The bill amends Section 16-7.1-5.2 of the General Laws to enhance state intervention in the Providence public school district, particularly for managing chronically underperforming schools. It allows the education commissioner, when authorized by the board of regents, to designate a receiver for the Providence public school district with full managerial and operational control, while the school district remains the employer of record. The receiver must be a nonprofit entity or an individual with a proven record of success in improving low-performing schools or districts.

The bill requires the commissioner and the receiver to jointly create a turnaround plan aimed at promoting rapid improvement in the district, focusing on schools designated as chronically underperforming. This plan must involve a local stakeholder group for recommendations and include measures to address social service needs, improve student achievement, and ensure a safe learning environment.

Additionally, the bill establishes a structured process for collective bargaining and dispute resolution, mandating that negotiations be conducted in good faith and completed within thirty days. If an agreement is not reached, unresolved issues will be referred to a joint resolution committee, whose binding decisions must be made within ten business days.

The turnaround plan is authorized for a maximum of three years, with the commissioner and receiver responsible for developing annual goals and providing quarterly reports to the school committee on the plan's implementation. The commissioner will evaluate the receiver's performance annually, and if the district does not meet its goals, the plan may be amended or the receiver terminated. The bill aims to ensure continuous improvement and accountability in the Providence public school district.

Statutes affected:
861: 16-7.1-5.2