Providence, RI – This morning, Mayor Brett Smiley issued a letter to in response to Providence Public Schools District (PPSD) Superintendent Dr. Javier Montañez’s request for additional funds. City Council members are in full support of Mayor Smiley’s conditions for providing more funds, and released the following statements:
Council President Rachel Miller (Ward 13):
“This year, City Council advocated for and passed the largest budget increase for Providence Public Schools in decades. The council is deeply committed to supporting teachers, students, and parents while responsibly managing taxpayer dollars. Financial information shared by PPSD with the Council has created grave misgivings about PPSD’s fiscal management policies. I am in full support of allocating an additional $1M of unanticipated funds to PPSD on the condition of a thorough independent audit of district finances and a proportional increase in state funding. We’re committed to doing our part; it’s time for the district and the state to do theirs.”
President Pro Tempore Juan Pichardo (Ward 9):
“Our schools are the backbone of this city, and every dollar we invest in them should be treated with the highest level of care. City Council stepped up with historic levels of funding for the district because we believe in our students’ potential, but these funds must be used in a transparent, accountable, and fiscally responsible way. Today, that doesn’t seem to be the case. From the district, we need an independent audit; and from the state, we need a clear commitment to make a proportional contribution. Providence students, families, and educators deserve the support they need to thrive, and Council will continue to do its part.”
Majority Whip Miguel Sanchez (Ward 6):
“Let’s be clear: the district’s fiscal irresponsibility is causing a crisis for our students. Using children’s sports teams and bus passes as bargaining chips is outrageous and completely unacceptable. To access additional city funding; they must commit to cleaning up their financial mess. No more blank checks. The district needs to face an audit and prove it will be responsible with money that is supposed to benefit our kids. Our city, and the students that make it great, deserve better.”
