December News Briefs

New Martin Middle School Opens in December

The highly anticipated ribbon cutting for the “new” Edward R. Martin Middle School was held late last month as classes were set to start in the new building on December 1^st, 2025.  The voter approved $148M ($128 Martin, $20 Waddington) reconstruction of the “new” Edward R. Martin Middle School is nearing completion and will open for students and staff on December 1, 2025.  To date, the extensive project is on budget with the hope of the building committee that a surplus will remain after final completion.  Close to 80% of voters in 2022 approved the issuance of a bond to rehabilitate Martin and parts of Waddington Elementary School in Riverside.  Both had outdated open classroom configurations among other needed renovations.  Most of Martin is being replaced, including all of the open classrooms.  This hybrid approach to construction was planned with keeping what worked and replacing what didn’t.  The remaining areas of Martin include the large and small gymnasiums, band and chorus rooms and the auditorium.  While remaining in place, these areas have received significant improvements.  Acoustics, sound wiring, HVAC, etc., are all being replaced or have been improved.  According to the Martin/Waddington building committee chairman, Manuel Vinhateiro, the old “House Concept” is now gone.  “Each grade will be housed on its own floor. Grade six on floor one, seven on floor two and 8th graders on floor three.  All new office area, security, nurse station, HVAC are 100% new,” said Vinhateiro.  “Even the gym and auditorium will have all new rooftop (HVAC) systems.  The new cafeteria will have full cooking capabilities, unlike the original,” added Vinhateiro, a former high school principal and superintendent in the district. 

The new school, built adjacent to the former school, will reshape the educational landscape for students in grades 6-8 in the city of East Providence. The new facility will feature three floors, one for each grade level ( sixth on the first, seventh on the second, and eighth on the third), 34 modern classrooms equipped with flexible seating options and interactive technology, 3 collaborative learning spaces strategically located through the building to offer areas for teamwork, project-based learning and cross-curricular activities, 6 state-of-the-art science classrooms featuring lab stations, modern equipment, and safety systems to enhance STEM instruction, as well as a media center and art classrooms with a kiln to enhance the school’s ceramics and three-dimensional art offerings.

Officials from the East Providence School District, City of East Providence, the State of Rhode Island and representatives from the Peregrine group, Ai3 Architects and Shawmut Design and Construction joined together to celebrate the official ribbon cutting on the new state-of-the-art 164,443 square foot Middle School.

“The people of East Providence have twice gone out and overwhelmingly supported more than $300 million in school construction bonds to bring our residents a new state-of-the-art high school, new middle school and renovations to other school buildings throughout our city,” Mayor Bob DaSilva said. “Your vote is an investment in our city’s future and a clear affirmation that our community is committed to providing an atmosphere where there is learning across all grade levels.” These investments will not only strengthen our education system but create opportunities for generations of East Providence residents and is another example of how this city is moving forward as the best place to live, learn, work and play,” DaSilva added. 

According to officials, the learning space will also feature computer science and technology classrooms to provide students the opportunity to learn coding, robotics, and digital media, a chorus room, band room and a renovation to the gymnasium including new scoreboards, backboards and structural reinforcement work. The gymnasium will serve as the hub for physical education and athletics, while also functioning as a venue for school assemblies, extracurricular events and community programs.

EPCAP Expands On-Site Health Services for Schools

On Tuesday, November 18, 2025, East Bay Community Action Program (EBCAP) hosted a grand opening of its new health center, East Bay Health Center, located at East Providence’s Sweetland House at 610 Waterman Ave. This new school-partnered health center is made possible through a collaboration with EBCAP, the City of East Providence, UnitedHealthcare Community Plan of Rhode Island, and the East Providence School District.

This project reflects over three years of dedicated planning and execution to create additional resources and a central location for our community to access physical and behavioral health services. As part of this project the City of East Providence invested over $500,000 of Community Development Block Grant funds to assist with re-purposing the building with medical exam and counseling rooms, along with administrative offices to serve East Providence residents for generations to come.

“When I first became aware of the shortage of behavioral health specialists available to support our youth, particularly our East Providence School District students, and hearing that often times when a student was in crisis and a school psychologist or nurse intervened, that it would take weeks, sometimes months, before they could get an appointment, I knew that we needed to do more,” Mayor Bob DaSilva said. “I am grateful that we have East Bay Community Action Program leading the charge in this collaboration between the city, school district and UnitedHealthcare Community Plan of Rhode Island to provide these essential health care services to our community.”

The East Bay Health Center, located in the city’s community hub next door to the East Providence Senior Center and new Community center, is also located across the street from the East Providence High School which will help assist in connecting students and personnel of the East Providence Public Schools with the health center’s staff who will provide comprehensive care including behavioral health services, sports physicals, vaccinations, wellness visits and testing for flu, COVID, and strep. With this new partnership, school nurses and primary care doctors will be able to collaboratively work with the health center’s staff to better aid students and school personnel needing behavioral health services.

“EBCAP is committed to the health and well-being of our community, Rilwan K. Feyisitan, Jr., President and Chief Executive of EBCAP said. “With the opening of our new health center, across the street from East Providence High School, we will be able to expand access to quality health care for the students and staff of the East Providence school community.”

