RIDE, Commissioner Infante-Green Release Blueprint & Strategic Plan for Differently-Abled Students’ Success
Published on Wednesday, October 15, 2025
PROVIDENCE, RI – Education Commissioner Angélica Infante-Green today released the Rhode Island Department of Education’s (RIDE) Blueprint & Strategic Plan for Differently-Abled Students’ Success, which sets out a new and bold vision for the educational success of Rhode Island’s differently-abled students. Released in recognition of Dyslexia Awareness Month this October, the Blueprint is grounded in research and was developed through a multi-year collaborative process which engaged students, educators, administrators, parents, advocacy organizations, and community leaders.
“As a mother of a child on the spectrum, I know personally that special education is not just a segment of our education system; it is a cornerstone of our commitment to preparing all children for positive life outcomes,” said Commissioner Infante-Green. “Every child deserves to learn in a welcoming environment where they are nurtured, supported, and pushed to reach their highest potential. This Blueprint and Strategic Plan will guide us through essential work that will lay the foundation for a future where every child, regardless of ability, can succeed academically, socially, and emotionally.”
Rhode Island has been successful in implementing special education requirements that are consistent with the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) and often goes beyond what is required. More than simply compliance-driven inclusion, this Blueprint and Strategic Plan put forward an educational approach which encourages a learning environment that fosters a culture of true belonging and support for all students.
“Every student in Rhode Island has their own unique capability and background and it is our duty to ensure they have the proper support and opportunities to reach their potential,” said Governor Dan McKee. “This Blueprint aims to ensure that all students, without exception, are rightfully engaged and supported in our schools. I applaud RIDE’s commitment to ensuring all students have opportunities to thrive and thank all of the partners who contributed to this initiative,”
There are an estimated 26,000 differently-abled students in Rhode Island. Ninety nine percent (99%) of Rhode Island schools serve at least one student with an Individualized Education Program (IEP), which documents the specially designed instruction, supports and services needed for the student to progress in the general education setting. Seventy-two percent (72%) of differently-abled students in Rhode Island are in general education classrooms for the majority of each school day.
“As we continue the work of education all of our students, this Blueprint is a clear, actionable, plan to meet the needs of Rhode Island’s differently-abled students, who deserve a rigorous education that prepares them for college, career, and life after school,” said Education Chair Mike Grey.
“Special education isn’t just a segment of our education system. It is a cornerstone of our commitment to preparing all Rhode Island students for positive life outcomes,” said Jessica Hassell, Director of Special Education for Lincoln Public Schools. “This Blueprint is another step forward in Rhode Island’s commitment to providing an accessible, high-quality education for all students.”
“This Strategic Plan is centered on the shared vision for a more inclusive, responsive, and effective education system for our state’s differently-abled students,” said Louise Seitsinger, Assistant Superintendent of Schools in North Providence.
Rhode Island’s Blueprint & Strategic Plan for Differently-Abled Students’ Success can be downloaded here.
###