reglab/statecodes huggingface dataset:
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 16 - Education › Chapter 16-63 - Adult Education [See Title 16 Chapter 97 — The Rhode Island Board of Education Act] › Section 16-63-16. - Severability.

§ 16-63-16. Severability.
If any provision of this chapter, or of any regulation issued under it, or the application of it to any person or circumstance, is held invalid by a court of competent jurisdiction, the remainder of this chapter or of any regulation or application to other persons or circumstances shall not be affected thereby. The invalidity of any section or sections or parts of any section or sections of this chapter shall not affect the validity of the remainder of the chapter.
History of Section.
P.L. 1981, ch. 416, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 16 - Education › Chapter 16-63 - Adult Education [See Title 16 Chapter 97 — The Rhode Island Board of Education Act] › Section 16-63-17. - Liberal construction of chapter required.

§ 16-63-17. Liberal construction of chapter required.
This chapter shall be construed liberally in aid of its declared purpose.
History of Section.
P.L. 1981, ch. 416, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 16 - Education › Chapter 16-63 - Adult Education [See Title 16 Chapter 97 — The Rhode Island Board of Education Act] › Section 16-63-18. - High school equivalency testing.

§ 16-63-18. High school equivalency testing.
(a)
In selecting which tests shall be utilized and recognized by the state in the granting of high school equivalency diplomas, the board shall consider all available high school equivalency tests that meet and adhere to Rhode Island academic standards and shall give priority to those tests that are provided at the lowest cost for test takers. In selecting said tests, the board shall consider:
(1)
The recognition of the test, or lack thereof, by other states;
(2)
The portability of the test; and
(3)
Such other criteria that meet the needs of the test takers.
(b)
The board shall adopt, and provide funding for, a rule or regulation granting a waiver of fees associated with the high school equivalency test for individuals with limited income and who can prove a financial hardship; provided, however, that to be eligible for a fee waiver, an individual must have received at least a minimum passing score on the high school equivalency practice test, or pertinent section of the test. The waiver may be based on a sliding scale based on the individual’s income.
History of Section.
P.L. 2014, ch. 412, § 1; P.L. 2014, ch. 441, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 16 - Education › Chapter 16-64 - Residence of Children for School Purposes › Section 16-64-1. - Residency of children for school purposes.

§ 16-64-1. Residency of children for school purposes.
Except as provided by law or by agreement, a child shall be enrolled in the school system of the city or town where he or she resides. A child shall be deemed to be a resident of the city or town where his or her parents reside. If the child’s parents reside in different cities or towns the child shall be deemed to be a resident of the city or town in which the parent having actual custody of the child resides. In cases where a child has no living parents, has been abandoned by his or her parents, or when parents are unable to care for their child on account of parental illness or family break-up, the child shall be deemed to be a resident of the city or town where the child lives with his or her legal guardian, natural guardian, or other person acting in loco parentis to the child. An emancipated minor shall be deemed to be a resident of the city or town where he or she lives. Children placed in group homes, in foster care, in child caring facilities, or by a Rhode Island state agency or a Rhode Island licensed child placing agency shall be deemed to be residents of the city or town where the group home, child caring facility, or foster home is located for the purposes of enrollment, and this city or town shall be reimbursed or the child’s education shall be paid for in accordance with § 16-64-1.1. In all other cases a child’s residence shall be determined in accordance with the applicable rules of the common law. Where a child is a resident in a dwelling which lies in more than one municipality, the parent(s) or guardian shall choose which school district the child shall attend without payment of costs as tuition.
History of Section.
P.L. 1982, ch. 367, § 1; P.L. 1987, ch. 169, § 1; P.L. 1998, ch. 68, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 16 - Education › Chapter 16-64 - Residence of Children for School Purposes › Section 16-64-1.2. - Designation of residency of children in state care for purposes of financial responsibility under § 16-64-1.1(c) — Effect of designation of residence.

