Rhode Island
State Laws
House Resolution
Endorsing the Implementation of Character Development Education in Rhode Island Public Schools
“The Rhode Island General Assembly recognizes that, in the face of the deteriorating social fabric, parents, schools and other community institutions, working together as partners, must increasingly contribute to the development of good character in the young through both teaching and modeling.” (Source)
Non-Codified Policy
“Social and Emotional Learning and development of SEL standards was included as part of the 2015-20 RIDE Strategic Plan in the area of Globally Competent Graduates. One Key Outcome of that Strategic Plan is that “Rhode Island graduates possess the social and emotional skills necessary to persevere through challenging circumstances, to work in partnership with others, and to develop a growth mindset”.” (Source)
Reported Animal Abuse Cases
WPRI.com reported that an 18-year-old was part of a duo facing cruelty-to-animals charges in connection with an incident that left one dog dead and two others severely injured. While trying to break up a fight between dogs, the teen stabbed two of them, and then the two individuals waited more than seven hours before bringing the most severely injured dog to a veterinarian. That dog later died from the injuries. In addition, the pair never sought veterinary care for the other two injured dogs.
ABC6.com reported that a teen was charged with the felony killing of an animal after killing his stepdad’s small white terrier as retaliation against a family member and recording the act on his cell phone.