Commissioner of Education Angélica Infante-Green | Rhode Island Department of Elementary and Secondary Education
A recent report from the Annenberg Institute at Brown University has recognized the Rhode Island Department of Education (RIDE) for its commitment to supporting educators through professional learning and high-quality instructional materials. The report, titled "Investing in Growth: A Roadmap for Advancing Teacher Professional Learning in Rhode Island," outlines how RIDE’s initiatives have aimed to improve student academic achievement across the state.
“Expanding access to professional learning for educators is a vital part of Rhode Island’s strategy to ensure high-quality instruction and learning in every classroom,” said Commissioner Angélica Infante-Green. “In alignment with Governor McKee's focus and commitment to improving education, RIDE is proud of the progress we’re making with our partners to support and empower educators through expanded development opportunities and greater access to high-quality instructional materials. The recent report from the Annenberg Institute at Brown University provides thoughtful recommendations while recognizing the value of collaboration and the positive impact of investing in professional learning for educators.”
The Annenberg Institute’s findings point out that RIDE’s implementation of the Right to Read Act and related curriculum legislation has led districts across Rhode Island to adopt quality curriculum resources and provide targeted training aligned with current research on reading instruction. Through programs such as the Instructional Coaching Corps and use of federal Comprehensive Literacy State Development Grant funds, RIDE has increased funding for coaching positions and statewide teacher training.
Nearly all school districts now have common planning time built into their schedules, which allows teachers to collaborate, analyze student data, and refine teaching methods with help from coaches and administrators. Additionally, RIDE has promoted cross-district cooperation via its Professional Learning Network so educators can share effective practices.
Rhode Island nearly doubled its budget for educator professional development over the past decade by using temporary federal relief funding. This increase meant a higher proportion of education spending was dedicated to teacher learning compared with most other states during that period.
In August 2024, RIDE secured $40 million in federal Comprehensive Literacy State Development grant funding for local education agencies throughout Rhode Island. Of this amount, $6.5 million will be allocated during the first year for implementing the RI Reads program, which aims to improve literacy rates statewide while providing financial support for teacher training.
RIDE continues its collaboration with local districts on curriculum improvements and structured literacy instruction efforts designed to boost student performance. As it manages these grants, RIDE plans ongoing work with schools to expand coaching models and ensure that teachers’ professional learning aligns closely with strategies proven to support academic success.
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