Rhode island special education (rise) initiative

The Department of Education Office of Special Education and Rehabilitative Services awarded $557,582 to the Rhode Island Department of Elementary and Secondary Education on October 1, 2026, under the Special Education—State Personnel Development program (CFDA 84.323) to support the Rhode Island Special Education (RISE) Initiative. The award funds activities designed to reform and improve systems for personnel preparation and professional development in early intervention, educational and transition services for personnel serving children with disabilities, including special education teachers, regular education teachers, principals, administrators, related services personnel, paraprofessionals, and early intervention personnel. Performance is based in Providence, Rhode Island, with the period of performance running through September 30, 2027. The ultimate recipient is the State of Rhode Island, with the Rhode Island Department of Elementary and Secondary Education serving as the direct awardee and administrator of the grant. The program operates on a competitive, peer-reviewed basis subject to continuation review, with potential for annual continuation awards over multi-year project periods of up to five years depending on appropriations availability and documented substantial progress toward approved objectives.