupil’s cognitive development and to our national economy and security.
(c)
Proficiency in multiple languages is critical in enabling Rhode Island to participate effectively in a global political, social, and economic context, and in expanding trade with other countries.
(d)
The demand for employees to be fluent in more than one language is increasing both in Rhode Island and throughout the world.
(e)
The benefits to employers in having staff fluent in more than one language are clear and include access to an expanded market; allowing business owners to better serve their customers’ needs; and the sparking of new marketing ideas that better target a particular audience and open a channel of communication with customers.
(f)
It is the intent of the legislature to promote linguistic proficiency and cultural literacy in one or more languages, in addition to English, and to provide recognition of the attainment of those needed and important skills through the establishment of the state seal of biliteracy. A state seal of biliteracy would be affixed on the high school diplomas and transcripts of graduating pupils attaining proficiency in one or more languages, in addition to English.
History of Section.
P.L. 2016, ch. 97, § 1; P.L. 2016, ch. 111, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 16 - Education › Chapter 16-22.2 - Biliteracy Seal › Section 16-22.2-3. - Earning college credit for the Seal of Biliteracy.

§ 16-22.2-3. Earning college credit for the Seal of Biliteracy.
(a)
For admissions purposes, each public university and public community college in this state shall accept the state Silver Seal of Biliteracy and the Gold Seal of Biliteracy as world language coursework if taken during high school and if a student’s high school transcript indicates that he or she will be receiving or has received the state Seal of Biliteracy. The amount of world language coursework credit awarded would be based on the discretion of the respective public university and public community college.
(b)
Each public community college and public university in this state shall establish criteria to translate a state Silver and Gold Seal of Biliteracy into course credit based on world language course equivalencies identified by the community college’s or university’s faculty and staff and, upon request from an enrolled student, the community college or university shall award world language course credit toward a minor, major or concentration in the language or general education course credit to a student who has received a state Seal of Biliteracy. Students enrolled in a public community college or public university who have received a state Seal of Biliteracy must request course credit for their Seal within three (3) academic years after graduating from high school.
(c)
The criteria required pursuant to subsection (b) of this section shall be publicly displayed on the website of each public university and each public community college by June 30, 2024.
History of Section.
P.L. 2022, ch. 399, § 2, effective June 30, 2022; P.L. 2022, ch. 400, § 2, effective June 30, 2022.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 16 - Education › Chapter 16-23 - Textbooks › Section 16-23-1. - Changes in school books.

§ 16-23-1. Changes in school books.
A change may be made in the school books in the public schools of any city or town or regional school district by a vote of a majority of all the members of the school committee, notice of the proposed change having been given, in writing, at a previous regular meeting of the committee; provided, that no change is made in any textbook in the public schools of any city or town or regional school district more often than once in three (3) years, unless by the consent of the department of elementary and secondary education.
History of Section.
G.L. 1896, ch. 60, § 23; G.L. 1909, ch. 67, § 13; G.L. 1923, ch. 70, § 26; G.L. 1938, ch. 178, § 26; impl. am. P.L. 1951, ch. 2752, § 21; G.L. 1956, § 16-23-1; P.L. 1985, ch. 311, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 16 - Education › Chapter 16-23 - Textbooks › Section 16-23-2. - Loan of textbooks.

