Governor Raimondo announces her recommendation for Rhode Island’s new Education Commissioner

March 18, 2019 12:20 pm

By News Staff

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PROVIDENCE, R.I (WLNE) – Following the announcement of Commissioner Ken Wagner’s departure. Governor Gina Raimondo announced New York Deputy Commissioner, Angélica Infante-Green as her recommendation for the new Education Commissioner on Monday.

The Governor’s office stated that Infante-Green has a proven record of instructional leadership, and support for English learns and students with disabilities to the state.

Infante-Green would be the first Latina and Person of Color named to the role.

Infante-Green is a first generation American who has dedicated her career to expanding educational opportunities for children. The Governor’s office says she has a proven track record engaging the community on equity, and her statewide leadership policies to strengthen instruction and graduation rates.

“Rhode Island has an urgent need to improve schools and close achievement gaps for our students, and I believe Angélica can push our state forward,” said Governor Raimondo.

Infante-Green began her career as a Dual Language program teacher in the South Bronx. Later, as a Dual Language Program project director, she worked to create a curriculum in two languages that met the specialized needs of the Dominican community.

She would also serve as Chief Executive Officer of the Office of English Learners for the New York City Department of Education.

Infante-Green currently serves as the Deputy Commissioner of the New York State Education Department’s Office of Instructional Support P-12.

During her tenure, the state’s graduation rate increased and New York students showed growth in both math and English assessments, while narrowing achievement gaps for black and Latino students.

Infante-Green also worked with teachers, policy advocates, community leaders, and families to reform testing, leading to greater teacher involvement, stronger instructional support, and better information for parents.

Current Commissioner of Elementary and Secondary Education, Ken Wagner, said “I’ve known Angélica Infante-Green for years as a strong, smart, effective leader who is relentlessly, focused on equity. I am thrilled for this historic opportunity to have our first statewide education leader of color coming into the role of moving opportunities forward in Rhode Island and beyond.”

Her nomination is expected to be considered by the Rhode Island Council on Elementary and Secondary Education and the Board of Education on Tuesday, March 26. If confirmed, her first day at RIDE in tentatively planned for April 29th.