Dept. of Education praises RI reforms

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WPRI) -- U.S. Education Secretary Arne Duncan says Rhode Island has made "remarkable progress" since being awarded a Race to the Top grant.

"Rhode Island has set a clear path forward on comprehensive education reform that will better support teachers and principals and enable student growth for years to come," Duncan said. "They have overcome challenges and proved what’s possible when everyone works together. We look forward to seeing their continued progress and strong execution of key efforts that will empower educators to transform their classrooms into models of 21st-century learning.”

In 2010, the state received $75 million to implement a series of new education initiatives. So far, the state has spent $21.3 million of that grant, including $4.1 million to implement educator evaluations, $2.1 million for transition to the Common Core State Standards and for curriculum development, and $1.25 million to develop data systems to improve instruction.

"I am very pleased that Secretary Duncan and the Department of Education have recognized the hard work and dedication of Rhode Island educators," RI education Comissioner Deborah Gist said. "I am especially proud that Rhode Island educators are working together to transform education in our state.”

Rhode Island is one pace to use the rest of the funds from the four-year grant by the end of 2014.