§ 16-23-2. Loan of textbooks.
(a)
The school committee of every community as it is defined in § 16-7-16 shall furnish upon request, at the expense of the community, textbooks to all students in grades K-12 in the fields of mathematics, science, modern foreign languages, English/language arts and history/social studies, appearing on the list of textbooks published by the commissioner of elementary and secondary education as provided in § 16-23-3, to all pupils of elementary and secondary school grades resident in the community, the textbooks to be loaned to the pupils free of charge, subject to any rules and regulations as to care and custody that the school committee may prescribe. For loan purposes, non-public schools may not change a textbook assignment in a field more often than once in a three (3) year period as required of public schools in accordance with the provisions of § 16-23-1. Nothing in this section shall be construed as forbidding non-public schools from requiring the use of any textbook, consistent with the provisions of this chapter, that does not adhere to said limitation, provided that the textbook is furnished to the student through a means other than the school committee of the student’s city or town of residence.
(b)
Every school committee shall also furnish at the expense of the community all other textbooks and school supplies used in the public schools of the community, the other textbooks and supplies to be loaned to the pupils of the public schools free of charge, subject to any rules and regulations as to care and custody that the school committee may prescribe. School books removed from school use may be distributed to pupils, and any textbook may become the property of a pupil who has completed the use of it in school, subject to rules and regulations prescribed by the school committee.
(c)
Nothing in this section shall be construed to forbid requiring or accepting from a pupil a deposit of a reasonable amount of money as a guaranty for the return of school property other than the books and supplies required in this section to be loaned free of charge, provided that the school committee shall make suitable rules and regulations for the safekeeping and return of deposits; and, provided, further, that in establishing schedules for deposits, the school committee should include provision for waiver of deposit due to financial hardship.
History of Section.
G.L. 1896, ch. 60, § 22; G.L. 1909, ch. 67, § 12; P.L. 1913, ch. 944, § 1; G.L. 1923, ch. 70, § 25; G.L. 1938, ch. 178, § 25; G.L. 1956, § 16-23-2; P.L. 1963, ch. 12, § 2; P.L. 1978, ch. 159, § 1; P.L. 2000, ch. 142, § 1; P.L. 2000, ch. 212, § 1; P.L. 2000, ch. 368, § 1; P.L. 2000, ch. 456, § 1; P.L. 2003, ch. 376, art. 9, § 11; P.L. 2008, ch. 232, § 1; P.L. 2008, ch. 323, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 16 - Education › Chapter 16-23 - Textbooks › Section 16-23-3. - Published textbook list.

§ 16-23-3. Published textbook list.
The commissioner shall publish annually a list of textbooks in use in the public schools in the fields of mathematics, science, modern foreign languages, English/language arts and history/social studies to all students in grades K-12. The list shall be published for the purpose of the loan of the textbooks to all resident pupils as provided for in § 16-23-2 and shall not include any textbooks of a sectarian nature or containing sectarian material.
History of Section.
P.L. 1978, ch. 159, § 3; P.L. 2000, ch. 212, § 1; P.L. 2000, ch. 456, § 1; P.L. 2003, ch. 376, art. 9, § 11.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 16 - Education › Chapter 16-23 - Textbooks › Section 16-23-3.1. - Reimbursements to municipalities for costs of English/language arts and history/social studies textbooks for students in grades K-12.

§ 16-23-3.1. Reimbursements to municipalities for costs of English/language arts and history/social studies textbooks for students in grades K-12.
There is hereby established a textbook reimbursement fund for which the general assembly shall make a specific appropriation. The department of elementary and secondary education shall administer the appropriation. School districts shall submit to the department of elementary and secondary education evidence of the cost of English/language arts and/or history/social studies textbooks that the district has provided to students in grades K-12 pursuant to § 16-23-2. The costs shall be reimbursed from the textbook reimbursement fund by the department of elementary and secondary education upon presentation by a school district of the evidence of cost.
History of Section.
P.L. 2000, ch. 212, § 2; P.L. 2000, ch. 456, § 2; P.L. 2003, ch. 376, art. 9, § 11.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 16 - Education › Chapter 16-23 - Textbooks › Section 16-23-4 - — 16-23-7. Repealed.

§ 16-23-4 — 16-23-7. Repealed.
History of Section.
P.L. 1986, ch. 529, § 1; P.L. 1987, ch. 334, § 1; Repealed by P.L. 2001, ch. 86, § 41, effective July 6, 2001.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 16 - Education › Chapter 16-23 - Textbooks › Section 16-23-8. - Severability.

§ 16-23-8. Severability.
If any part of this chapter is, for any reason, declared void, the invalidity shall not affect the validity of the remaining portions of this chapter.
History of Section.
P.L. 1986, ch. 529, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 16 - Education › Chapter 16-24 - Children With Disabilities [See Title 16 Chapter 97 — The Rhode Island Board of Education Act] › Section 16-24-2. - Regulations of state board.

