RI school commissioner Gist to return to work Nov. 26

Journal file photo

Deborah Gist

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (AP) -- Rhode Island Education Commissioner Deborah Gist plans to return to the office Nov. 26 following surgery to remove a brain tumor.

The state Board of Regents for Elementary and Secondary Education voted Thursday to reinstate Gist. Acting Commissioner David Abbott will return to his role as deputy commissioner when she returns.

Gist underwent surgery in Boston in September to remove a brain tumor that was believed to be benign.

Education Department spokesman Elliot Krieger says Gist will continue to work part-time from home before she returns to the office. He says her recovery has gone well and she is eager to return to full-time work.