New Poll Shows Strong Rhode Island Voter Support for Charter Public Schools and More Family Options
A newly released statewide poll shows Rhode Island voters are looking for stronger schools, more options for families, and better outcomes for students.
The survey, conducted by Expedition Strategies on behalf of the Rhode Island League of Charter Schools Advocacy Fund, included 800 likely Rhode Island voters and was conducted March 24–29. The findings point to broad support for expanding opportunity within public education and growing concern about the current direction of K–12 education in the state.
However, even with strong support from families, these opportunities are at risk. A charter school moratorium is being proposed at the general assembly, which is not just a pause, it’s a cap that would prevent any new charter public schools from opening, ultimately limiting opportunities for thousands of families. If the moratorium bill passes the general assembly, it signals the end of the path for innovative public schools that are working for kids.
For Rhode Island Education Collective Founder and CEO Victor Capellan, the results reflect what many families have been expressing for years.
“Families across Rhode Island are asking for schools that prepare their children for success and reflect their needs, cultures, and aspirations,” said Capellan. “This poll confirms what we hear every day—parents want opportunity, quality, and real choices within public education.”
The poll suggests that Rhode Islanders value a public education system that offers families meaningful options while also raising standards and outcomes for all students. It also highlights the importance voters place on ensuring every child has access to a high-quality learning environment.
Key Findings
88% of voters agree that families should be able to choose the type of school that fits their child’s needs
60% of voters have a favorable opinion of charter public schools
78% of voters support giving more children access to charter public schools
64% of likely Democratic primary voters support expanding charter public schools
71% of voters believe K–12 education in Rhode Island is on the wrong track
63% of K-12 parents oppose a moratorium on new charter public schools
Taken together, the results reflect growing demand for high-quality public education options and stronger outcomes for students across Rhode Island. Voters are signaling that they want innovation, accountability, and more pathways to success for children and families.
Rhode Island Education Collective believes every child deserves access to a school where they can thrive, and every family deserves meaningful educational opportunity. As Rhode Island looks toward the future, these findings underscore the need to keep students and families at the center of education policy and decision-making.
This is about students, not bureaucracy. Make your voice heard and stand with Rhode Island families. Contact members of the Rhode Island General Assembly who are considering the following bills: H7415 and S2787 and tell them that you oppose the moratorium on charter public schools.