§ 16-24-2. Regulations of state board.
It shall be the duty of the state board of regents for elementary and secondary education to set up regulations for the purpose of carrying out the intent of this chapter; and the regulations shall also be applicable in the administration of all educational programs operated and/or supported by the department of behavioral healthcare, developmental disabilities and hospitals, human services, and corrections; the department of children, youth, and families and the board of regents shall report to the attorney general for the purpose of enforcing any noncompliance with its regulations for special education. The regulations shall include:
(1)
Criteria to determine who is to be included in the category of a child with a disability and all persons from the age of three (3) to twenty-one (21) years who are functionally limited to such an extent that normal educational growth and development is prevented must be included in establishing the category of a child with a disability;
(2)
Minimum criteria for establishment and/or reimbursement of special facilities (such as public school classes, hospital schools, etc.) for each category of exceptionality;
(3)
Standard accounting procedures including a uniform system of accounts for the determination of the cost of special education and standard reporting requirements, both subject to the prior written approval of the auditor general, and methods of reimbursement;
(4)
Teacher training recommendations and minimum teacher qualifications;
(5)
Transportation;
(6)
Provisions permitting parents, public education agencies, certified public school teachers, support personnel, and their authorized representatives to appeal decisions made pursuant to the regulations; and
(7)
Any other regulations the state board of regents deems necessary to implement this chapter.
History of Section.
P.L. 1952, ch. 2905, § 2; P.L. 1954, ch. 3368, § 1; G.L. 1956, § 16-24-2; P.L. 1971, ch. 210, § 1; P.L. 1976, ch. 130, § 6; P.L. 1987, ch. 410, § 1; P.L. 1989, ch. 126, art. 39, § 2; P.L. 1999, ch. 83, § 26; P.L. 1999, ch. 130, § 26; P.L. 2013, ch. 501, § 38.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 16 - Education › Chapter 16-24 - Children With Disabilities [See Title 16 Chapter 97 — The Rhode Island Board of Education Act] › Section 16-24-3. - Annual census of children with disabilities.

§ 16-24-3. Annual census of children with disabilities.
The school committee of every city and town shall annually ascertain, under regulations prescribed by the state board of regents for elementary and secondary education, in cooperation with the directors of human services and behavioral healthcare, developmental disabilities and hospitals, the number of children residing in the town or city of school age who have disabilities.
History of Section.
P.L. 1952, ch. 2905, § 3; P.L. 1955, ch. 3464, § 1; G.L. 1956, § 16-24-3; Reorg. Plan No. 1, 1970; P.L. 1999, ch. 83, § 26; P.L. 1999, ch. 130, § 26; P.L. 2013, ch. 501, § 38.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 16 - Education › Chapter 16-24 - Children With Disabilities [See Title 16 Chapter 97 — The Rhode Island Board of Education Act] › Section 16-24-4. - Transportation.

§ 16-24-4. Transportation.
The school committee of each city and town shall provide for the transportation to and from school either within the school district or in another school district of the state for any child who has a disability in accordance with the regulations of the state board of regents for elementary and secondary education.
History of Section.
P.L. 1952, ch. 2905, § 4; P.L. 1954, ch. 3368, § 1; G.L. 1956, § 16-24-4; P.L. 1999, ch. 83, § 26; P.L. 1999, ch. 130, § 26.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 16 - Education › Chapter 16-24 - Children With Disabilities [See Title 16 Chapter 97 — The Rhode Island Board of Education Act] › Section 16-24-5. - Joint facilities for special instruction.

§ 16-24-5. Joint facilities for special instruction.
Wherever possible and practical two (2) or more cities or towns may organize in providing educational facilities in a district center for the children in the respective cities or towns who are in need of special care and individual instruction.
History of Section.
P.L. 1952, ch. 2905, § 5; G.L. 1956, § 16-24-5.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 16 - Education › Chapter 16-24 - Children With Disabilities [See Title 16 Chapter 97 — The Rhode Island Board of Education Act] › Section 16-24-6.1. - Repealed.

§ 16-24-6.1. Repealed.
History of Section.
P.L. 1989, ch. 126, art. 39, § 5; Repealed by P.L. 1992, ch. 133, art. 43, § 5, effective July 1, 1992.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 16 - Education › Chapter 16-24 - Children With Disabilities [See Title 16 Chapter 97 — The Rhode Island Board of Education Act] › Section 16-24-6.2. - Repealed.

