Rhode Island 2026 Regular Session

Rhode Island House Bill H7024

Introduced
1/9/26  

Caption

RELATING TO EDUCATION -- COOPERATIVE SERVICE AMONG SCHOOL DISTRICTS

Impact

The impact of H7024 on state laws will specifically address how educational governance operates in Rhode Island, particularly concerning urban school districts. The bill allows designated school districts to continue collaborative efforts focused on providing alternative education programs and diagnostic services to students who have underperformed in traditional educational settings. These changes are significant for districts like Providence, Pawtucket, and East Providence, which are authorized to manage these collaborative services more effectively through a structured governance process.

Summary

House Bill H7024 aims to amend the composition and governance structure of the Urban Collaborative in Rhode Island. The legislation proposes that the Urban Collaborative be governed by a board of trustees, primarily consisting of superintendents from member school districts and appointed members from the Council on Elementary and Secondary Education. This amendment reflects a shift towards a more centralized governance model, intended to enhance the effectiveness of cooperative educational services among districts with shared challenges, particularly in urban areas.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding H7024 may center on the potential implications of introducing a board of trustees for the Urban Collaborative. Critics may argue that the centralization of decision-making could undermine local school committees' autonomy, potentially impacting how specific educational needs are addressed in diverse communities. Proponents, however, may advocate for the clearer governance structure as a way to streamline efforts and enhance educational outcomes in urban districts that face similar challenges.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

RI H5292

Requires that the basic education program data collection information for students that attend career and technical education schools be charged to the receiving school district and not the sending school district.

RI S0937

Requires that the basic education program data collection information for students that attend career and technical education schools be charged to the receiving school district and not the sending school district.

RI S0912

Requires all certified independent or district charter schools upon application for a renewal of said charter or an application for a new charter school to provide a union neutrality clause in the charter.

RI H5336

Amends the composition of the Urban Collaborative and provide that the collaborative be governed by a board of trustees.

RI H5593

Amends the composition of the Urban Collaborative and provide that the collaborative be governed by a board of trustees.

RI H5114

Amends the composition of the Urban Collaborative and provides that the collaborative be governed by a board of trustees.

RI S0390

Would provide for better communication between sending and receiving districts regarding students receiving special education services.

RI S0424

Provides that the department of elementary and secondary education, in consultation with a workgroup composed of various stakeholders, develop a funding formula for school districts sending students to career and technical programs outside their district.

RI H5839

RELATING EDUCATION -- COUNCIL ON ELEMENTARY AND SECONDARY EDUCATION

RI S0774

RELATING EDUCATION -- COUNCIL ON ELEMENTARY AND SECONDARY EDUCATION

Similar Bills

RI S2208

Amends the composition of the urban collaborative in Providence and provides that it is governed by a board of trustees.

RI H7271

Amends the composition of the urban collaborative in Providence and provides that it is governed by a board of trustees.

RI H5114

Amends the composition of the Urban Collaborative and provides that the collaborative be governed by a board of trustees.

RI H5336

Amends the composition of the Urban Collaborative and provide that the collaborative be governed by a board of trustees.

RI H5593

Amends the composition of the Urban Collaborative and provide that the collaborative be governed by a board of trustees.

RI H7023

Amends the composition of the Urban Collaborative and provides that the collaborative be governed by a board of trustees.

MA S2193

Relative to educational collaboratives

CA SB569

An act to add Article 5 (commencing with Section 14190) to Chapter 2 of Part 5 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code, relating to the Department of Transportation.