Providence, R.I. – Education Commissioner Angélica Infante‑Green addressed rumors about her tenure on Thursday, noting that Governor‑elect Helena Foulkes has indicated she will look for a new commissioner. Infante‑Green said she remains committed to the state’s education system and will continue to work closely with the Department of Education while the transition is evaluated.
Potential continuation or departure
When asked whether she expects to remain in her role, Infante‑Green replied, “I am focused on serving the students and families of Rhode Island right now. If the governor‑elect decides a change is needed, I will respect that decision and ensure a smooth hand‑off.” She added that the department is currently reviewing its strategic plan and that any leadership change would be coordinated to avoid disruption to schools.
Providence schools back under local control
Infante‑Green also spoke about the recent decision to return Providence public schools to local control after a period of state oversight. She described the move as “a positive step toward empowering parents, teachers, and community leaders to make decisions that reflect the unique needs of their neighborhoods.” The commissioner highlighted several early indicators of progress, including increased parental involvement in school board meetings and a modest rise in attendance rates since the transition.
State officials noted that the shift aligns with the administration’s broader goal of strengthening local governance and giving families a greater voice in education. The Department of Education will continue to provide technical assistance and resources to the Providence school district as it navigates the new structure.
Governor‑elect Foulkes’ education agenda
Governor‑elect Helena Foulkes, a former school board member, has emphasized education reform as a cornerstone of her upcoming administration. In a recent press conference, she called for “fresh leadership that can accelerate improvements in student outcomes and uphold the values of our families.” While she has not named a successor, Foulkes indicated that the next commissioner will be selected based on experience with school‑choice initiatives and a commitment to parental‑rights.
Infante‑Green praised the governor‑elect’s focus on parental involvement, stating, “When parents are partners in education, students thrive.” She also reaffirmed the department’s dedication to supporting school‑choice options, including charter schools and voucher programs, which she says expand opportunities for families across the state.
Community response
Local parents and educators have expressed mixed reactions to the potential leadership change. Some welcome the prospect of new ideas, while others appreciate Infante‑Green’s steady hand during a period of transition. Providence School Committee Chairperson Maria Santos remarked, “We value continuity, but we also recognize the need for fresh perspectives that align with our community’s values.”
Overall, the conversation reflects a broader statewide dialogue about how best to balance state oversight with local autonomy, a theme that has resonated with many Rhode Island families seeking greater control over their children’s education.
Looking ahead
As the governor‑elect’s administration prepares to take office in January, the Department of Education will continue to monitor the impact of returning Providence schools to local control. Infante‑Green assured stakeholders that the department will track key metrics such as graduation rates, test scores, and enrollment in school‑choice programs to gauge progress.
“Our mission remains unchanged: to provide every child in Rhode Island with a high‑quality education rooted in faith, family, and freedom,” Infante‑Green concluded.
Original reporting: NBC 10 WJAR (Sinclair) – local — read the source article.