§ 16-24-6.2. Repealed.
History of Section.
P.L. 1992, ch. 133, art. 43, § 4; P.L. 1993, ch. 138, art. 77, § 2; Repealed by P.L. 1996, ch. 404, § 16, effective August 9, 1996.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 16 - Education › Chapter 16-24 - Children With Disabilities [See Title 16 Chapter 97 — The Rhode Island Board of Education Act] › Section 16-24-7. - Minors with intellectual or developmental disabilities defined.

§ 16-24-7. Minors with intellectual or developmental disabilities defined.
The term “minors with intellectual or developmental disabilities” means all children between the age of three (3) and twenty-one (21) who because of delayed intellectual development, as determined by an individual multidisciplinary evaluation, require specialized instruction appropriate to their individual capacity.
History of Section.
P.L. 1952, ch. 2905, § 3; P.L. 1955, ch. 3464, § 1; G.L. 1956, § 16-24-7; P.L. 1976, ch. 221, § 1; P.L. 2023, ch. 61, § 1, effective June 14, 2023; P.L. 2023, ch. 62, § 1, effective June 14, 2023.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 16 - Education › Chapter 16-24 - Children With Disabilities [See Title 16 Chapter 97 — The Rhode Island Board of Education Act] › Section 16-24-8, 16-24-9. - Repealed.

§ 16-24-8, 16-24-9. Repealed.
History of Section.
P.L. 1952, ch. 2905, § 3; P.L. 1955, ch. 3464, § 1; G.L. 1956, §§ 16-24-8, 16-24-9; Repealed by P.L. 1976, ch. 221, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 16 - Education › Chapter 16-24 - Children With Disabilities [See Title 16 Chapter 97 — The Rhode Island Board of Education Act] › Section 16-24-10. - Arrangements by cities and towns having small numbers of minors with intellectual or developmental disabilities.

§ 16-24-10. Arrangements by cities and towns having small numbers of minors with intellectual or developmental disabilities.
Each city and town that contains fewer than eight (8) minors with intellectual or developmental disabilities may contract with another city or town for the education of the minors or may establish a special class pursuant to the previous provision with the consent of the board of regents for elementary and secondary education. In the event that a city or town does not establish a class for fewer than eight (8) minors with intellectual or developmental disabilities or contract with another city or town, then the city or town shall contract with a suitable day school for instruction adapted to the mental attainments of the minors; provided that the day schools shall be subject to the regulations and supervision of the state board of regents for elementary and secondary education.
History of Section.
P.L. 1952, ch. 2905, § 3; P.L. 1955, ch. 3464, § 1; G.L. 1956, § 16-24-10; P.L. 2023, ch. 61, § 1, effective June 14, 2023; P.L. 2023, ch. 62, § 1, effective June 14, 2023.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 16 - Education › Chapter 16-24 - Children With Disabilities [See Title 16 Chapter 97 — The Rhode Island Board of Education Act] › Section 16-24-11. - Transportation for pupils with intellectual or developmental disabilities.

§ 16-24-11. Transportation for pupils with intellectual or developmental disabilities.
Transportation shall be provided for all pupils attending a special class or suitable day schools.
History of Section.
P.L. 1952, ch. 2905, § 3; P.L. 1955, ch. 3464, § 1; G.L. 1956, § 16-24-11; P.L. 2023, ch. 61, § 1, effective June 14, 2023; P.L. 2023, ch. 62, § 1, effective June 14, 2023.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 16 - Education › Chapter 16-24 - Children With Disabilities [See Title 16 Chapter 97 — The Rhode Island Board of Education Act] › Section 16-24-12. - Repealed.

§ 16-24-12. Repealed.
History of Section.
P.L. 1952, ch. 2905, § 3; P.L. 1955, ch. 3463, § 1; G.L. 1956, § 16-24-12; Repealed by P.L. 1960, ch. 27, § 12.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 16 - Education › Chapter 16-24 - Children With Disabilities [See Title 16 Chapter 97 — The Rhode Island Board of Education Act] › Section 16-24-13. - Classes for children with disabilities in state residential facilities and institutions.

