Public Education Resources
Why is Public Education Important?
Public education is the foundation of a just and thriving society. It provides every child, regardless of background or circumstance, with the knowledge and skills they need to succeed. A strong public education system promotes social mobility, fosters critical thinking, and prepares future generations to face the challenges of a rapidly changing world. By ensuring equal access to quality education, we empower individuals to reach their full potential, contribute to their communities, and build a more informed, engaged, and equitable society. Public education is not just a right—it’s an investment in our collective future.
Local Resources
The mission of the Newport Public School System, in partnership with students, families, and the community, is to provide challenging education with academic rigor and appropriate supports so that each student will possess the knowledge, skills, and character essential to productive citizenship, healthy choices, life-long learning, and the ability to make a meaningful contribution to our global society.
Newport Public Schools is a student-centered learning community with a diverse and well-trained staff that recognizes the individual abilities of each student. Our schools provide a challenging educational environment where each student can realize his/her potential and engage in critical thinking, problem solving and effective communication.
FabNewport envisions a future where all youth possess the necessary skills, confidence, and commitment to make a positive impact on their communities and realize their future aspirations. They bridge the gap between youth and their positive visions through mentorship and a year-round slate of activities and classes throughout Newport County.
Recent News
Team Sport: Rhode Island’s Statewide Strategy for Reducing Chronic Absenteeism, explores Governor Daniel McKee's innovative statewide approach to addressing student absenteeism, particularly following the pandemic’s disruption of school routines. Rhode Island saw absenteeism surge to over 30%, prompting McKee to lead a coalition involving schools, municipalities, businesses, and healthcare providers to increase student attendance. His strategy, which included publicizing real-time absenteeism data through a state-wide dashboard, has significantly reduced absenteeism rates, bringing them to pre-pandemic levels in most districts.
Beyond schools, the report emphasizes how McKee engaged local leaders, such as mayors and business executives, in the effort. Initiatives like the LEARN365 blueprint brought municipalities into the fold, focusing on not just improving attendance but fostering a community-wide responsibility for student engagement. The report showcases how political leadership, combined with collaboration across sectors, can positively impact educational outcomes and reduce absenteeism.