RI-CAN (Rhode Island Campaign for Achievement Now)
RI-CAN (the Rhode Island Campaign for Achievement Now, pronounced rye-can) is an education reform advocacy organization. We are building a movement of Rhode Islanders advocating to fundamentally reform our public schools through smart public policies. We will not rest until every Rhode Island child has access to a great public school.
With a new governor who is skeptical of education reform, RI-CAN is advocating to keep Commissioner Gist and the state Board of Regents in office. In 2011, we will push legislation for charter school facilities equity to be included in the FY 2012 budget and pursue a focus on a teacher literacy test in new certification regulations. We will also focus on ensuring the reforms outlined in the Race to the Top application and the RI Department of Education’s strategic plan are implemented.
Recent Achievements
RI-CAN (Rhode Island Campaign for Achievement Now) launched officially as an organization in December 2010 and immediately released its first report, “The State of Education in Rhode Island.” Its key finding is that the state has unacceptably large racial, ethnic, and class divisions in student achievement.
RI-CAN held a sold-out October screening of Waiting for “Superman,” featuring a panel that included Education Commissioner Deborah Gist.
Lead Executive
Maryellen Butke, PhD Executive Director Media Contact: Fiona Hoey 917-318-5799
