§ 16-63-2. Legislative findings and policy.
(a) The general assembly, in accordance with the constitution of the state, R.I. Const., Art. XII, § 1, which obligates the state "to secure to the people the advantages and opportunities
of education,â€� and also pursuant to R.I. Const., Art. XII, § 4, which requires it to "make all necessary provisions by law for carrying this article
into effect,� finds:
(1) That all citizens, regardless of age, have the right to education;
(2) That education is a lifelong pursuit;
(3) That basic education and general personal development are necessary to enjoy a wholesome
life; and
(4) That vocational training is useful in acquiring a marketable skill and achieving economic
self-sufficiency.
(b) The general assembly declares:
(1) That the public laws shall address the education needs of adults and young people;
(2) That an integrated and coordinated adult education delivery system shall be provided
and maintained on a statewide basis; and
(3) That public funds shall be appropriated to support that delivery system and fulfill
the constitutional mandate.
(c) All adult education programs and services provided by any department or agency of
the state of Rhode Island or local government, or funded in whole or in part by state
funds, shall be offered in the least restrictive environment, be designed to enhance
the quality of life for adult learners, and be consistent with and inclusive of the
following values that reflect the preferences and needs of adult learners;
(1) Adult learners shall be treated with dignity and respect;
(2) Adult learners shall be included in policy development affecting adult education;
(3) Adult learners shall be offered services that are cost-effective and meet the learners'
needs;
(4) Adult learners shall have access to testing, evaluation and requisite accommodation
for learning and/or other disabilities;
(5) Adult learners shall be fully informed about the educational choices available to
them;
(6) Adult learners shall participate in decisions about their educational process, including
information exchange and goal setting;
(7) Adult learners shall be provided with educational programming commensurate with their
abilities, including but not limited to basic skills, vocational education, and/or
secondary education or its recognized equivalent;
(8) Adult learners shall receive consistent, sustained quality in their education.