Providence Reporter

The United States Department of Justice has finalized a settlement with the Providence Public School District following an investigation into its services for immigrant English learner students, known as "newcomers." The announcement was made by Zachary A. Cunha, the U.S. Attorney for the District of Rhode Island.

Providence Public School District, the largest in Rhode Island, serves numerous English learners, including hundreds of newcomers. Earlier this year, complaints were filed regarding civil rights violations at Providence's "Newcomer Academy," which is designed to provide accelerated learning for newcomers aged seventeen and older.

The investigation by the Justice Department's Civil Rights Division and the U.S. Attorney’s Office revealed that over 200 students at the Newcomer Academy did not receive adequate English language instruction. It also found issues with staffing, segregation of newcomers, and limited access to specialized programs such as special education and career training.

"The Providence Public School District’s failure to meet its civil rights obligations to newcomer students is unacceptable," stated U.S. Attorney Zachary A. Cunha. He emphasized that this action follows a previous 2018 civil rights agreement addressing similar failures.

Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke highlighted that new immigrant students often face challenges in accessing educational opportunities despite their potential contributions to school communities. She reiterated federal law mandates all students have the right to participate meaningfully in educational programs.

The district has cooperated with the Department during the investigation and has begun addressing some concerns identified by federal authorities. Under the new agreement, Providence will ensure adequate English instruction for all newcomer program students and properly train teachers involved in these programs. Additionally, it will provide translation services for parents who are not fluent in English and ensure equal access to specialized programs.

This settlement supersedes a previous agreement from 2018 extended in 2021 concerning all English learner services within the district. The matter was managed by Assistant U.S. Attorney Amy R. Romero along with Trial Attorneys Ajay Saini and Laura Tayloe from the Education Opportunities Section of the Civil Rights Division.

Enforcement of the Equal Educational Opportunities Act remains a priority for the Civil Rights Division. More information can be found on their website or through direct contact options provided for reporting civil rights violations.