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Infante-Green Says She'll Stay Focused on Providence Schools as Foulkes Signals Change

Rhode Island Education Commissioner Angélica Infante-Green addressed her future after Gov.-elect Helena Foulkes said she would seek a new commissioner, while also discussing the status of Providence schools under local control.

Infante-Green Says She'll Stay Focused on Providence Schools as Foulkes Signals Change

PROVIDENCE, R.I. — Rhode Island Education Commissioner Angélica Infante-Green said Friday she remains focused on the work ahead, even as Gov.-elect Helena Foulkes has signaled she will seek a new commissioner.

In an interview, Infante-Green addressed questions about her potential future in Rhode Island and the status of Providence schools after they were returned to local control. She did not announce any immediate departure plans, but acknowledged the changing political landscape as Foulkes prepares to take office.

Foulkes, the governor-elect, has said she intends to seek a new education commissioner, a move that would end Infante-Green's tenure leading the state's education department. Infante-Green was appointed in 2019 and has overseen the state's intervention in Providence schools, a period marked by both ambitious reform efforts and persistent challenges.

The commissioner also discussed the transition of Providence schools back to local control, a process that has been closely watched by families, educators, and community advocates. The return to local governance follows years of state oversight, which was initiated amid concerns about school performance and management.

Infante-Green's remarks come as Rhode Island prepares for a leadership change in the governor's office. Foulkes, a former CVS Health executive, won the November election and has promised to bring new direction to state education policy.

For Providence families, the shift raises questions about the continuity of reforms and the future of a school system that has been at the center of statewide debate. Community groups have long called for greater local input and transparency in school governance, and the return to local control is seen as a critical test of that commitment.

Infante-Green did not specify her next steps, but her comments suggest she intends to remain engaged in the transition. The commissioner's office did not provide further details on the timing of any leadership change.

The story will be updated as more information becomes available.

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