§ 16-64-1.2. Designation of residency of children in state care for purposes of financial responsibility under § 16-64-1.1(c) — Effect of designation of residence.
(a)
An initial factual determination and designation of the residence of the parent(s) of a child placed in the care and custody of the state shall be made by the family court in accordance with § 33-15.1-2. The director of the department of children, youth, and families shall incorporate any designation of parent’s residence on the child’s intra-state education identification card and update the designation pursuant to § 42-72.4-1(b).
(b)
If no factual determination and designation of the residence of the parent(s) of a child placed in the care and custody of the state is made by the family court pursuant to § 16-64-1.2(a), then the department of elementary and secondary education shall designate the city or town to be responsible for the per-pupil special education cost of education to be paid to DCYF or to the facility providing educational services for children in state care pursuant to § 16-64-1.1(c).
(c)
The department of elementary and secondary education shall designate the city or town to be responsible for the per-pupil special education cost of education to be paid to DCYF for children in state care who have neither a father, mother, nor guardian living in the state or whose residence can be determined in the state or who have been surrendered for adoption or who have been freed for adoption by a court of competent jurisdiction using the following criteria: (1) last known Rhode Island residence of the child’s father, mother, or guardian prior to moving from the state, dying, surrendering the child for adoption or having parental rights terminated; (2) when the child’s parents are separated or divorced and neither parent resides in the state, the last known residence of the last parent known to have lived in the state. This designation by the department of elementary and secondary education shall be incorporated on the child’s intra-state education identification card.
(d)
The designation of a city or town pursuant to subsection (a), (b), or (c) of this section shall constitute prima facie evidence of parents’ residence in the city or town and/or the city or town’s financial responsibility for the child’s education as provided in § 16-64-1.1. Pending any final decision under § 16-64-6 that a different city, town or agency bears any financial responsibility, the commissioner shall be authorized to order the general treasurer to deduct the amount owed from the designated community’s school aid and to pay this amount to DCYF.
History of Section.
P.L. 1998, ch. 68, § 3; P.L. 2001, ch. 77, art. 22, § 3.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 16 - Education › Chapter 16-64 - Residence of Children for School Purposes › Section 16-64-1.3. - Educational responsibility for children in group homes and other residential placements.

§ 16-64-1.3. Educational responsibility for children in group homes and other residential placements.
(a)
The city or town in which a foster home, group home, or other residential facility that does not include the delivery of educational services is located shall be responsible for the free appropriate public education of any child residing in those placements, including all procedural safeguards, evaluation, and instruction in accordance with regulations under chapter 24 of this title, for any period during which a child is residing in the city or town. The city or town shall coordinate its efforts with any other city or town to which a child moves when exiting the city or town responsible under this subsection.
(b)
The city or town responsible for payment under § 16-64-1.1(c) for payment of a city or town’s per pupil special education cost to DCYF for a child placed in a residential facility, group home, or other residential facility that includes the delivery of educational services shall be responsible for the free, appropriate public education, including all procedural safeguards, evaluation and instruction in accordance with regulations under chapter 24 of this title.
History of Section.
P.L. 1998, ch. 68, § 3; P.L. 2001, ch. 77, art. 22, § 3.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 16 - Education › Chapter 16-64 - Residence of Children for School Purposes › Section 16-64-2. - Retention of residence.

§ 16-64-2. Retention of residence.
A child shall be eligible to receive education from the city or town in which the child’s residence has been established until his or her residence has been established in another city or town and that city or town has enrolled the child within its school system, unless the commissioner of elementary and secondary education, pursuant to § 16-64-6, has ordered otherwise. Nothing contained in this section shall be construed to prohibit a city or town in its own discretion from enrolling a child within its school system before a child has established technical residency within the city or town. The commissioner of elementary and secondary education shall promulgate any rules that may be needed to implement the educational provisions of the Stewart B. McKinney Homeless Assistance Act (P.L. 105-220), 42 U.S.C. § 11431 et seq.
History of Section.
P.L. 1982, ch. 367, § 1; P.L. 1989, ch. 150, § 1; P.L. 1989, ch. 273, § 1; P.L. 2001, ch. 77, art. 22, § 3.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 16 - Education › Chapter 16-64 - Residence of Children for School Purposes › Section 16-64-3. - Burden of proof.

§ 16-64-3. Burden of proof.
In any proceeding where it is alleged that a child’s residence has been changed due to illness of a parent, the break-up of the child’s family, abandonment of the child by his or her parents, death of the child’s parents, or emancipation of the child, the party alleging the existence of these circumstances shall have the burden of proof and shall make proof by a preponderance of the evidence.
History of Section.
P.L. 1982, ch. 367, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 16 - Education › Chapter 16-64 - Residence of Children for School Purposes › Section 16-64-4. - Effect of guardianship.

§ 16-64-4. Effect of guardianship.
The appointment of a guardian of the person of a child pursuant to chapter 15.1 of title 33 shall not operate to change a child’s residence unless the child takes up residence with the guardian and unless the guardian has been appointed for a substantial reason other than to change the child’s residence for the purpose of enrolling the child in another school system.
History of Section.
P.L. 1982, ch. 367, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 16 - Education › Chapter 16-64 - Residence of Children for School Purposes › Section 16-64-5. - Children under care and control of state agency.

§ 16-64-5. Children under care and control of state agency.
In cases where the director of a Rhode Island state agency considers it likely that a child under his or her care and control will be subject to a short term placement or series of short term placements, the director may petition the commissioner of elementary and secondary education to designate the child’s original city or town of residence as having continuing responsibility for the child’s education. This designation shall be effective for period not greater than two (2) months unless an extension is granted by the commissioner. Nothing contained in this section shall be construed to prohibit any school system from providing transportation for the child without charge. Disputes under this section including disputes relating to transportation shall be resolved in accordance with § 16-64-6.
History of Section.
P.L. 1982, ch. 367, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 16 - Education › Chapter 16-64 - Residence of Children for School Purposes › Section 16-64-6. - Disputes over residency — Determination proceedings.

