Rhode Island

COVID-19 Special Education Resources Web Page

Summary: Rhode Island created a comprehensive web page with resources for teachers, families and paraprofessionals. The website includes extensive instructions for teachers providing virtual instruction for students, as well as guidelines for assisting students with disabilities who return to in-person learning. It also lists additional assistive technology accommodations for students with disabilities participating in distance learning, and provides resources for families participating in their special education student’s distance learning experience. It also lists extensive communication methods for parents of children with disabilities. 

Operated by: Rhode Island Department of Education

Topic: Assistive Technology, Distance Learning, Family Engagement 

Re-Opening Planning Guidance for School Counseling Programs

Summary: This document provides guidelines for school counselors providing school mental health resources during the COVID-19 pandemic. It provides counselors a three-stage required reopening process, and it lists best practices and requirements for both in-person and telecounseling mental health services. It also requires Rhode Island school counselors to provide transition-age students with online career counseling and application services.

Operated by: Rhode Island Department of Education

Topic: Mental Health, Transition

RIDE COVID Resources

Summary: This document lists a variety of resources for parents helping with their child’s distance learning experience. It provides resources guiding parents attempting to talk to their child about COVID-19, and it includes both videos and interactive websites to help parents engage their child in educational resources.

Operated by: Rhode Island Department of Education

Topic: Distance Learning, Family Engagement

Tips for Coping With Stress

Summary: This document lists various tips for parents to help them mitigate the negative mental health effects brought about by COVID-19. It also lists extensive resources for mental health crises, community resources and mental health resources specifically for children.

Operated by: Rhode Island Department of Health

Topic: Mental Health

Back to School RI: Reopening Frequently Asked Questions SY20-21

Summary: In the wellness section of this document, the Rhode Island Department of Education provides guidance for students with disabilities as Rhode Island schools reopen. It notes how IEPs can be updated differently due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and RIDE provides a contact for any IEP-related questions. Additionally, this document discusses the circumstances under which students with disabilities should return to in-person instruction or continue to receive virtual instruction. 

Operated by: Rhode Island Department of Education

Topic: IEP, Distance Learning

Mental Health Resources in Response to COVID-19

Summary: This web page provides resources and best practices for educators, mental health professionals, school administrators, and families seeking to support youth mental health during the COVID-19 pandemic. Its resources are divided into the following subsections: resources for educations and school mental health professionals, webinars, resources for parents, resources for school administrators, and resources to support transition back to school.

Operated by: Rhode Island Department of Education

Topic: Mental Health

Support Services

Summary: This web page provides mental health services, supports, and hotlines for Rhode Island residents. These services include family friendly services, as well as services specifically provided for children and youth. 

Operated by: Rhode Island Department of Behavioral Healthcare, Developmental Disabilities, and Hospitals

Topic: Mental Health