Rhode Island lawmakers are reaching out to the public for input on student transportation issues. A special legislative commission, led by Rep. Terri Cortvriend (D-Dist. 72, Portsmouth, Middletown) and Sen. Linda Ujifusa (D-Dist. 11, Portsmouth, Bristol), is set to meet on February 10 to hear from residents in person.
The 13-member group is taking a close look at how students get to school, aiming to find cost-effective solutions and potentially update state laws on the statewide transportation program.
Can’t make it to the meeting? No problem. You can email your thoughts to Christine O’Connor at COconner@rilegislature.gov. If possible, send your comments as a PDF.
The February 10 meeting kicks off at 3:45 p.m. in the State House’s House Lounge. Education officials and school representatives will also be there to share their insights.
On the agenda:
- Dr. Mario Carreño from the R.I. Department of Education (RIDE) will talk about current private school transportation funding.
- Brian Cordeiro of the Independent Schools Association of Rhode Island and William F. Klements from the Diocese of Providence’s Catholic Schools will discuss ways to amplify parent voices in student transportation.
- Public school superintendents Ana C. Riley (Bristol Warren Regional) and Jeanine Nota Masse (Cranston) will offer perspectives from different parts of the state.
Right now, Rhode Island law requires local school districts to pay for transportation for students attending schools outside their districts. This includes kids with special needs or those enrolled in private, parochial, charter, or career and technical schools within their assigned transportation region.
Districts have to use a statewide transportation service run by RIDE or get special permission to use their own buses without reimbursement.
The commission includes members from both sides of the legislature, education officials, school committee members, and transportation experts.
Can’t make it in person? No worries. The meeting will be on Capitol Television and streamed live on the Rhode Island Legislature’s website.