§ 16-64-6. Disputes over residency — Determination proceedings.
When a school district or a state agency charged with educating children denies that it is responsible for educating a child on the grounds that the child is not a resident of the school district or that the child is not the educational responsibility of the state agency, the dispute shall, on the motion of any party to the dispute, be resolved by the commissioner of elementary and secondary education or the commissioner’s designee who shall hold a hearing and determine the issue. At any hearing, all parties in interest shall have the right to a notice of the hearing and an opportunity to present evidence and argument on their own behalf. A hearing under § 16-39-2 shall not be a prerequisite to a hearing under this section. The commissioner of elementary and secondary education shall have power to issue any interim orders pending a hearing needed to insure that a child receives education during the pendency of any matter. Interim orders and all final orders shall be enforceable in the superior court for Providence County at the request of any interested party and shall be subject to review in the superior court in accordance with the Rhode Island Administrative Procedures Act, chapter 35 of title 42.
History of Section.
P.L. 1982, ch. 367, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 16 - Education › Chapter 16-64 - Residence of Children for School Purposes › Section 16-64-7. - Pupil records — Transfer and access.

§ 16-64-7. Pupil records — Transfer and access.
When the family court enters an order pursuant to the provisions of § 33-15.1-2 vesting the right to control a child’s education with the department of children, youth, and families, that department shall be empowered to authorize and direct the transfer of public school pupil records pertaining to the child when the child is moved to a new city or town through action of the department of children, youth, and families.
History of Section.
P.L. 1985, ch. 71, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 16 - Education › Chapter 16-64 - Residence of Children for School Purposes › Section 16-64-8. - Completion of semester of school year.

§ 16-64-8. Completion of semester of school year.
When a student changes his or her residence during the course of a semester the student shall be allowed to complete the semester in his or her original city or town of residence. If the student is a senior or about to enter his or her senior year the student shall be allowed to complete his or her senior year in his or her original city or town of residence. No school district shall be required to provide transportation to a student exercising the option permitted by this section. No school district shall require a student to exercise the option allowed in this section. No school district shall be required to pay tuition for a student who exercises the option allowed in this section. Nothing in this section shall be construed to diminish the rights of any person covered by the McKinney Homeless Assistance Act (P.L. 105-220), 42 U.S.C. § 11431 et seq.
History of Section.
P.L. 1989, ch. 94, § 1; P.L. 2001, ch. 77, art. 22, § 3.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 16 - Education › Chapter 16-64 - Residence of Children for School Purposes › Section 16-64-9. - Repealed.

§ 16-64-9. Repealed.
History of Section.
P.L. 1997, ch. 145, § 1; P.L. 1997, ch. 159, § 1; Repealed by P.L. 2001, ch. 77, art. 22, § 4, effective July 1, 2001. For present similar provisions, see § 16-64-1.1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 16 - Education › Chapter 16-65 - Continuing Education for Legislators › Section 16-65-1. - Continuing education benefits for legislators.

§ 16-65-1. Continuing education benefits for legislators.
Members of the general assembly shall be entitled to audit courses at state colleges and universities without the payment of tuition, fees, or charges. Admission into particular courses shall be limited to one course per semester per legislator and where space is available.
History of Section.
P.L. 1984, ch. 390, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 16 - Education › Chapter 16-66 - The Rhode Island School Staff Institute › Section 16-66-2. - Findings.

§ 16-66-2. Findings.
The general assembly has found and declares that:
(1)
In-service education is different from pre-service education. Effective staff development programs are directed at educational improvements and also encourage the professional development of individual participants.
(2)
In-service education, whether local, state, or federally supported, must be designed as an integral part of the school program.
(3)
The most effective in-service education programs are those with a high degree of participant control.
(4)
In-service education programs most beneficial to students are those designed primarily to improve the quality of teaching in a school or department of a school.
(5)
In-service education programs most beneficial to school department staff are those that are designed to improve professional practices and/or provide professional growth and stimulation.
History of Section.
P.L. 1985, ch. 59, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 16 - Education › Chapter 16-66 - The Rhode Island School Staff Institute › Section 16-66-5. - Institute program grant funds — Restrictions on use.

§ 16-66-5. Institute program grant funds — Restrictions on use.
Institute program grants may be used to pay for consultants, materials, and certain incidental expenses when these are approved by the department of elementary and secondary education; they may not be used to pay for tuition, stipends, substitutes for participants, meals, conference space, or indirect costs.
History of Section.
P.L. 1985, ch. 59, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 16 - Education › Chapter 16-66 - The Rhode Island School Staff Institute › Section 16-66-6. - Advisory board.

