Laws and regulations affect the health and safety of students and school personnel, learning environments, and other aspects of the school community. There are numerous state and federal laws that determine policies, practices, protocols, funding, and other systemic approaches to Rhode Island’s public and non-public schools. Regulations have the power of law through the statutory authority granted under specific statutes. Regulations clarify the intent of a law and define implementation practices.
School health education, health services, and school environment are guided by the Rules and Regulations for School Health Programs and FAQs about the regulations.These regulations apply to all public and non-public schools. These regulations are jointly promulgated by the Departments of Education and Health, and are periodically updated to align with new statutes, best practices, and emerging issues.
In order to help implement state legislation and school health rules and regulations, the following model policies and/or policy guidance documents have been developed, by the Rhode Island Department of Education in partnership with the Department of Health or other partners.
RI Department of Education
401-222-8951