RI Foundation announce $480,000 initiative to close “achievement gap” for English Learner students

ESL and BDL Certification Cohort Kickoff Event @ RISD Museum Grand Gallery
LPR NEWS 1290 AM PROVIDENCE
John Smith RISD

Welcome to the RISD Museum Grand Gallery
Introduce the Neil Steinberg, president and CEO of the Rhode Island Foundation

Neil Steinberg RIF

Thank John Smith and the RISD Museum for hosting the event
Acknowledge Speakers

Gov. Gina Raimondo

Describe the state’s commitment to closing the “achievement gap”

Ken Wagner, RIDE Commissioner

Describe the growing need for ESL and dual language certified teachers in RI

Rhode Island College President Frank Sánchez

Describe RIC’s program

David Byrd, director of URI’s of School of Education

Describe URI’s program

Chris Maher, Providence school superintendent

Describe the collaboration between districts for this initiative

Victor Capellan, Central Falls school superintendent

Describe his experience as a former EL now in an educational leadership position

Jenny Chan‐Remka, assistant Woonsocket school superintendent

Describe her experience as a former EL now in an educational leadership position

Mariani Lefas‐Tetenes, RISD assistant director of school and teacher programs

Describe the importance of including arts education in teacher certification programs

Neil Steinberg, Closing remarks