On February 22, 2026, Rhode Island Governor Maria Fernandez signed into law a comprehensive education bill aimed at addressing longstanding issues related to school funding and equity. The legislation, known as the Education Equity Act, comes after years of advocacy from educators, parents, and community members who have called for changes to the state's education system.One of the key provisions of the Education Equity Act is a new funding formula that seeks to ensure that all schools in the state receive adequate and equitable resources. The formula takes into account factors such as student population, poverty rates, and English language learner status to determine how funds should be allocated. This approach is intended to address disparities in funding that have disproportionately affected low-income communities and students of color.In addition to the funding formula, the Education Equity Act includes measures to improve access to high-quality teachers and resources for all students. The legislation establishes a new grant program to support professional development for educators in underserved schools, as well as funding for technology upgrades and other resources to enhance student learning.Another important aspect of the new law is its emphasis on promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion in schools. The Education Equity Act requires all school districts to develop and implement diversity and inclusion plans that address issues such as bias and discrimination. It also mandates the collection of data on student demographics, discipline rates, and academic outcomes to identify disparities and ensure that all students have equitable opportunities to succeed.Governor Fernandez hailed the passage of the Education Equity Act as a major step forward for Rhode Island's education system. In a statement, she said, "This legislation represents a commitment to ensuring that every child in Rhode Island has access to a high-quality education, regardless of their background or zip code. By addressing inequities in school funding and resources, we can create a more inclusive and equitable education system that benefits all students."The Education Equity Act is set to go into effect at the start of the next school year, with state officials working to implement its provisions and support schools in making the necessary changes. Supporters of the legislation have expressed optimism that it will lead to positive outcomes for students across the state and help to close achievement gaps that have long plagued Rhode Island's education system.