News Briefs

Ward 4 Councilman Faria Saga Continues
The East Providence City Council meeting of June 20th produced gasps and outrage from many in the city when a scathing police report was issued on the behavior of Ward 4 councilman Brian Faria. Damaging disclosures at the special City Council meeting were described by Police Chief Christopher Parella and Acting City HR Director, Police Captain Michael David.

The council, minus Brian Faria who did not attend, was given a litany of egregious activities by Faria. "On Saturday, April 27th at 7:30 pm Faria convinced a city hall custodian to let him into City Hall after hours. He convinced another custodian to let him into the locked office of the Law Department," said Chief Parella The police and HR investigation went on to describe how Faria copied and/or removed up to 300 documents from the city legal office. While in the law office anyone would have access to financial, banking, social security numbers, etc., of city residents. "Faria copied so many documents that he told nervous custodians he needed more paper because the copier ran out. Faria then left City Hall some ten hours later at 5:30 Saturday morning with a large file full of papers that he did not have upon entering the building the night before. The Attorney General called your actions "alarming," the report continued.

At least two residents feared that their personal information has been compromised. One resident said that his credit report took a 75 point hit and had undisclosed inquiries. This person has contacted a lawyer and may file fraud charges against Faria and/or the city.

More than 20 city employees told police and investigators that Faria harassed and frightened them. Two union leaders representing city workers told Police Captain Michael David, that Faria was "creating a hostile work environment at City Hall." The police chief also said that employees reported that Faria interfered with their jobs and was demeaning and vulgar to workers, often times swearing at female employees."

Employees in the City Clerk's office reported that Faria made the City Clerk's job difficult and would monopolize her time. "After the City Clerk went home on one occasion Faria sat at her private desk in her private office. Our investigation found that he entered three worker's offices without permission. Workers asked him to leave and he refused." Captain David said that his investigation sustained accusations that Faria frequently yelled, swore and banged on the desk of city clerk Kin Casci-Palangio. "An understanding existed with staff in the clerk's office that Casci-Palangio would not be left alone with Faria in the office," said David.

The investigation also disclosed what many had posted on social media. Complaints were received by information technology workers who were made to post pro-Faria stories on the city's facebook page. "Faria told these workers what and when to post items, much of it late evenings on Saturdays and Sundays," said Captain David. Earlier this year Ward One councilman Bob Britto confronted Faria at a council meeting about having the city facebook password. "This is a nightmare for workers here. They had to deal with this day in and day out. These are women we’re talking about here. I see a pattern of going to department heads with women and intimidating them. It must be frustrating for employees to have to put up with that behavior. I find it appalling," Britto said. At least one IT employee was known to have quit a job because of Faria's interference.

Captain David also confirmed that Faria gave police officers a hard time when pulling him over for violations. "Don't you know who I am, I sit on your pension board!" Faria would tell the police. He would often flash his city council issued ID badge.

On April 8, 2018, the police report being called to a local bar for a late closing. Bars are to close at 1:00 am but about 20 patrons were still there at 1:30. They left when asked by police but one of them, Brian Faria, "was agitated and told police officers, "Who do you think you're talking to?" said Captain David.

There were several other disturbing disclosures made by the police investigative command staff. As of this writing at the end of last month, city council action included a unanimous vote to file a counter-suit against Faria. Faria, acting as his own lawyer, is suing the city to quash a subpoena which seeks the return of city hall records and other legal requests. Special attorney William Dolan cites a charter provision preventing city council members from directly getting involved with city employees. They must first go through a City Manager. Dolan advised that Faria may yet face misdemeanor charges. The council is next set to meet on July 24th and they seemed anxious to see that Brian Faria not be allowed to attend.

Faria called his own news conference on Friday June 22nd which he held at City Hall. Faria told the one press member who appeared that he was denying all charges of employee harassment and defended his actions in spending an overnight in the City Hall Law Department. "This is a witch hunt. When I was in City Hall (10 hours overnight) I was working on legislative duties and my research," Faria said.

2018 District Wide EP Teacher of the Year - Keith Martinous

Career Tech Center, Keith Martinous:
Mr. Martinous has worked tirelessly to create a high demand, laboratory based, forensic science experience for students in grades nine through twelve. His program is highly respected throughout the state. He has been named as the city wide Teacher of the Year for East Providence.

Over the past few years Mr. Martinous has created opportunities for students to showcase their skills in state and national competitions. He has coached students in Skills USA and the United States Air Force, Cyber-Patriot student competition teams over the past five years. His level of expertise and patience with students has allowed him to successfully train students in the areas of crime scene investigation and cyber security. His experience and knowledge in both areas has produced state and regional winners.

