The bill amends Section 16-3.1-11 of the General Laws regarding "Cooperative Service Among School Districts" to establish a governance structure for the urban collaborative in Providence. It introduces a board of trustees consisting of five members, which includes the superintendent of the Providence school district or their designee, a superintendent or designee from other Rhode Island school districts approved for inclusion, and additional members appointed by the council on elementary and secondary education with input from the commissioner of elementary and secondary education. The bill clarifies that the board of trustees will govern the urban collaborative, while certain powers and duties remain with the commissioner of elementary and secondary education.

Additionally, the bill removes previous language that authorized school committees from specific cities to initiate cooperative efforts for alternate education programs and diagnostic services. It outlines that the state share of education aid will be paid directly to the urban collaborative, and local districts will transfer necessary funds until the transition is complete. The urban collaborative will also be eligible for various forms of revenue, similar to a school district, ensuring that federal aid benefits its students. The act will take effect upon passage.

Statutes affected:
5593: 16-3.1-11