Providence Reporter

Governor Dan McKee, alongside Rhode Island Department of Education (RIDE) Commissioner Angélica Infante-Green and Providence Public School District (PPSD) Superintendent Dr. Javier Montañez, announced the allocation of $5 million in grants under the Art Reengages Talent in Students (ARTS) Initiative Act II. The announcement took place at Hope High School for the Arts, with state and city leaders present.

The event also showcased Hope's newly renovated auditorium, part of PPSD’s extensive $1 billion school construction plan aimed at ensuring all students learn in modern facilities by 2030. A $400 million local bond referendum will be on the ballot for Providence voters to support further facility improvements.

Governor McKee emphasized the importance of art programs: “High-quality art programs are critical for deeply engaging students in learning and helping them develop their creative talents and skills to succeed beyond the classroom.” He highlighted education as a priority for his administration, expressing optimism about the impact of ARTS grants on student experiences statewide.

Commissioner Infante-Green added, “With our innovative grant program, RIDE is investing in the arts statewide because they are essential to the overall school experience and success of our students.”

The first phase of ARTS Initiative launched in spring 2022 provided $4.5 million to local education agencies (LEAs). The second phase allocates $5 million from the School Building Authority Capital Fund based on student numbers. Major recipients include Providence with $928,985, Pawtucket receiving $381,404, Cranston allocated $358,956, Warwick with $280,543, and Woonsocket getting $269,550.

Chair Patti DiCenso remarked on educational opportunities: “Every student in Rhode Island deserves access to educational opportunities that meet their interests.”

Todd Trebour from RISCA expressed gratitude: "The R.I. State Council on the Arts is thrilled and grateful...for acknowledging the value of arts education."

PPSD utilized over $690,000 from ARTS Act I funding for initiatives such as sending Mount Pleasant High School’s marching band to perform in Washington D.C., acquiring new equipment like ceramic kilns and musical instruments, and creating a Film Production Career Technical Education program at Hope.

Dr. Javier Montañez commented on PPSD's progress: “With funding from both rounds of RIDE’s ARTS Initiative...we are showing our students that we are committed to their education and their futures.”

In Cranston, nearly $330,000 from Act I was used for purchasing new musical instruments and establishing an audio production CTE program aligned with college readiness goals. Chariho Regional School District invested funds into various arts programs while Rhode Island School for the Deaf brought deaf artists for engagement activities.