In his capacity as forensic instructor, students learn all aspects of crime scene investigation. Students actively learn how to perform electrophoresis, fingerprint analysis and much more. His students are challenged academically every day and they truly enjoy their time in the program.

Mr. Martinous seeks out the very best for his students. He attends numerous conferences and workshops to increase his skills and to improve instruction. As an adjunct for Syracuse University, Mr Martinous offers a dual enrollment course to his senior class. Upon successful completion of the course, the students are eligible to receive four chemistry credits from Syracuse University which are transferable.

Mr. Martinous has a wonderful rapport with his students. His ability to motivate them, utilizing his depth of knowledge and skill-set, has created a dynamic culture for student success. His hands-on approach offers students ample time to learn complex skills. Instead of managing the class as a whole, Mr. Martinous encourages students' work together to experiment, troubleshoot and solve problems. Recently, Rhode Island PBS showcased his program in their "Classroom,, series.

EP School Individual Teachers of the Year:

EPHS, Heather Coughlin:
Mrs. Coughlin's organizational skills, content and technological knowledge, demeanor, and helpfulness help make Heather Coughlin a perfect choice for East Providence High School's teacher of the year. She has been active in creating a 21st century classroom. She consistently shares lessons and activities with her colleagues on Google Classroom.

Mrs. Coughlin attends many out of school teacher events that enable a teacher to grow as a professional. She is a dedicated learner, a member of the FUSE cohort 4 group and consistently attends all training and PD provided by Highlander. Mrs. Coughlin coaches other teachers in the state in technology use in the classroom as a FUSE fellow. She is very active as a PLC member for many on Twitter. She works well with URI and has embraced their new curriculum as well in her writing class.

Mrs. Coughlin's lessons are dynamic, engaging, and designed to provide her students with choice in how they pave their learning path and show what they know. She uses technology seamlessly to differentiate and provide students with multiple resources and avenues for making progress and demonstrating mastery. Mrs. Coughlin's students state: "English is boring but not in Mrs. Coughlin's room. It is never dull!"

Students respect her and want to do well because it means something to her and the kids work their best to deliver. She is the beacon of light in the English wing and is constantly working with others both in her department and outside of her department to find new and innovative ways to challenge and support the students.

Martin Middle, Christie Hammons
Christie Hammons is Martin Middle School Teacher of the Year. Christie is a risk-taker who always takes on new challenges. She is always providing support and guidance to students, teachers and administrators. She is a hard worker who is completely committed to helping her students' success.

Riverside Middle, Alissa Chamberland
A Literacy teacher and MTSS Chairperson, Alissa has gained the respect of her colleagues and she has developed lasting relationships with her students. She has helped students to improve their English language skills and she has used contemporary educational tools to close gaps in student learning. Her skills in this area have facilitated her work in MTSS this year as the school coordinator, a position in which she has collaborated with school level and district level colleagues to provide personalized learning opportunities for students. Alissa somehow manages to find the time serve as the RMS Yearbook Advisor as well as co-coordinating a trip to Washington D.C with fifty RMS eighth graders. The opportunity to experience their nation's capital is an experience that serves as the highlight of many an RMS student. Her efforts for her students and her professionalism are impressive, but her warm personality and demeanor make her stand out among her peers.

Francis, Suzanne Jordan
Suzanne has been selected to travel to Tanzania with a group of educators from the states to help build an elementary school and advise with respect to the new school's library. Suzanne Jordan was selected by her colleagues as the MJF Teacher of the Year because she is an amazing teacher. A collaborative educator who promotes a love of reading, teaching, and learning for everyone at Myron Francis School.

Hennessey, Nicole Monte
Nicole started her teaching career in East Providence Public Schools in 2000. She brings a wealth of experience as classroom teacher and math interventionist. Monte contributes professional expertise and develops positive relationships which takes on positions of leadership within the school to support the overall school community, including Instructional Leadership Team member, MTSS Data Manager and PLC Facilitator. She brings a drive and commitment to pushing limits to every task. Nicole Monte represents the essence of the Mission, Vision and Core Values of Hennessey Elementary School. She contributes an unwavering commitment to children she serves and to her team of colleagues through the school transformation process. Because of teacher leaders like Nicole, Hennessey is Rising!

Kent Heights, Michaela Gallogly
Michaela is described by her colleagues as an extraordinarily talented and collaborative teacher who embraces technology and Blended Learning, inspiring her students and educating them with
creative and engaging instruction.

