Mayor Brett Smiley Launches School Board Appointment Application Process

Mayor Brett P. Smiley announced today the Providence School Board Nominating Committee is now accepting applications for qualified candidates to serve on the Providence School Board. Applications are open online now through Friday, December 13, 2024, at 4:30 PM.

"As we consider the future of education in Providence, it is critically important that we have the best representation for our students and work together to improve educational outcomes across the city," said Mayor Brett Smiley. "The School Board is pivotal to the success and future of education in Providence, which is why I encourage all interested community members to apply. We need leaders that reflects our vibrant neighborhoods and can serve as strong advocates for our students, parents and teachers. Through strong and unified leadership, we can enhance educational opportunities for all."

Mayor Smiley will appoint five members to the School Board, with one appointee selected from each of the five electoral regions. Starting January 1, 2025, the first five appointees will serve staggered terms: one will serve a one-year term, ending in 2026; two will serve two-year terms, ending in 2027; and two will serve three-year terms, ending in 2028. After these initial appointments, all future terms will be three years. Additionally, interested candidates can also connect with current School Board members for further insights about the role.

"Serving on the Providence School Board was one of the greatest privileges of my professional career," said Nina Pande, former Providence School Board member. "For nearly 12 years, I had the opportunity to advocate for our students and ensure their voices were heard-a responsibility that remains one of the most rewarding services anyone can commit to. Now, more than ever, as our school district needs champions who prioritize quality education and place students at the heart of every decision. I encourage those who are passionate about our city's future to step forward, serve, and help make Providence Schools a beacon of excellence-a place where every child's potential is nurtured, and their success is our top priority."

Submitted applications will be reviewed by the School Board Nominating Committee. Applicants will be asked to participate in a public forum on December 18, 2024, from 5:00 PM to 8:30 PM at the Providence Career and Technical Academy (PCTA) located at 41 Fricker St., Providence, RI 02903. Community members can submit questions prior to the forum to help guide the moderated discussion and ensure it addresses community needs. After applicants have completed both steps, the Committee will recommend candidates to Mayor Smiley, who will then submit School Board nominees to the City Council for review.

"As the Mayor and his team conduct the search and solicit nominations for PPSD School Board members, I am committed to working in collaboration with governance partners and the City to continue to move our District forward. This is a great opportunity for individuals who have committed interests in prioritizing student outcomes and opportunities. I look forward to partnering with the School Board to set actionable goals and processes for continuous improvement. I strongly encourage residents of our great City to consider the positive impact they could have on Providence children and apply for these critical roles," said Providence Superintendent Dr. Javier Montañez.

This year, Providence voters had the opportunity to elect members to the School Board, a change made possible by the 2022 Charter Revision. Under this new hybrid model, voters were able to select one representative from their designated region. Beginning in January 2025, the School Board will consist of five appointed members and five elected members.

"The new hybrid School Board gives us an opportunity to bring in leaders who aren't afraid to push for real progress and significantly improved student outcomes," said Council President Rachel Miller. "This is a critical moment for our schools and it's time to turn our shared goals into action, making sure that every student, from every neighborhood, has access to a high-quality education that puts them on a path to success. If you're someone who understands what's at stake and has a vision for where our schools should be, applying for the School Board is your chance to help make it happen."

School Board members whose terms are expiring are encouraged to apply and be considered for reappointment. The School Board job description and application are now available online.