H7456

Rhode Island H7456 mandates public schools (K-12) to have one full-time certified social worker for every 250 students and allocates $2 million in.

Rhode Island H7456 requires all public schools in grades kindergarten through twelve (K-12) to have at least one full-time certified school social worker for every 250 students. The bill allocates $2 million in the Fiscal Year 2025 budget to allow school districts or municipalities to employ additional social workers. A social worker must hold a valid professional certificate in school social work issued by the state department of education. This act aims to ensure adequate support for students by mandating the presence of certified social workers in public schools.