§ 16-24-13. Classes for children with disabilities in state residential facilities and institutions.
Classes for children with disabilities as described in the regulations of the state board of regents for elementary and secondary education shall be provided for those children in all the state institutions and also in state operated and state supported facilities where children with disabilities reside subject to all regulations of the state board of regents for elementary and secondary education.
History of Section.
P.L. 1952, ch. 2905, § 3; P.L. 1955, ch. 3464, § 1; G.L. 1956, § 16-24-13; P.L. 1976, ch. 221, § 1; P.L. 1999, ch. 83, § 26; P.L. 1999, ch. 130, § 26.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 16 - Education › Chapter 16-24 - Children With Disabilities [See Title 16 Chapter 97 — The Rhode Island Board of Education Act] › Section 16-24-14, 16-24-15. - Repealed.

§ 16-24-14, 16-24-15. Repealed.
History of Section.
P.L. 1952, ch. 2905, §§ 6, 8; P.L. 1954, ch. 3368, § 1; P.L. 1955, ch. 3464, § 2; G.L. 1956, §§ 16-24-14, 16-24-15; Repealed by P.L. 1960, ch. 27, § 12, and P.L. 1966, ch. 220, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 16 - Education › Chapter 16-24 - Children With Disabilities [See Title 16 Chapter 97 — The Rhode Island Board of Education Act] › Section 16-24-16. - Approved centers.

§ 16-24-16. Approved centers.
For the purpose of furnishing transportation and providing incidental expenses for the education of minors with intellectual or developmental disabilities, a center approved by the director of behavioral healthcare, developmental disabilities and hospitals shall be decreed to be a school as considered in this chapter.
History of Section.
P.L. 1968, ch. 129, § 1; P.L. 1970, ch. 322, § 1; Reorg. Plan No. 1, 1970; P.L. 2013, ch. 501, § 38; P.L. 2023, ch. 61, § 1, effective June 14, 2023; P.L. 2023, ch. 62, § 1, effective June 14, 2023.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 16 - Education › Chapter 16-24 - Children With Disabilities [See Title 16 Chapter 97 — The Rhode Island Board of Education Act] › Section 16-24-17. - Payment for services.

§ 16-24-17. Payment for services.
No school district shall pay to any provider of either health or educational services to children with disabilities under this title any charges in excess of the rate currently being charged by the provider to any other public or private purchaser for the basic services, including any charges for room and board, nor shall the school district pay any charges in excess of the rate currently being charged by the provider to any other public or private purchaser for any other services deemed necessary by the individual education program. The school districts may request from the provider one hundred twenty (120) days prior to the start of their fiscal year a rate for services to be rendered for the ensuing fiscal year and the providers shall not change the rates during the ensuing fiscal year.
History of Section.
P.L. 1983, ch. 77, § 1; P.L. 1999, ch. 83, § 26; P.L. 1999, ch. 130, § 26.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 16 - Education › Chapter 16-24 - Children With Disabilities [See Title 16 Chapter 97 — The Rhode Island Board of Education Act] › Section 16-24-19. - Special education local advisory committees.

§ 16-24-19. Special education local advisory committees.
(a)
Every public school district shall, on the district’s website:
(1)
Post and maintain either a link to the website of the district’s special education local advisory committee (the “committee”), or provide the contact information for the committee; and
(2)
Post or otherwise list the dates of meetings of the committee during the school year.
(b)
All districts shall maintain and promote committees that are active. As used herein, the term “active” means that the committee meets at least four (4) times per year during the school year; provided, one of these four (4) meetings may take place during the summer months if the district operates an extended school year program for students with disabilities. A parent, guardian, or other legally responsible adult of a student in a district where the committee is not active may notify the school superintendent as to this lack of an active committee, on a written notice form (“notice”) prepared by the district. Upon receipt of a notice under this section, the district superintendent and the director of special education shall investigate the notice to determine if the committee is or is not active. If the committee is not active, the district shall investigate why the committee is not active and shall undertake efforts to make the committee active.
(c)
At every meeting with a parent, guardian, or other responsible adult (“responsible adult”) of a student who is disabled, which meeting involves a review, modification, or continuation of that student’s individual education program or 504 plan, the district shall provide a written notice to the responsible adult that informs the responsible adult of the provisions of this section, including, but not limited to, the contact information for the committee and the dates of scheduled meetings.
History of Section.
P.L. 2023, ch. 383, § 1, effective June 26, 2023; P.L. 2023, ch. 384, § 1, effective June 26, 2023.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 16 - Education › Chapter 16-24.1 - The Rhode Island Autism Spectrum Disorder Education Act › Section 16-24.1-1. - Short title.

