Rhode Island Department of Education, Providence Public Schools, City of Providence Reach Agreement for Increased Municipal Funding for Schools

Published on Friday, November 22, 2024

PROVIDENCE, RI - Today, the Rhode Island Department of Education, Providence Public School District (PPSD), and City of Providence announced that they have reached a settlement agreement that will provide PPSD millions in additional municipal funding in support of critical student services and programs. The settlement agreement, which spans four fiscal years, was reached after the parties engaged in months of mediation and close negotiations over the last week after a ruling from Rhode Island Superior Court Associate Justice Jeffrey A. Lanphear. As part of the agreement, the City of Providence will provide PPSD: 

  • An additional $4 million for Fiscal Year 2024, bringing the City’s total contribution for that fiscal year to $134 million; 
  • An additional $11 million for Fiscal Year 2025, bringing the City’s total contribution for that fiscal year to $146.5 million; 
  • A $147 million total contribution for Fiscal Year 2026 (which equates to an $11.5 million increase from the City’s initial allocation for Fiscal Year 2025 of $135.5 million); and 
  • A $147 million base contribution for Fiscal Year 2027, plus a percentage increase matching the percentage increase in total State educational aid in that fiscal year.

“I am pleased that the City is taking steps to fund the schools in accordance with their legal obligation, and in a manner that begins to resolve the structural deficit the District faced this year. We are all committed to building a world-class school system that meets the needs and priorities of Providence students, families, and educators, and the City’s commitment to provide additional municipal funding will help ensure PPSD stays the course,” said Commissioner Angélica Infante-Green. “We reaffirm our commitment to working closely with all Providence stakeholders to continue the momentum in our work to offer all Providence students a high-quality education.” 

“The Council on Elementary and Secondary Education commends RIDE, PPSD, and City of Providence leaders for working collaboratively to reach a deal that prioritizes direct investments in kids,” said Council on Elementary and Secondary Education Chair Patti DiCenso. “The success of municipalities and schools is intertwined, and there is no better community asset to invest in for future success than our children. Great cities have great schools. With this agreement in place, PPSD is now in a stronger position to help students thrive.” 

"I'm relieved that we've reached an agreement that puts to rest the threatened cuts to our students in the current school year and ensures predictable funding for our schools in the years ahead," said Mayor Brett P. Smiley. "This settlement demonstrates the entire city’s commitment to education but also to our taxpayers. My Administration remains focused on building a stronger, more sustainable future for our students, their families and our neighbors." 

"The City Council Committee on Claims and Pending Suits looks forward to thoroughly reviewing this settlement and its implications in short order," said Councilor John Goncalves. "We will do so with the top priorities of reducing harm to Providence taxpayers and families, funding our schools adequately, and protecting essential city services." 

“The agreement we have reached with the City of Providence for additional local funding for PPSD in the coming years has positioned PPSD for greater stability and future success,” said Superintendent Dr. Javier Montañez. “As Superintendent and a Providence taxpayer, parent, and grandparent, my work is guided by what is in the best interest of students, and this agreement will ensure we avoid cuts to vital services and programs our children rely on. I am deeply appreciative of City leaders’ partnership to reach a compromise that will benefit students across the capital city.” 

A copy of the full agreement is attached.