State will recommend returning Providence schools to local control this summer

Rhode Island Education Commissioner Angélica Infante-Green announced plans to recommend full local control of Providence Public Schools by July 1, 2026. In a community letter, Infante-Green stated the decision followed consultations with key stakeholders, including the Providence School Board, City Council, Mayor’s Office, General Assembly, and Governor Dan McKee. The recommendation will be presented to the Rhode Island Council on Elementary and Secondary Education during its May 26, 2026, meeting. Initially, officials expected a transition beginning this year and concluding in July 2025. Governor McKee revealed the updated timeline during a 'Connect to the Capitol' segment on NBC 10 News, though he did not disclose whether state intervention influenced the delay. The state assumed control of Providence Public Schools in November 2019, following a critical report by Johns Hopkins. Infante-Green’s recommendation includes specific expectations for local governance leaders to ensure continued progress in the district. The Providence School Board will discuss the matter at a meeting later this week. The shift aims to restore decision-making authority to local officials after over six years of state oversight.