§ 16-66-6. Advisory board.
(a)
The school staff institute advisory board is created, consisting of the following seventeen (17) members: eight (8) school teachers, four (4) to be appointed by the president of the Rhode Island Federation of Teachers and four (4) to be appointed by the president of the National Education Association of Rhode Island; one superintendent of schools, to be appointed by the president of the Rhode Island Association of School Superintendents; one school principal, to be appointed by the president of the Rhode Island Association of School Principals; one school committee member, to be appointed by the president of the Rhode Island Association of School Committees; three (3) higher education representatives, one to be appointed by the commissioner of higher education in consultation with the president of the University of Rhode Island, one to be appointed by the commissioner of higher education in consultation with the president of Rhode Island College, and one representing a nonpublic institution of higher education and appointed by the commissioner of elementary and secondary education in consultation with the commissioner of higher education; one public member to be appointed by the commissioner of elementary and secondary education; one member of the house of representatives, to be appointed by the speaker of the house; and one member of the senate, to be appointed by the president of the senate. The house and senate appointees shall be nonvoting members of the advisory board.
(b)
With the exception of the house and senate members, the members of the advisory board shall serve two (2) year terms until the time as their successors shall be appointed. The house and senate members shall serve at the pleasure of the appointing authority.
(c)
The advisory board shall organize itself at a meeting called by the speaker of the house in July of each odd numbered year.
(d)
Members of the advisory board shall receive no compensation.
(e)
The advisory board shall elect a chairperson and any other officers as it deems appropriate.
(f)
The advisory board will review and make recommendations to the commissioner of elementary and secondary education relative to all aspects of the Rhode Island school staff institute including, but not limited to, implementation and delivery of services and funding, program approvals and denials, fiscal data, evaluation, and dissemination.
(g)
The advisory board shall submit a report on the institute to the general assembly in January of each year; this report shall include but not be limited to recommendations regarding institute funding for the next fiscal year.
History of Section.
P.L. 1985, ch. 59, § 1; P.L. 1985, ch. 410, § 1; P.L. 2001, ch. 86, § 57; P.L. 2001, ch. 180, § 17.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 16 - Education › Chapter 16-67 - Rhode Island Literacy and Dropout Prevention Act [See Title 16 Chapter 97 — The Rhode Island Board of Education Act] › Section 16-67-1. - Declaration of policy.

§ 16-67-1. Declaration of policy.
The state of Rhode Island is committed to equal education opportunity for all citizens. To ensure the fulfillment of this commitment, all persons must have the opportunity to acquire the skills of literacy: basic reading, writing, speaking, listening, and mathematics skills. The opportunity to acquire these skills must be provided in programs designed to meet the varying needs of students. Special attention must be given to prevent students from dropping out of school. Research indicates that large classes prevent teachers from meeting the learning requirements of pupils on an individualized basis, where smaller classes enable teachers to use more varied, innovative, and effective learning approaches. We can increase effectiveness of our schools by promoting smaller classes in kindergarten through third grade. A foundation in these skill areas provides students with the skills they need to complete their elementary and secondary studies, to graduate from high school, and to participate in, and to contribute to, our society as literate and productive adults.
History of Section.
P.L. 1987, ch. 582, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 16 - Education › Chapter 16-67 - Rhode Island Literacy and Dropout Prevention Act [See Title 16 Chapter 97 — The Rhode Island Board of Education Act] › Section 16-67-3. - Coordination with programs for special populations.

§ 16-67-3. Coordination with programs for special populations.
It is required that programs serving special population students be coordinated with the requirements of this chapter. All these programs shall focus on literacy objectives to the extent appropriate for each special population. All coordinating efforts shall not absolve participating school districts from meeting all requirements of state and/or federal laws, regulations, and mandates. In particular, programs for supplementary literacy instruction for educationally disadvantaged students in kindergarten through grade twelve (12) shall meet the following criteria which shall be included in a plan submitted annually and reviewed and approved by the department of elementary and secondary education:
(1)
Services shall be based on an annual assessment of need;
(2)
Programs shall have performance objectives evaluated annually;
(3)
Programs must provide supplementary services;
(4)
Programs must be monitored by the department of elementary and secondary education; and
(5)
School districts must keep records on the above and afford access to the records by the department of elementary and secondary education.
History of Section.
P.L. 1987, ch. 582, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 16 - Education › Chapter 16-67 - Rhode Island Literacy and Dropout Prevention Act [See Title 16 Chapter 97 — The Rhode Island Board of Education Act] › Section 16-67-5. - Definition of educationally disadvantaged students.

§ 16-67-5. Definition of educationally disadvantaged students.
For the purposes of this chapter, an educationally disadvantaged student is one whose educational readiness or educational achievement is below average for his or her age or grade level in terms of specified expected outcomes in literacy: reading, writing, speaking, listening, or mathematics. The commissioner of elementary and secondary education may include achievement test results, readiness test results, and specified expected student outcomes in reading, writing, speaking, listening, and mathematics in determining service cutoff points.
History of Section.
P.L. 1987, ch. 582, § 1; P.L. 1988, ch. 336, § 3.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 16 - Education › Chapter 16-67 - Rhode Island Literacy and Dropout Prevention Act [See Title 16 Chapter 97 — The Rhode Island Board of Education Act] › Section 16-67-6. - Regulations of the board of regents for elementary and secondary education.

