Why I Serve Ward 2: Antonio U. deSimas

I’m Antonio “Tony” deSimas, and I serve as vice chair of the East Providence School Committee. I’m seeking reelection to continue representing Ward 2.

East Providence is home to me. My parents came here from São Miguel in the Azores—my father from Ponta Garça and my mother from Rabo de Peixe. They worked hard for our family and taught me to take my responsibilities seriously. Those lessons have stayed with me as a husband, father, neighbor, and School Committee member.

My wife and I are raising six children. Like many parents, we’ve experienced the joy of watching our children grow and the frustration of trying to find answers when one of them needs help. That experience was one reason I became involved with the School Committee. Families should be able to ask questions, understand the process, and know that someone is listening. Every child deserves a real opportunity to succeed, including children who need additional support.

My involvement in East Providence began long before I ran for office. I was a founding member and former president of the East Providence Junior Townies Youth Football and Cheerleading program. Working with young people and families there taught me how much a community can accomplish when people give their time and work together. I also serve on the East Providence Prevention Coalition board and as a trustee of the East Providence Columbus Club. My faith and service through the Knights of Columbus are another important part of my life.

For 32 years, I’ve worked in golf ball research and development at Titleist. My work has taught me to study a problem, ask questions, test ideas, and keep working until I understand what is causing it. I bring that same approach to the School Committee. I don’t expect every difficult issue to have a quick answer, but I do believe we owe families thoughtful decisions and a clear explanation of how we reached them.

During my time on the committee, I’ve learned how often student needs, staffing, transportation, and finances affect one another. I want us to look carefully at those connections. That means getting useful information before decisions are made, listening to families and educators, and making responsible use of public funds. It also means working with district leaders and asking hard questions when something needs a closer look.

I’m proud to serve Ward 2, and I know there is more work to do. I’ll keep showing up, listening, and doing my homework. If you have a concern or an idea about our schools, I want to hear it.

Best regards,
Antonio U. deSimas
Vice Chair, Ward 2 School Committee