Commissioner of Education Angélica Infante-Green | Rhode Island Department of Elementary and Secondary Education
The Rhode Island Department of Education (RIDE) has introduced a new statewide framework aimed at strengthening school counseling and student readiness from pre-kindergarten through grade 12. The announcement was made at the “Let’s Get Ready” Community of Practice event held at the Rhode Island Nursing Education Center, where education leaders gathered to discuss the implementation of updated graduation requirements.
During the event, RIDE also announced the start of the “Commissioner’s Counselors” program, a collaboration with The College Board designed to increase counseling resources and capacity within school districts.
These initiatives are part of RIDE’s broader strategy to reimagine high school and ensure students graduate with necessary skills and support. Following the approval of new Readiness-based Graduation Requirements—set to take effect for students graduating in 2028—RIDE has been offering guidance under its “Let’s Get Ready” Action Plan. This plan emphasizes increasing student engagement and expanding learning experiences connected to real-world opportunities.
“School counselors are important sources of support for our students and RIDE’s new Framework will provide vital guidance for academic success,” said Governor Dan McKee. “As we continue to make progress in improving academic achievement statewide, we need to continue to build systems of support that set up all students for lifelong success.”
“At RIDE, we are committed to ensuring every student has the support and tools to succeed whether they choose college or career after high school,” said Commissioner Angélica Infante-Green. “Prior to the pandemic, we took a deep dive into the high school experience and recognized that too many students were not adequately prepared. As part of our work to enhance the high school experience and create stronger pathways to post-secondary success, we have put together this Framework and are launching initiatives that will strengthen counseling programs that are essential for academic success.”
The new framework aligns with national standards set by The American School Counselor Association (ASCA) National Model. It highlights post-secondary readiness through measures such as FAFSA completion and career planning, integrates Individual Learning Plans (ILPs), employs Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS), and focuses on using data-driven interventions for improved student outcomes.
“There is a shared responsibility across the entire school community to create a cohesive support system for students,” said Westerly Superintendent Dr. Mark Garceau. “This Framework shows how comprehensive school counseling fits within the state’s vision for student success and broader school improvement efforts.”
Development of the framework included input from more than 1,800 survey respondents, visits to 20 schools, and collaboration with counselors, administrators, and community partners.
“As a former School Counselor, I know the importance of having a ‘big picture’ approach to students’ skills and goals,” said Donna Sweet, Principal at Middletown High School. “This framework is a guide to educators as we’re providing supports for students to have exposure and access to the skills needed to be successful for a lifetime.”
Through the “Commissioner’s Counselors” initiative, districts will receive access to College Board tools, training aligned with ASCA standards, technical assistance in developing ILP systems, advising resources, and targeted support for underserved groups.
“We’re already seeing the positive impact of comprehensive school counseling programs across our state,” said Joseph Goho, Superintendent of North Providence Public Schools. “This framework is a tool that educators can use to ensure that all students receive the support and skills they need to thrive in school and beyond.”
Rhode Island has also set a goal for at least 30 schools statewide to achieve Recognized ASCA Model Program (RAMP) status by 2030. Schools attaining this recognition demonstrate adherence to national best practices; research indicates these schools tend toward higher SAT scores among their students as well as increased college enrollment rates. To help reach this target, planning grants will be available for schools seeking RAMP designation.
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