Oldham, Pamela Watson
Pam Watson is a grade five teacher who is also Lead Teacher for the school. She is an individual that teaches by the example she demonstrates each and every day. Pam is a distinguished professional, who is respectful of all others, and continues to be an avid adult learner who is truly supportive and collaborative of her colleagues. Of particular strength, Mrs. Watson sets high expectations for all students as she provides opportunities to meet these expectations daily. Mrs. Watson is also a well-liked, very involved member of the East Providence Community.

Orlo Avenue, Bethany Knott
Betsy continues to use her vast Special Education knowledge and background in her every day teaching to all students. She has fostered a school family that is evident as soon as you walk in her door. Students know they are cared for and important. Betsy has been extremely helpful in bringing Conscious Discipline to her classroom, on her own time. She also continues to learn about it by participating in a book study. Betsy also takes any and all opportunities to enhance her curriculum with blended learning and seeks help to make it happen. She is open to feedback and willing to help any and all staff when needed.

She is very collaborative and always approachable. Teachers enjoy working with her and appreciate her willingness to try new ideas/plans. She is well respected by her student's, their parents, and our colleagues. She is extremely patient and beyond dedicated. She also motivates her students to have confidence and doesn't judge them for having a learning disability. Knott is warm, loving, kind, intelligent, fun/funny, professional, respectable, approachable, and fair. She does what she does not because it's her job, but because she wants to. She brings energy to all she does and her smile is contagious!

Silver Spring, Denise Swan
Denise Swan is a first grade teacher at Silver Spring Elementary School who collaborates with colleagues, is willing to take risks incorporating challenging learning experiences that engage students and, provides students with opportunities to be self-directed with a positive and nurturing manner. In addition, Denise's friendly and welcoming demeanor enables her to effectively communicate with stakeholders in order to ensure that her students have a wonderful school experience. In addition to Denise's responsibilities in the classroom, she also coordinates Chance to Dance, which is a wonderful program that our students and our families love. Silver Spring Elementary School is an amazing learning community and Denise Swan is a wonderful representative for the school and district.

Waddington, Linda Lewis
Mrs. Lewis is truly one of the nicest people you will ever meet. Her persona is marked by a genuinely cheerful smile, warm heart and bright caring eyes. Her lovely professional style and courteous manner are two reasons she has been chosen as AM Waddington School's 2018 Teacher of the Year. Her students describe her as kind, loving, fun, beautiful and intelligent.
Reading is her passion and that passion inspires students to go on a journey with her that will undoubtedly change their lives forever. In the lower grades she presents children with a secret code that promises to lead them to valuable treasure. What child does not love a treasure hunt? In the upper grades, that pursuit continues as young readers discover life through rich authentic texts about characters, relationships, daily life and anything else that interests them about the world. She turns non-readers into readers and readers into researchers. Watching her work unfold is a precious treasure to behold!

It is not unusual to see her with a large pad with lists neatly written in cursive to keep track of every detail of whatever project she is working on; and she works on a lot of projects] During meetings she takes copious notes and puts checkmarks or lines through things so we will have a record to refer back to. While her lists are never messy, she takes special care to have her husband, Mr. Lewis, make Xcel sheets of important data for future use. At a moment's notice, she is literally able to turn around and grab needed history to shed light on a subject so we can make the best decision. She has the amazing ability to work through information systematically so that no important thing is left undone.

Mrs. Lewis also acts as a liaison to families and the community. She assists with our Foster Grandparents Program, coordinates our RSVP Reads volunteers, facilitates the summer reading take home kits and presents parent workshops whenever called upon. Our annual Reading Week Celebration would not happen without her as she is the one that recruits and energizes a committee, guides discussion and delegates responsibilities so that students are immersed in creative, delightful activities year after year.

Whiteknact, Amy Resnick
Teacher Leadership Academy, PBIS Team, Reading Week Committee, School Improvement Team, RTI Team, Transition Committee and Director of Camp Invention. These are only part of the reason Amy Resnick was chosen as Whiteknact's Teacher of the Year. More importantly, student centered, tech savvy, inspiring, engaging, hard-working, motivating, enthusiastic ...these are some of the many words that one would use to describe Amy Resnick. Walking into Amy's classroom is an educational opportunity for all, students and colleagues. You are engaged from the minute you enter to the minute you leave. Amy allows her students to take the lead on their learning and can be creative and flexible in order to balance all that needs to be done. Amy is in a league of her own when it comes to going above and beyond each and every day. You can walk into her room at any time and you will experience a fun, engaging, collaborative learning environment where everyone feels safe, welcome and comfortable to take a risk or make a mistake because of the culture she has created. Anyone who has ever walked into Amy's classroom knows and can see the true dedication and inspiration she is to her students and colleagues.

