JOHNSTON, R.I. (WPRI) — Johnston Public Schools is getting a one-time bail out from the town to fix their finances, according to Mayor Joseph Polisena Jr.

Polisena Jr. said this move is due to a $5.4 million shortfall the district is facing for Fiscal Year 2026. The bailout, which comes from the town's rainy day fund, is equal to 8% of the district's budget.

"I am enraged on behalf of the taxpayers of the town of Johnston," Polisena Jr. told 12 News Friday.

The news also comes weeks after Superintendent Bernard DiLullo announced he's stepping down by the end of this school year.

"With a new incoming superintendent, newly appointment school committee members and the new chairman, I'm confident they will fix the ongoing problem that has been plaguing the district for years," Polisena Jr.

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