Providence Schools Comply with Preschool Special Education Settlement
A court-appointed monitor reported that the Providence Public School District (PPSD) and the Rhode Island Department of Education have met the terms of a 2023 settlement aimed at addressing delays in special education services for preschool students. This fulfillment allows for closure of a related federal class action lawsuit.
An independent evaluation confirmed substantial compliance by PPSD with the conditions outlined in the August 2023 agreement.
The Providence Public School District can now move beyond a federal class action lawsuit regarding special education for hundreds of preschoolers after meeting all the settlement terms.
The announcement was made public by the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) of Rhode Island and the Rhode Island Center for Justice on Wednesday morning.
Background of the Settlement
The settlement originated from a lawsuit filed in July 2023 in the U.S. District Court for the District of Rhode Island. Plaintiffs included Parents Leading for Educational Equity (PLEE) alongside three children and their families.
They alleged that Providence schools and the Rhode Island Department of Education failed to provide necessary accommodations for learning disabilities to hundreds of children aged 3 to 5.
Plaintiffs claimed that both Providence schools and RIDE neglected to provide required special education supports for preschool children with disabilities.
Impact and Next Steps
- The settlement addresses long-standing delays in special education service provision.
- Providence schools are recognized for meeting all settlement requirements.
- The federal case is set to be closed following this confirmation.
This development marks a significant step forward in ensuring access to timely special education services for preschool-aged children in Providence.
Author's summary: The Providence Public School District fulfilled its special education settlement for preschoolers, resolving a federal lawsuit over service delays and improving support for young children with disabilities.