Pre-K @ Martin, Linda Murphy
Murphy is a teacher in the State PreK Program at Martin Middle School. Throughout her years in the district she has served on many different committees including, but not limited to PBIS, RTI and most recently Family Engagement, and Curriculum Development. According to her colleagues she is extremely flexible and always willing to assist on a project or task. Her willingness to collaborate, support or assist any member of the staff is immeasurable. She reaches out, shares ideas and is always willing to jump in and help. If she is unsure of any task or request, she independently seeks out resources to assist her in solutions and shares her findings with everyone she believes will benefit. She is creative with projects and takes initiative. She celebrates the successes of others but, is last to take credit for anything. She is a strong team member and respects all.

This year she undertook the development of informational brochures for all PreK families to assist them in understanding the standards their children are being held to. It provides information about purposeful play activities to work on together at home in all of the content areas. This serves to promote the importance of family involvement in their student's education which Mrs. Murphy strongly supports. She welcomes families into her classroom regularly to participate in family engagement activities.

Parental comments include: "Mrs. Murphy is inspirational and child centered. She works to enhance each student's growth and development. She is approachable and supportive". "Mrs. Murphy plays an active and useful role in her classroom. She is understanding and caring. Mrs. Murphy follows rules/procedures and expects children to do the same. She also promotes a great learning environment and always welcomes families". "Mrs Murphy has a student-centered mindset, she shares best practice and promotes the academic, social emotional and physical growth of all her students". "Mrs. Murphy is so kind, patient and caring. She has helped my son in so many ways. I truly appreciate everything she has done for him".

Retired Teacher Karen Oliveira to Seek Ward 3 School Committee Seat
Karen Oliveira, a retired East Providence public school teacher, has announced that she is seeking the Ward Three School Committee seat in the upcoming November election. The Ward Three seat is currently held by Nate Cahoon who is running for the Ward Three City Council seat held now by Joe Botelho. Oliveira has taught at Kent Heights and Whiteknact elementary schools and retired as the Math Department Coordinator for Riverside Middle School. She has taught for thirty-three years.

"I've been a proud educator in East Providence and thoroughly enjoyed working with children and families in this community," said Oliveira in her announcement. "I believed in staying active beyond the basic classroom as I was glad to volunteer time on PTA boards, School Improvement Teams, several curriculum writing committees and anything that would help our students learn," Oliveira added.

"I hope to offer our School Committee a well-rounded experience as I've not only been in the classroom for thirty-three years, but I am a proud parent, wife, grandparent and community member. My husband Norbert and I are lifelong East Providence residents and want to contribute to our current and future educational system," said Oliveira. "Additionally as a taxpayer I truly understand that there has to be a balance between supporting education and wisely funding our schools. Reasonable policies must be considered while still providing the best for our children. I look forward to providing that common sense balance in supporting quality education in East Providence. I will work tirelessly to ensure that all East Providence’s children will receive an equitable, inclusive, quality education."

Rodericks receives Briden, Capobianco Endorsements
City Council-at-Large candidate Bob Rodericks has picked up endorsements from Mayor and At-Large Councilman James Briden and former Councilwoman Tracy Capobianco. "I know it’s well known how much I care for our community and I hope all my family and friends who love EP as much as I do will consider joining me in supporting Bob Rodericks for the City Council at Large position this upcoming election," said Capobianco. "I greatly appreciate and welcome the support of Tracy. Her love of EP and support of positive attitudes for government is well known and a good example for all of us to emulate," replied Rodericks.

"I endorse Bob Rodericks for the At-Large Council seat for the City of East Providence. I know Bob to be a truly good person who cares greatly about our City," said Mayor Briden. My numerous discussions with Mr. Rodericks over the years on a wide range of issues convince me that he has an in depth understanding of the operations of our municipal government. His knowledge, experience and good moral character make him highly qualified to serve on the Council. A lifelong Townie, he has a genuine concern for the long term well-being of EP. It is therefore my great honor to support Bob Rodericks," Briden stated in a press release.

"I am humbled to receive Mayor Briden's support," responded Rodericks. "I have always found Jim Briden to be a person of integrity and reason. His calmness through a series of difficult issues has helped guide the City of East Providence. I appreciate and respect his endorsement," Rodericks added.

Ward 3 Democrats Make Endorsements
The Ward 3 Democratic Committee has issued a statement in which they announce support for the following candidates for elected office this November. In some cases there may be a September primary run-off needed. Ward 3 endorses Karen Oliveira for Ward 3 School Committee. They also offer support for Nathan Cahoon for Ward 3 Council, citywide endorsed candidates Bob DaSilva for Mayor, Bob Rodericks for City Council-at-Large and also Gregg Amore for District 65 State Representative.