§ 16-67-6. Regulations of the board of regents for elementary and secondary education.
It shall be the duty of the board of regents for elementary and secondary education to establish and promulgate regulations for the purpose of carrying out the intent of this chapter.
History of Section.
P.L. 1987, ch. 582, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 16 - Education › Chapter 16-67 - Rhode Island Literacy and Dropout Prevention Act [See Title 16 Chapter 97 — The Rhode Island Board of Education Act] › Section 16-67-7. - State advisory council.

§ 16-67-7. State advisory council.
A state advisory council shall be established by the department of elementary and secondary education. The council shall be composed of fifteen (15) members, to be appointed by the commissioner of elementary and secondary education, and be representative of the population to be served or have demonstrated an interest in programs for educationally disadvantaged students. In appointing members to the state advisory council, the commissioner shall ensure that membership be broadly representative of the school population and include representation by teachers, parents, administrators, and school board members. Members of the state advisory council shall serve at the pleasure of the commissioner, shall serve without compensation, and shall be residents of the state. The advisory council shall advise the commissioner on all matters pertaining to the literacy and dropout prevention program.
History of Section.
P.L. 1987, ch. 582, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 16 - Education › Chapter 16-67.1 - Rhode Island High School Dropout Prevention Act of 2007 [See Title 16 Chapter 97 — The Rhode Island Board of Education Act] › Section 16-67.1-1. - Short title.

§ 16-67.1-1. Short title.
This chapter shall be known and may be cited as the “Rhode Island High School Dropout Prevention Act of 2007.”
History of Section.
P.L. 2007, ch. 226, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 16 - Education › Chapter 16-67.1 - Rhode Island High School Dropout Prevention Act of 2007 [See Title 16 Chapter 97 — The Rhode Island Board of Education Act] › Section 16-67.1-3. - Defining the protocol for a student to leave school.

§ 16-67.1-3. Defining the protocol for a student to leave school.
(a)
Children who have not yet attained eighteen (18) years of age may not withdraw from school before graduation unless they have previously developed an alternative learning plan in accordance with § 16-19-1(b) and, after implementation of the plan:
(1)
The student, the student’s parent(s)/guardian, and an administrator agree to the withdrawal;
(2)
At the exit interview, the student and the student’s parent(s)/guardian provide written acknowledgement of the withdrawal that meets the requirements of subsection (a)(4)(iv) of this section;
(3)
The school principal provides written consent for the student to withdraw from school; and/or
(4)
The withdrawal is:
(i)
Due to documented financial hardship and the need of the individual to be employed to support the individual’s family or a dependent;
(ii)
Due to documented illness;
(iii)
By order of a court that has jurisdiction over the student; or
(iv)
Accompanied by a written acknowledgement of a withdrawal under subsection (a)(2) of this section which must include a statement that the student and the student’s parent(s)/guardian understand that withdrawal from school is likely to reduce the student’s future earnings and increase the student’s likelihood of being unemployed in the future.
(b)
If a child of the age described in subsection (a) is habitually absent from school and the school is unable to contact the parent(s)/guardian, the school may withdraw the child from enrollment provided that its attempts to contact the parent(s)/guardian by telephone, regular and registered mail, and home visit are documented. If a child who has been withdrawn from enrollment under this subsection returns to school, or if the school mistakenly withdraws the child from enrollment, the child shall immediately be re-enrolled.
(c)
An extended withdrawal pursuant to § 16-19-1 may be authorized that is not intended to be a permanent withdrawal but which is extended because of unique difficulties and interruptions that many students are experiencing because of the COVID-19 pandemic.
History of Section.
P.L. 2007, ch. 226, § 1; P.L. 2008, ch. 475, § 17; P.L. 2011, ch. 338, § 2; P.L. 2011, ch. 376, § 2; P.L. 2022, ch. 389, § 2, effective June 30, 2022; P.L. 2022, ch. 390, § 2, effective June 30, 2022.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 16 - Education › Chapter 16-67.1 - Rhode Island High School Dropout Prevention Act of 2007 [See Title 16 Chapter 97 — The Rhode Island Board of Education Act] › Section 16-67.1-4. - Rhode Island dropout prevention “double-up for college” program.

