Angélica Infante-Green | R.I. commissioner of education
1. What should parents expect from your leadership? Families can expect me to listen and put students first. For too long, students and families have felt excluded and even discouraged from being active partners in public education. If we want change to be sustainable, families need to be a part of the solution. We may not always agree but I will always listen.
2. Your career started with Teach for America. How has a nonconventional path to teaching shaped your view of teacher recruitment? We have a serious challenge when it comes to recruiting, training and retaining talented educators, particularly those certified in shortage areas, as well as teachers of color and multilingual teachers who more accurately reflect our student population. We need to open doors into the profession, not close them, and that includes TFA, alternate routes to certification and early recruiting through teaching pathways in high school.
3. Students who are English-language learners are lagging behind peers across Rhode Island. What can be done? A lot can be done, starting with setting the same high standards and expectations for all students. We need to look at language acquisition as an asset, not a deficit. Our multilingual learners come to the classroom with strengths and passion just like any other student, and we need to build upon those strengths. I also believe that we need to invest in dual-language programs and culturally responsive curriculum, so that all students reap the benefits of a global perspective and multilingual skills.
4. How can the rigor of instruction and expectations be increased across the state? We have high standards. We have a strong system of assessments. The question comes down to implementation and believing that all kids can achieve at the highest levels. Historically, curriculum has been a locally driven decision, but we are working with districts to help them make strong curriculum choices. Our menu approach will ensure that all students have access to high-quality curriculum, while still giving districts the ability to adapt.
5. What concerns you the most about K-12 education statewide? Complacency. We’ve talked a lot about Providence, but every single district can and must improve. We need the same level of attention, concern and passion when it comes to improving outcomes and supporting students and teachers statewide. We have to do better for all kids.
Mary MacDonald is a PBN staff writer. Contact her at Macdonald@PBN.com.