City Water System Improvements Continue
One of the final stages of the water system improvement project is underway. In a regular June council meeting the go-ahead was given for the city looking to receive up to $2M in Rhode Island Infrastructure Bank funding. The city would have 15 years to repay the loan. No rate increase is called for due to prior budget planning for this project.

Involved is an aeration system which filters out disinfection residue which has caused warning letters to be mailed to residents. Once again officials described that Federal EPA mandates are the reason for the upsetting warnings, not any real health threats. New storage tanks have been built at the Kent Heights site and this step of filtration will eventually eliminate the warnings that have been issued. The overall $18M effort should be completed by August.

Car Tax Waiver Denied City by State
The city council was told in June that its request to the state legislature for a car tax refund, of sorts, is denied this year. As East Providence continues to have a different fiscal year than the rest of Rhode Island, the budget year timing does not give rise to the reimbursement. Acting City Manager Malcolm Moore said he will try again this fall. Te changing of the city tax year would be a costly item to initiate. The city is grappling with ways in which to gradually implement the change.

EP Arts Council Accepting Submissions for 2018 Festival
The East Providence Arts Council is accepting submissions for The Looff 2018-East Providence Arts Festival, winner of the 2018 ProJo Reader's Choice Award for Best Festival and Best Local Event. The festival takes place August 11th (Rain Date Aug 12th) at historic Crescent Park in East Providence RI. "We are seeking fine artists who create paintings, ceramics, photography, sculpture, handmade jewelry, fiber and glass. Acceptance will be on a rolling basis."
Please follow the link below for the submission form: http://www.eastprovidencearts.org/the-looff-submission.html.

St. Mary's Bay View Notes

Bay View Students Earn Awards at RIMEA Solo and Ensemble Festival
On Saturday, May 19th, 2018, ten students from St. Mary Academy - Bay View earned awards at the Rhode Island Music Education Association (RIMEA) Solo and Ensemble Festival. The event was held at Rhode Island College and students from around the state performed in front of professional musicians where they received a score based on criteria that are required for excellence in musical performance. The following Bay View students received awards:

Chorus:
Jessica Lamoureux (Scituate) - Vocal Performance - Superior
Grace Farrow (Providence) - Vocal Performance - Superior
Orchestra:
Gold
Sinan Zhao (Providence) - Piano
Rebekah Pendrak (North Providence) - Cello
Theresa Der Manouelian (Warwick) - Piano
Silver
Grace Hamel (Lincoln) - Clarinet
Emma Gladziszewski (Scituate) - Flute
Alison McIntyre (Cumberland) - Trumpet
Olivia Martin (North Kingstown) - Flute
Bronze
Palmer Berry (Warwick) - Cello

ST. MARY ACADEMY - BAY VIEW CELEBRATES ITS 142nd COMMENCEMENT
On the evening of Monday, June 4th, 2018, the 104 members of St. Mary Academy - Bay View’s Class of 2018 donned white robes, gloves and caps, and were awarded their diplomas at the Cathedral of Saints Peter and Paul in Providence, RI. This marks the 142nd commencement ceremony since the Academy opened in 1874.

Sister Marybeth Beretta (Providence, RI), President of St. Mary Academy - Bay View, addressed the Class of 2018 with inspiring remarks for the journey beyond Bay View. Encouraging the graduates to consider their moment in history, Sister Marybeth spoke of the power of their potential as women educated in the Mercy tradition - women for which a needy world is waiting. “My hope is that you define [your education] as one that not only prepared you academically, but also fostered in you the Mercy values of compassion, justice, social responsibility, civic-mindedness, and integrity - that your education planted seeds in you capable of changing the world, if you continue to water them. Take your place as women who speak with a voice of compassion and concern for others, who are moved to action to address and heal the inequities in our society.”

The following East Providence residents are among the Bay View Class of 2018:
Sarah Barcelos
Amanda Bettencourt
Allison Dillon
Nicole Krause, The Rhode Island College Book Award
Jalynne Ovalles-Cardany
Abigail Conley
Alexis DaSilva, Mercy Honor Award
Kelsea Dawson
Emma Dombrowski
Kailey Williams, The Creative Achievement Award
Hope Briden

Bay View Students Moving Up to the Upper School:
East Providence Residents:
Orla Feld
Victoria Holden
Madyson Horton
Ava Troino
Gabriela Valotto
Grace Bourassa
Sophia Mutti
Kathryn Nelson
Elizabeth White