RI H7581

Creates a new categorical funding program for civics education within Rhode Island's Education Equity and Property Tax Relief Act, with funding allocated based on district needs including student population size, socioeconomic status, and multilingual learner populations

Appropriates $1,000,000 annually beginning July 1, 2027, with $600,000 designated for teacher professional development, student-led civics projects, and related civic education uses

Requires a minimum 50% funding increase beginning July 1, 2028, to be used for teacher training in culturally responsive teaching, media literacy, project-based learning, curriculum development, and community partnerships

Directs the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education to oversee the fund, allocate funding through a request for proposal (RFP) process, and assess effectiveness with input from teachers and parents

Allows unused funds to be carried forward to subsequent fiscal years and includes a severability clause to preserve the legislation if any provision is found invalid