Court Monitoring Determines Providence Schools Compliant with Preschool Special Education Settlement
The Providence Public School District (PPSD) and the Rhode Island Department of Education (RIDE) have fulfilled their obligations under a 2023 settlement addressing delays in preschool special education services. A court-appointed monitor confirmed the district’s full compliance, allowing the federal class action lawsuit to be closed.
Background of the Settlement
The class action was initiated in July 2023 by Parents Leading for Educational Equity (PLEE), joined by three children and their parents. They alleged that PPSD and RIDE had failed to provide essential educational accommodations for hundreds of children aged 3 to 5 with learning disabilities.
Monitor’s Findings
An independent court monitor’s report found substantial compliance by the Providence Public School Department with the August 2023 settlement agreement.
The announcement was made jointly by the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) of Rhode Island and the Rhode Island Center for Justice, confirming that school officials satisfied all requirements outlined in the settlement.
Outcome and Next Steps
With compliance verified, Providence schools can now move forward beyond the litigation phase and focus on maintaining timely, high-quality special education services for preschool students.
Author’s summary: Federal oversight confirms Providence schools met settlement terms, closing the case and marking a key milestone in preschool special education reform.