§ 16-24.1-1. Short title.
This chapter shall be known and may be cited as “The Rhode Island Autism Spectrum Disorder Education Act.”
History of Section.
P.L. 2009, ch. 201, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 16 - Education › Chapter 16-24.1 - The Rhode Island Autism Spectrum Disorder Education Act › Section 16-24.1-2. - Legislative findings.

§ 16-24.1-2. Legislative findings.
It is hereby found and declared as follows:
(a)
Autism is a neurobiological, developmental disorder that is defined by behavioral and development features.
(b)
Autism is best characterized as a spectrum of disorders that vary in severity of symptoms, age of onset and association with other disorders (e.g. mental retardation, specific language delay, epilepsy) and are unique in their pattern of deficits and areas of relative strengths. They generally have lifelong effects on how children learn to be social beings, to care for themselves, and to participate in the community.
(c)
The incidence of autism has dramatically increased. In 1992, one in ten thousand (10,000) children were diagnosed with “ASD”, yet currently one in one hundred fifty (150) children have this disorder.
(d)
Children and youth with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) offer unique challenges to families, teachers and others who work with them, particularly with nonverbal and verbal communication and behavior problems.
(e)
Medical and psychological experts still do not know the causes of “ASD”, prevention of “ASD” or unified strategies dealing with children and adults afflicted with such disorder.
(f)
Education, both directly of children and youth, and of parents and teachers, is currently the primary form of treatment for Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD).
(g)
The education of children and youth with ASD is accepted as a public responsibility. However, goals, methods and resources available vary greatly from school system to school system, school to school, and class to class.
(h)
Education is defined as the fostering of the acquisition of skills or knowledge- including not only academic learning, but also socialization, adaptive skills, language and communication, and reduction of behavior problems to assist the child to develop independence and social responsibility.
(i)
“ASD” exacts an enormous economic toll on society, including the public school system and family finances.
(j)
The Autism Society of America estimates that the lifetime cost of caring for a child with autism ranges from three million five hundred thousand dollars ($3,500,000) to five million dollars ($5,000,000), and that the United States is facing almost ninety billion dollars ($90,000,000,000) annually in costs for autism.
History of Section.
P.L. 2009, ch. 201, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 16 - Education › Chapter 16-24.1 - The Rhode Island Autism Spectrum Disorder Education Act › Section 16-24.1-3. - Legislative purpose and policy.

§ 16-24.1-3. Legislative purpose and policy.
It shall be the goal and purpose of this act to promote the early diagnosis of ASD and therapeutic strategies for treatment and assistance to individuals with autism. The state of Rhode Island must take the lead in combating the increasingly rapid problems associated with “ASD” and the current treatments and strategies. It is the intent of the legislature in enacting this chapter to reinforce screening for children who are uninsured and/or underinsured through the Rhode Island department of health with assistance from experts, service providers and parents. It is the further intent of the general assembly, subject to appropriation and/or the receipt of other resources designated for these purposes, to authorize the Rhode Island department of health to provide appropriate testing and screening models to determine a proper diagnosis of “ASD” and to create a case management system to properly catalogue such diagnosis. In addition, subject to appropriation and/or the receipt of other resources designated for these purposes, this chapter shall authorize programs of outreach, education, increased awareness and cultural competence to the statewide community.
History of Section.
P.L. 2009, ch. 201, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 16 - Education › Chapter 16-24.1 - The Rhode Island Autism Spectrum Disorder Education Act › Section 16-24.1-4. - Implementation.

§ 16-24.1-4. Implementation.
To implement the state’s autism public policies, the following steps should be taken:
(1)
The department of health shall develop a coordinated plan for collecting prevalence data and reporting it;
(2)
The department of human services shall continue to raise public awareness especially among families regarding the need for early intervention and how to access it;
(3)
The department of human services shall continue its current practice, to raise awareness of early intervention providers and families for earlier assessment and intervention;
(4)
The department of human services will increase the capacity and improve consistency of early intervention programs and providers;
(5)
The department of education shall develop a “Needs Assessment Document” to perform a random sampling in the public schools to differentiate between what student needs are being met and what needs are not being met. This information will be used to identify how needs are currently being met and how that information can be used to develop a way to meet the unmet needs; identify ways the existing system could be modified to support the unmet needs;
(6)
The department of education in conjunction with Rhode IslandCollege shall produce a series of instructional modules that could be embedded into existing pre-service courses in multi-disciplines; and
(7)
The department of education in conjunction with Rhode Island College shall develop a continuing education certificate in autism spectrum disorders at Rhode Island College (to be offered jointly with Salve Regina University and the University of Rhode Island).
History of Section.
P.L. 2009, ch. 201, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 16 - Education › Chapter 16-25 - Education of Children Who Are Deaf or Blind [Repealed.] › Section 16-25-1. - Repealed.

