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1/18/2017
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Rep. O’Brien thanks Governor Raimondo for mentioning success of his dual education program in State of the State Address
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 STATE HOUSE – Rep. William W. O’Brien (D-Dist. 54, North Providence) is thanking Governor Raimondo for mentioning the success of the dual education program created by legislation (2013-H 6290) Representative O’Brien sponsored in the 2013 legislative session during her annual State of the State Address last night. The legislation, which went into effect this past fall, enables students to enroll at a college or university as non-degree students and have the courses be recognized toward degree completion at both the college and high school level.
“My dual education program has been proved a complete success for our state’s high school students and their families. It’s keeping more of their money in their pockets and providing top-notch and cost free higher learning for our kids. I thank Governor Raimondo for highlighting this program in her State of the State Address so that many other students and families know of the tremendous opportunity that the dual education program provides,” said Representative O’Brien.
The legislation directed the Board of Education to establish a statewide dual enrollment policy, to be adopted by school districts and schools by June 30, 2015. All school districts, charter schools, career and technical schools, approved private day or residential schools and collaborative schools will be subject to the requirements of the law.
The legislation also directed the Board of Education, in preparing the policy and regulations, to convene a workshop of representatives from the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education, the Office of Higher Education, school superintendents, school committees, public higher education institutions, guidance counselors and teachers to consider and advise the board on all aspects of a dual enrollment program, including the manner in which low-income students could access the program and possible contracted tuition costs at institutions of higher learning.
“This legislation gives our students the tools and opportunity to succeed in the future. It saves thousands of dollars for working class families struggling to afford the price of higher education and it positions Rhode Island for the better with a stronger future workforce. I am so pleased this program is working and I urge all students and families to take part in its success. This was the first bill that I sponsored that became law and I could not be any prouder of the legislation’s success,” added Representative O’Brien.
For more information, contact:
Andrew Caruolo, Publicist
State House Room 20
Providence, RI 02903
(401)222-6124
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