§ 16-67.1-4. Rhode Island dropout prevention “double-up for college” program.
(a)
The commissioner of the Rhode Island department of elementary and secondary education and the commissioner of the Rhode Island board of governors for higher education may develop a plan for a high school “fast track to college” program that offers qualified individuals an opportunity to earn a high school diploma while earning credits for a certificate program or an associates degree.
(b)
To be eligible to earn a high school diploma under this section, an individual must be either:
(1)
Nineteen (19) years of age and not currently enrolled in a school; or
(2)
Seventeen (17) years of age to nineteen (19) years of age and have consent from the high school that the individual is currently enrolled in.
(c)
To complete the requirements for a high school diploma under this section, the individual must meet the graduation requirements of his or her local educational authority.
(d)
The department, in collaboration with the board of governors for higher education, shall report to the Rhode Island general assembly on the feasibility of establishing this program and the potential cost of a pilot program by January 1, 2008.
History of Section.
P.L. 2007, ch. 226, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 16 - Education › Chapter 16-67.2 - Education of Children with Dyslexia and Related Disorders › Section 16-67.2-1. - Teacher professional development and training.

§ 16-67.2-1. Teacher professional development and training.
No later than September 1, 2021, the department of elementary and secondary education shall develop and make available on its website resources to assist school districts in developing a program to ensure all teachers and school administrators have access to materials to support professional awareness of best practices on:
(1)
Recognition of the characteristics of dyslexia, related disorders, dyscalculia, and dysgraphia; and
(2)
Evidence-based interventions and accommodations for dyslexia, related disorders, dyscalculia, and dysgraphia.
History of Section.
P.L. 2019, ch. 112, § 2; P.L. 2019, ch. 155, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 16 - Education › Chapter 16-67.2 - Education of Children with Dyslexia and Related Disorders › Section 16-67.2-2. - Learning laboratory.

§ 16-67.2-2. Learning laboratory.
(a)
The department of elementary and secondary education (the “department”) shall develop a collaborative learning laboratory (the “laboratory”) to assist and promote training for parents, guardians, caregivers, and teachers in:
(1)
Recognition of the characteristics of dyslexia, related disorders, dyscalculia, and dysgraphia; and
(2)
Evidence-based interventions and accommodations for dyslexia, related disorders, dyscalculia, and dysgraphia.
(b)
In developing the laboratory, the department shall work with professionals and experts who have proven, data-driven models of success in teaching students with dyslexia. The department shall seek to foster partnerships among educators and practitioners from both the public and private teaching sectors, with the goal of ensuring that every student in this state who has dyslexia shall be appropriately and adequately screened, diagnosed, and provided therapy, instruction, and accommodations as needed.
History of Section.
P.L. 2019, ch. 112, § 2; P.L. 2019, ch. 155, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 16 - Education › Chapter 16-67.2 - Education of Children with Dyslexia and Related Disorders › Section 16-67.2-3. - Department of elementary and secondary education responsibilities.

§ 16-67.2-3. Department of elementary and secondary education responsibilities.
(a)
The department of elementary and secondary education (the “department”) shall disseminate, using web-based technology, research-based best-practice methods by which the state and district school boards and committees shall evaluate and improve the professional development system of teachers in regard to dyslexia.
(b)
The department shall also disseminate, using web-based technology, professional development in the use of integrated digital instruction at schools that include middle grades.
History of Section.
P.L. 2019, ch. 112, § 2; P.L. 2019, ch. 155, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 16 - Education › Chapter 16-67.2 - Education of Children with Dyslexia and Related Disorders › Section 16-67.2-4. - Dyslexia and related disorder education in teacher preparation programs.

§ 16-67.2-4. Dyslexia and related disorder education in teacher preparation programs.
No later than the 2021-2022 school year, the department of elementary and secondary education (the “department”) shall collaborate with the board of education to require that all department-approved undergraduate educator preparation programs for licensure as a teacher of elementary education and as a reading specialist/consultant include instruction in:
(1)
Dyslexia professional awareness of the characteristics of dyslexia and related disorders;
(2)
Evidence-based interventions and accommodations for dyslexia and related disorders; and
(3)
Completion of a classroom educator program providing instruction in the use of specific dyslexia- and related disorder-targeted methods of teaching.
History of Section.
P.L. 2019, ch. 112, § 2; P.L. 2019, ch. 155, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 16 - Education › Chapter 16-67.2 - Education of Children with Dyslexia and Related Disorders › Section 16-67.2-5. - Research commission.

