Foster council asks for independent probe into regional school district’s handling of sexual‑assault complaints

FOSTER — The Foster Town Council voted March 26 to request an independent third‑party investigation into the Foster‑Glocester Regional School Committee and school department’s handling of sexual‑assault complaints, citing concerns about adequacy, timeliness and compliance with state law and Title IX.

The resolution, adopted by the council, asks the district to commission an investigator with expertise in Title IX compliance, child‑protection law and educational oversight and to make findings, conclusions and remedial recommendations public. It specifically cites Rhode Island mandatory‑reporting requirements under R.I. Gen. Laws 40‑11‑3.3 and Title IX responsibilities for prompt and effective responses to sexual harassment and assault.

The resolution directs the town clerk to transmit copies to the governor, legislative leaders and the town’s state legislative delegation and asks the district to provide periodic updates to the council on implementation of any recommended corrective actions. The council’s motion did not specify a timeline for release beyond asking that the final report be made available to the council and relevant oversight authorities.

Council members framed the resolution as a request to ensure the district meets legal obligations and to provide transparency for families and the public; the motion carried by voice vote.