The U.S. Department of Education has released the Puerto Rico Educational Transformation Guidebook, offering recommendations for local leaders to continue decentralizing education efforts on the island. The guidebook is addressed to Governor-elect González Colón and outlines key actions essential for the successful continuation of this decentralization work. These actions aim to support Puerto Rico's goal of launching its first autonomous Local Educational Agency (LEA) by July 2025.
"This historic transformation of the Puerto Rico Department of Education (PRDE) will catalyze change and create a system that empowers school communities, makes better use of precious federal and island resources, increases accountability and trust, and most importantly, improves student opportunities and outcomes. The Federal commitment of unprecedented support will continue alongside the very capable leaders in Puerto Rico as this transformation continues," wrote Secretary Cardona in the guidebook.
Puerto Rico is recognized as the seventh-largest school district in the United States and has been undergoing a transformation supported by the Department. In light of natural disasters and challenges from the COVID-19 pandemic, Puerto Rico's current unitary education system has faced difficulties in delivering high-quality education.
Following a commitment made in May 2023 by Puerto Rican authorities to decentralize their education system, significant progress has been noted. The newly released guidebook builds on this progress since that announcement, highlights recent implementation achievements, and encourages continued efforts from leaders in Puerto Rico.