§ 16-67.2-5. Research commission.
(a)
No later than January 1, 2020, the general assembly shall form a joint study research commission (the “commission”) consisting of nine (9) members to be appointed as follows: one with expertise in educating students with learning disabilities to be appointed by the speaker of the house; one with expertise in educating students with learning disabilities to be appointed by the president of the senate; one with expertise in educating students with learning disabilities to be appointed by the governor; one member of the house of representatives, who shall be appointed by the speaker of the house; one member of the senate, who shall be appointed by the president of the senate; three (3) teachers with expertise in dyslexia to be appointed jointly by the speaker of the house and the president of the senate; and one parent of a student with dyslexia, who shall be appointed by the speaker of the house.
(b)
The purpose of the commission shall be to study the possibility and feasibility of establishing two (2) schools, to be located on the university of Rhode Island and Rhode Island college campuses, that would be dedicated to the instruction of dyslexic children and the development of instructional techniques and professional development programs used to improve the instruction and identification of dyslexia and other learning disabilities.
(c)
The commission shall be funded by the general assembly, and shall visit no fewer than four (4) schools dedicated to the education of dyslexic children, provided that if a school selected for visitation is greater than forty (40) miles away from the state of Rhode Island’s capitol building, the visit may be conducted virtually.
(d)
The commission shall render a report to the governor and to the general assembly prior to the commencement of the 2021 legislative session on the ways in which the department can enforce realistic goals pertaining to the increased availability of quality instruction for:
(1)
Students with dyslexia and other learning disabilities; and
(2)
Instructors, administrators, and special educators regarding dyslexia and other learning disabilities.
History of Section.
P.L. 2019, ch. 112, § 2; P.L. 2019, ch. 155, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 16 - Education › Chapter 16-68 - Governor’s Schools [Repealed.] › Section 16-68-1 - — 16-68-9. Repealed.

§ 16-68-1 — 16-68-9. Repealed.
History of Section.
P.L. 1988, ch. 336, § 4; P.L. 1990, ch. 65, art. 36, § 1; P.L. 1992, ch. 133, art. 10, § 1; Repealed by P.L. 1993, ch. 75, § 1, effective July 6, 1993.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 16 - Education › Chapter 16-69 - 60/40 Funding of Public Schools [See Title 16 Chapter 97 — The Rhode Island Board of Education Act] › Section 16-69-1. - Short title.

§ 16-69-1. Short title.
This chapter shall be known as the “60/40 Funding of Public Schools Act”.
History of Section.
P.L. 1988, ch. 336, § 12.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 16 - Education › Chapter 16-69 - 60/40 Funding of Public Schools [See Title 16 Chapter 97 — The Rhode Island Board of Education Act] › Section 16-69-2. - Definition of state-local support.

§ 16-69-2. Definition of state-local support.
(a)
In defining the percentage of state support to fund elementary and secondary education, the state’s share shall be defined to include appropriations for the following:
(1)
Chapter 4 of this title, Permanent School Fund;
(2)
Chapter 5 of this title, State Aid;
(3)
Chapter 7 of this title, Foundation Level School Support;
(4)
Chapter 15 of this title, Teachers’ Pension;
(5)
Chapter 23 of this title, Textbooks;
(6)
Chapter 24 of this title, Children with disabilities;
(7)
Chapter 25 of this title, Education of children who are Deaf or Blind;
(8)
Chapter 42 of this title, Education of Gifted Children;
(9)
Chapter 45 of this title, Regional Vocational Schools;
(10)
Chapter 54 of this title, Education of Limited-English Proficient Students;
(11)
Chapter 67 of this title, Rhode Island Literacy and Drop-Out Prevention Act; and
(12)
Other educational laws as may be enacted by the general assembly.
(b)
The local percentage shall be defined to include all city and town revenues the school district obtains, excluding fees from admissions to school events, and federal aid.
(c)
In determining the local percentage of school aid, the board of regents for elementary and secondary education shall adopt rules and regulations pertaining to the definition.
History of Section.
P.L. 1988, ch. 336, § 12; P.L. 1999, ch. 83, § 38; P.L. 1999, ch. 130, § 38.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 16 - Education › Chapter 16-69 - 60/40 Funding of Public Schools [See Title 16 Chapter 97 — The Rhode Island Board of Education Act] › Section 16-69-3. - Reports.

§ 16-69-3. Reports.
Each year the board of regents for elementary and secondary education shall make a report to the governor and the general assembly which shall include the following:
(1)
The percent of state support of public education for the last completed fiscal year.
(2)
The projected percent of state support for the current fiscal year.
(3)
The estimated percent of state support for the ensuing fiscal year.
(4)
Recommended steps for the governor and the general assembly to meet spending targets to achieve or maintain 60/40 state-local funding.
History of Section.
P.L. 1988, ch. 336, § 12.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 16 - Education › Chapter 16-69 - 60/40 Funding of Public Schools [See Title 16 Chapter 97 — The Rhode Island Board of Education Act] › Section 16-69-4. - Repealed.

§ 16-69-4. Repealed.
History of Section.
P.L. 1988, ch. 336, § 12; Repealed by P.L. 1996, ch. 404, § 24, effective August 9, 1996.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 16 - Education › Chapter 16-70 - The College Crusade Scholarship [See Title 16 Chapter 97 — the Rhode Island Board of Education Act] › Section 16-70-1. - Short title.

§ 16-70-1. Short title.
This chapter shall be known and may be cited as the “College Crusade Scholarship Act.”
History of Section.
P.L. 1990, ch. 311, § 1; P.L. 2017, ch. 227, § 2; P.L. 2017, ch. 239, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 16 - Education › Chapter 16-70 - The College Crusade Scholarship [See Title 16 Chapter 97 — the Rhode Island Board of Education Act] › Section 16-70-2. - Legislative findings.