§ 16-25-1. Repealed.
History of Section.
G.L. 1896, ch. 85, § 1; P.L. 1896, ch. 322, § 1; G.L. 1909, ch. 100, § 1; G.L. 1923, ch. 186, § 1; impl. am. P.L. 1951, ch. 2752, § 21; G.L. 1956, § 16-25-1; P.L. 1963, ch. 160, § 1; P.L. 1971, ch. 89, art. 2, § 1; P.L. 1999, ch. 83, § 28; P.L. 1999, ch. 130, § 28; Repealed by P.L. 2012, ch. 241, art. 12, § 8, effective July 1, 2012.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 16 - Education › Chapter 16-25 - Education of Children Who Are Deaf or Blind [Repealed.] › Section 16-25-2. - Repealed.

§ 16-25-2. Repealed.
History of Section.
G.L. 1896, ch. 85, § 2; G.L. 1909, ch. 100, § 2; G.L. 1923, ch. 112, § 2; G.L. 1938, ch. 186, § 2; impl. am. P.L. 1952, ch. 2752, § 21; G.L. 1956, § 16-25-2; Repealed by P.L. 2012, ch. 241, art. 12, § 8, effective July 1, 2012.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 16 - Education › Chapter 16-25 - Education of Children Who Are Deaf or Blind [Repealed.] › Section 16-25-3. - Repealed.

§ 16-25-3. Repealed.
History of Section.
G.L. 1896, ch. 85, § 3; G.L. 1909, ch. 100, § 3; P.L. 1920, ch. 1879, § 1; G.L. 1923, ch. 112, § 3; G.L. 1938, ch. 186, § 3; impl. am. P.L. 1951, ch. 2752, § 21; G.L. 1956, § 16-25-3; Repealed by P.L. 1992, ch. 272, § 1, effective July 21, 1992; Repealed by P.L. 2012, ch. 241, art. 12, § 8, effective July 1, 2012.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 16 - Education › Chapter 16-25 - Education of Children Who Are Deaf or Blind [Repealed.] › Section 16-25-4. - Repealed.

§ 16-25-4. Repealed.
History of Section.
G.L. 1909, ch. 100, § 4; P.L. 1913, ch. 945, § 1; G.L. 1923, ch. 112, § 4; G.L. 1938, ch. 186, § 4; impl. am. P.L. 1951, ch. 2752, § 21; G.L. 1956, § 16-25-4; P.L. 1999, ch. 83, § 28; P.L. 1999, ch. 130, § 28; Repealed by P.L. 2012, ch. 241, art. 12, § 8, effective July 1, 2012.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 16 - Education › Chapter 16-25 - Education of Children Who Are Deaf or Blind [Repealed.] › Section 16-25-5. - Repealed.

§ 16-25-5. Repealed.
History of Section.
G.L. 1909, ch. 100, § 5; P.L. 1913, ch. 945, § 1; G.L. 1923, ch. 112, § 5; P.L. 1929, ch. 1341, § 1; G.L. 1938, ch. 186, § 5; impl. am. P.L. 1951, ch. 2752, § 21; G.L. 1956, § 16-25-5; P.L. 1992, ch. 272, § 2; P.L. 1999, ch. 83, § 28; P.L. 1999, ch. 130, § 28; Repealed by P.L. 2012, ch. 241, art. 12, § 8, effective July 1, 2012.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 16 - Education › Chapter 16-25 - Education of Children Who Are Deaf or Blind [Repealed.] › Section 16-25-6. - Repealed.

