Rhode Island: education overview
Average teacher salary $85,772 (2024-25), #8 of 51. Source
Public vs private schools
| Public | Private | |
|---|---|---|
| Schools | 316 | 110 |
| Students | 135,978 | 19,520 |
| Share of students | 87% | 13% |
Latest federal counts; public and private figures come from different school years, so the share is approximate.
Schools 2022-23Students 2024-25Teachers 2022-23Districts 2021-22
Students, teachers, districts
- Public school districts
- 36
- Public school teachers (full-time equivalent)
- 10,786
- Public school students
- 135,978
Schools 2022-23Students 2024-25Teachers 2022-23Districts 2021-22
How teacher pay is structured
Regular districts generally serve K–12, so elementary and high school teachers normally use the same district teacher pay framework rather than separate grade-level district schedules. Salary schedules are set locally and generally collectively bargained; there is no statewide teacher salary schedule or teacher-specific minimum.
Separate high school districts: noStatewide salary schedule: noSource
For prospective educators
You'd be a good fit if you want a small state with bargained district pay, short commutes, and New England coastal living.
A general summary, not advice. Pay and conditions vary by district.