§ 16-70-2. Legislative findings.
It is found and declared as follows:
(1)
Rhode Island must continue to develop the educational and career and technical skills of its students for its continued economic development, prosperity, and for maintaining and improving its quality of life.
(2)
The present and future workforce requires ever higher levels of educational and career and technical training in order to improve the economic prosperity of our state and nation.
(3)
With regard to high school graduation and college going rates, the state’s low-income students continue to lag behind their peers.
(4)
A comprehensive, long-range strategy is essential if this critical problem is to be addressed. This plan will need to incorporate the elements of programs that have demonstrated success in supporting underrepresented, first-generation and low-income students, including appropriate incentives to encourage and support these students toward the goal of graduating from school and pursuing and completing higher levels of education and training.
(5)
This plan will require the involvement and support of families, educators, and the community at large, working closely with underserved students, and must provide students with a well-organized and directed advisory program to include intensive orientation and training of these advisors.
History of Section.
P.L. 1990, ch. 311, § 1; P.L. 2017, ch. 227, § 2; P.L. 2017, ch. 239, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 16 - Education › Chapter 16-70 - The College Crusade Scholarship [See Title 16 Chapter 97 — the Rhode Island Board of Education Act] › Section 16-70-3. - Program for the support of the college crusade established.

§ 16-70-3. Program for the support of the college crusade established.
The council on postsecondary education is empowered to establish and provide as part of the operation of the office of the postsecondary commissioner methods and procedures for the state’s support of the college crusade scholarship and provide financial and technical assistance as needed.
History of Section.
P.L. 1990, ch. 311, § 1; P.L. 2017, ch. 227, § 2; P.L. 2017, ch. 239, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 16 - Education › Chapter 16-70 - The College Crusade Scholarship [See Title 16 Chapter 97 — the Rhode Island Board of Education Act] › Section 16-70-4. - Council on postsecondary education support program — Powers and duties.

§ 16-70-4. Council on postsecondary education support program — Powers and duties.
The council on postsecondary education shall have the following powers and duties:
(1)
To prepare with the assistance of the commissioner of postsecondary education and to present annually to the state budget officer in accordance with § 35-3-4, as part of the state higher education budget, a line-item budget request specifically designated as the state’s share of support for the college crusade of Rhode Island. The budget shall be designated as a specific, line-item budget request and shall be presented as part of the budget of the postsecondary commissioner.
(2)
To provide, through its office of the postsecondary commissioner, the authority to designate the college crusade of Rhode Island, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization registered with the Rhode Island secretary of state, as the entity that will administer and operate all program services and manage scholarship resources.
History of Section.
P.L. 1990, ch. 311, § 1; P.L. 2017, ch. 227, § 2; P.L. 2017, ch. 239, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 16 - Education › Chapter 16-70 - The College Crusade Scholarship [See Title 16 Chapter 97 — the Rhode Island Board of Education Act] › Section 16-70-5. - Budget and appropriations.

§ 16-70-5. Budget and appropriations.
The general assembly shall annually appropriate any sums as it deems necessary as the state’s share for the support and maintenance of the college crusade, including operational and scholarship support, and the state controller is authorized and directed to draw his or her orders upon the general treasurer for the payment of the appropriations upon receipt by him or her of the proper voucher the office of the postsecondary commissioner may provide. The office of the postsecondary commissioner shall present the voucher to the state controller no later than the last day of the first month of the fiscal year for which the appropriation is made and this appropriation shall be remitted to the accounts of the college crusade of Rhode Island by the state treasurer no later than the last day of the second month of the fiscal year.
History of Section.
P.L. 1990, ch. 311, § 1; P.L. 2017, ch. 227, § 2; P.L. 2017, ch. 239, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 16 - Education › Chapter 16-70 - The College Crusade Scholarship [See Title 16 Chapter 97 — the Rhode Island Board of Education Act] › Section 16-70-6. - Audit requirements.

§ 16-70-6. Audit requirements.
The college crusade of Rhode Island shall complete an annual audit completed by prior to the employment of private auditors. Audit work papers of the private auditors shall be made available upon request to the auditor general and/or the director of administration for their review, at the completion of the audit. The audit report shall be furnished to the auditor general and the director of administration.
History of Section.
P.L. 1997, ch. 30, art. 1, § 18; P.L. 2017, ch. 227, § 2; P.L. 2017, ch. 239, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 16 - Education › Chapter 16-71 - The Rhode Island Educational Records Bill of Rights › Section 16-71-2. - Notification.

§ 16-71-2. Notification.
The parents or guardians of each child enrolled in an elementary or secondary school within the state, or the student if over the age of eighteen (18), shall annually be notified in writing by the school district responsible for the operation of the school of their rights under this chapter. Agencies and institutions of elementary and secondary education shall provide for the need to effectively notify parents of students identified as having a primary or home language other than English.
History of Section.
P.L. 1991, ch. 306, § 1.