§ 16-25-6. Repealed.
History of Section.
G.L. 1896, ch. 85, § 4; P.L. 1898, ch. 545, § 1; P.L. 1902, ch. 1048, § 1; G.L. 1909, ch. 100, § 4; redesignated § 6 by P.L. 1913, ch. 945, § 2; G.L. 1923, ch. 112, § 6; P.L. 1935, ch. 2250, § 149; G.L. 1938, ch. 186, § 6; impl. am. P.L. 1939, ch. 660, § 65; impl. am. P.L. 1951, ch. 2752, § 21; G.L. 1956, § 16-25-6; P.L. 1976, ch. 130, § 3; P.L. 1992, ch. 272, § 2; Repealed by P.L. 2012, ch. 241, art. 12, § 8, effective July 1, 2012.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 16 - Education › Chapter 16-25 - Education of Children Who Are Deaf or Blind [Repealed.] › Section 16-25-7. - Repealed.

§ 16-25-7. Repealed.
History of Section.
G.L. 1938, ch. 186, § 7; P.L. 1940, ch. 802, § 8; impl. am. P.L. 1951, ch. 2752, § 21; G.L. 1956, § 16-25-7; Repealed by P.L. 1992, ch. 272, effective July 21, 1992.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 16 - Education › Chapter 16-25.1 - Braille Instruction for Blind Students [See Title 16 Chapter 97 — The Rhode Island Board of Education Act] › Section 16-25.1-1. - Definitions.

§ 16-25.1-1. Definitions.
As used in this chapter:
(1)
“Blind student” means an individual who is eligible for special education services and who:
(i)
Has a visual acuity of 20/200 or less in the better eye with correcting lenses or has a limited field of vision so that the widest diameter subtends an angular distance of no greater than twenty degrees; or
(ii)
Has a medically indicated expectation of visual deterioration.
(2)
“Braille” means the system of reading and writing through touch commonly known as standard English Braille.
(3)
“Individualized education program” means a written statement developed for a student eligible for special education services pursuant to the federal Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, 20 U.S.C. § 1400 et seq.
History of Section.
P.L. 1993, ch. 389, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 16 - Education › Chapter 16-25.1 - Braille Instruction for Blind Students [See Title 16 Chapter 97 — The Rhode Island Board of Education Act] › Section 16-25.1-2. - Development of program.

§ 16-25.1-2. Development of program.
In developing the individualized educational program for those students who demonstrate loss of functional vision that renders the reading of print inefficient, the presumption shall be that proficiency in Braille reading and writing is essential for the student to achieve satisfactory educational progress. The assessment performed for each visually impaired student shall include a Braille skills inventory, including a statement of strengths and deficits. Braille instruction and use shall not be required if, in the course of developing the student’s individualized education program, all members of the planning and placement team concur that the student’s visual impairment does not affect reading and writing performance commensurate with his or her ability. The provision of other appropriate services shall not be precluded by the use of Braille. Nothing in this section shall be construed to require the exclusive use of Braille if other special education services are appropriate to the student’s educational needs.
History of Section.
P.L. 1993, ch. 389, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 16 - Education › Chapter 16-25.1 - Braille Instruction for Blind Students [See Title 16 Chapter 97 — The Rhode Island Board of Education Act] › Section 16-25.1-3. - Sufficiency of instruction.

§ 16-25.1-3. Sufficiency of instruction.
Instruction in Braille reading and writing shall be sufficient to enable each blind student to communicate effectively and efficiently with the same level of proficiency expected of the student’s peers of comparable ability and grade level. The student’s individualized education program shall specify:
(1)
The results obtained from the inventory required pursuant to § 16-25.1-2;
(2)
How Braille shall be implemented as the primary mode for learning through integration with other classroom activities;
(3)
The date on which Braille instruction shall commence;
(4)
The length of the period of instruction and the frequency and duration of each instructional session;
(5)
The level of competency in Braille reading and writing to be achieved by the end of the period and the objective assessment measures to be used; and
(6)
If a decision has been made pursuant to § 16-25.1-2 that Braille instruction or use is not required for the student:
(i)
A statement that the decision was reached after a review of pertinent literature describing the educational benefits of Braille instruction and use; and
(ii)
A specification of the evidence used to determine that the student’s ability to read and write effectively without special education service is not impaired.
History of Section.
P.L. 1993, ch. 389, § 1.