Rhode Island.

The article focuses on education funding in Rhode Island, emphasizing the state's principle that funding follows the student to promote equity and excellence across P–12 and higher education. For fiscal year 2024, the Rhode Island Legislature allocated approximately $1.96 billion for K–12 schools and nearly $1.5 billion for higher education, guided by strategic priorities including equity, engaged communities, and world-class talent development. The Rhode Island Department of Education (RIDE) addresses challenges such as declining enrollment, COVID-19 recovery, and support for special populations through targeted investments like increased funding for multilingual learners and expanded professional development. Additionally, Rhode Island's education system includes public districts, charter schools, private schools, and homeschooling, with funding formulas excluding direct state aid to private education but allowing corporate tax credits for scholarships.