Growing up in the vibrant heart of Providence, I was fortunate to be educated by the Providence Public Schools, a place where diverse voices converged in the classrooms, supported by dedicated educators and a community that passionately believed in the power of public education. Such experiences shaped my life profoundly, and I attribute much of my success to this invaluable foundation. It is this foundational opportunity that I am determined to preserve for our children today.

The proposal to lease the former Carl G. Lauro Elementary School to Excel Academy Rhode Island poses a grave threat to the integrity of our public school system. Transferring this public asset to a privately managed charter undermines the community’s trust and channels resources away from our public schools, which rely on these very assets to provide quality education to every child in Providence.

Charter schools like Excel Academy operate with limited accountability and often divert funds from local public schools, which could instead address resource shortages, support teacher salaries, or enrich student programs. As a community, we cannot allow this precedence of privatizing public education to take root, eroding our capacity for cohesive public schooling within our beloved city.

Providence’s public schools continue to face challenges that require our collective efforts and investments—strengthening support for teachers, ensuring equitable resources for students, and fostering inclusive environments where every student can thrive. Handing over Carl G. Lauro to a charter operator not only destabilizes these endeavors but undermines our community’s investment in sustainable, inclusive, and accountable public education.

Together, we can reclaim our schools for the children of Providence. Reject the lease to Excel Academy and reinforce our commitment to public education by investing in our neighborhood schools. Let's stand united to preserve the educational legacy of this city and ensure every child has the opportunity to benefit from a powerful, public education driving force.

I call upon the leaders in charge to listen to our voices, honor community assets, and halt the proposed leasing of Carl G. Lauro. Stand with us to protect and uplift Providence Public Schools for the generations to come.

Please sign this petition to ensure that our public schools remain a beacon of hope, equity, and opportunity for all students.