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6/20/2025
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Assembly passes Acosta, Giraldo bill creating a study commission to examine returning Central Falls schools to district control
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STATE HOUSE – The General Assembly today passed legislation introduced by Sen. Jonathon Acosta and Rep. Joshua J. Giraldo that would create a study commission to study and prepare a report on the return of Central Falls schools to local governance.
“We are reaching a point in time where it is appropriate that the city retakes control of the school district. Such a change in control will not be successful without a concrete plan, though, which is what this commission will study and create,” said Senator Acosta (D-Dist. 16, Central Falls, Pawtucket).
“Central Falls has dramatically changed for the better over the past decade. This study commission acknowledges this progress, while also acknowledging the boost in morale that would come with regaining control over our school district. But we have to make this change the correct way and this commission will ensure a smooth and successful transition,” said Representative Giraldo (D-Dist. 56, Central Falls).
The joint resolution (2025-S 1156, 2025-H 6255A) would create a seven-member joint legislative commission to study and prepare a report on the return of Central Falls schools to local governance. The final report would include a sustainable financial pathway and timeline for the city of Central Falls to contribute their local share of foundation education aid, and a comprehensive plan for the transfer of operational and fiscal responsibility from the state to the city, with an effective implementation date of July 1, 2026.
The membership of the committee will include designees from the Senate President, the
Speaker of the House, the governor, the commissioner of Elementary and Secondary Education, the mayor of Central Falls, the Rhode Island Federation of Teachers and Health Professionals, and a financial leader to be appointed upon an agreement reached between the Speaker of the House, the President of the Senate, and the governor.
For more information, contact:
Andrew Caruolo, Publicist
State House Room 20
Providence, RI 02903
(401)222-6124
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