R.I. Gen. Laws § 28-9.3-3

The association or labor organization selected by the certified public school teachers in the public school system in any city, town, or regional school district shall be recognized by the school committee of the city, town, or district as the sole and exclusive negotiating or bargaining agent for all of the public school teachers of the city, town, or regional school district unless and until recognition of the association or labor organization is withdrawn or changed by vote of the certified public school teachers after a duly conducted election, held pursuant to the provisions of this chapter. An association or labor organization or the school committee may designate any person or persons to negotiate or bargain in its behalf.