“This center represents a shared commitment to the health, safety and success of our students and staff,” Dr. Sandra Forand, East Providence Superintendent, said. “Here, we are creating a place where every member of our school community can access both mental health and physical health services with dignity, compassion, and care. We know that when we invest in wellness, we invest in learning, growth, and brighter futures,” Dr. Forand added.

Health/medical appointments can be scheduled Mondays to Thursdays from 7:30 am to 4:00 pm. Same-day medical appointments will also be available. Behavioral Health services can be scheduled Mondays to Thursdays from 9:00 am to 6:00 pm.

New Director of Policy & Constituent Services

East Providence Mayor Bob DaSilva has appointed André Herrera as the city’s new Director of Policy & Constituent Services.  Herrera will be responsible for overseeing all constituent affairs and relations to ensure that East Providence provides the highest level of response to our community when they have issues. Herrera will also oversee intergovernmental affairs, serving as the primary point of contact for the city council, state and local elected leaders, and those at the federal level.

“Mr. Herrera will be in charge of ensuring that we continue to provide the best constituent services possible to our residents and businesses,” Mayor Bob DaSilva said. “Mr. Herrera’s background in the private sector and government, both at the federal level and at the local level will ensure that we continue to put East Providence first, as the best place to live, learn, work and play.”

Before joining the City of East Providence, Herrera spent 3 years as the confidential assistant to the Office of the Providence City Council, he spent 3 years as the Deputy Director of Intergovernmental Affairs for U.S. representative David Cicilline and spent a year as the Deputy District Director to U.S. representative Gabe Amo. Most recently, Herrera worked as a Government Relations Manager for Vanguard Renewables out of Boston, Massachusetts leading government affairs strategies, analyzing policy landscapes, and overseeing a team of development managers across multiple sites.

“I am excited to bring my passion for public service and knowledge of Rhode Island politics to this wonderful city,” André Herrera said. “Having worked closely with East Providence residents through my roles in the First Congressional District, I look forward to supporting Mayor DaSilva’s administration and helping to strengthen our community’s future.”  Herrera earned his Master of Arts in Political Science & Government at Boston College and his Bachelor of Arts in Political Science at the University of Rhode Island.

Sister City Relationship Unveiled

The City of East Providence was joined by an official delegation from its sister city, Vila Franca do Campo, Azores, Portugal on Friday, November 7, to commemorate and honor the two cities relationship with a special plaque unveiling and street dedication ceremony.

Mayor Bob DaSilva, Councilwoman Anna Souse and city leaders were joined by Vila Franca do Campo Mayor Dra Graça Melo and Vice Mayor Carlos Pimental to celebrate the enduring bond and cultural ties between the two coastal communities.

“Our sister city relationship with Vila Franca do Campo is a testament to the deep historical, cultural, and familial connections that help make East Providence the best place to live, learn, work and play,” Mayor Bob DaSilva said. “This dedication honors the generations of Azorean families who helped shape East Providence and serves as a reminder of our shared heritage.”

This visit from the Azorean delegation comes just months after a group of East Providence and Rhode Island leaders traveled to the Azores for the Sister Cities Summit, where Mayor Bob DaSilva attended a series of Fundação Luso-Americana conferences, with the objective of fostering international cooperation and understanding through cultural, education and economic changes.

The partnership between East Providence and Vila Franca do Campo further highlights the notable number of residents in the city who trace their ancestral ties to the Azores, which helps to continue to strengthen cultural exchange, collaboration and international relations.

City Yard Waste Policy

The East Providence Public Works Department, Recycling/Refuse Division announces that the Forbes Street compost site will be open to residents to drop off leaves and yard waste on December 6, 2025 from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Residents may drop off leaves, grass, branches no larger than two inches in diameter and other vegetative material suitable for composting at the site. Incoming material must be loose; no plastic bags, contaminants, trash, or fencing material. Residents must show a valid driver’s license or state-issued ID card as proof of residency. No commercial vehicles are permitted.  The last week for curbside Yard Waste collection is December 8, 2025 – December 12, 2025. Collections will resume in the spring.

City Grapples with E-Bike Policy

Mayor Bob DaSilva’s proposal to limit the use of E-Bikes in City parks has proven to rankle some who rely on the transportation. The City Council has given approval to first passage as they review the recommendations for final considerations.  The ordinance would not allow the use of electronic bikes on sidewalks and within parks and fields.  There would be strong penalties for those found in violation.  Many of the provisions of this proposal are already in state law.  The proposal has the support of the local police department. “These e-bikes have literally exploded onto the market in the last couple of years,” said Police Chief Michael Rapoza. “You put a lot of power under somebody’s feet and they might not necessarily know how to handle that, especially some of the younger riders. We’ve seen a lot of accidents with these e-bikes versus vehicles, versus other pedestrians. Some pretty serious injuries resulting from those accidents. So this is going to help us, hopefully, try to educate the public and make sure that they’re following the rules,” added the police chief.  The issue is being further discussed at the early December City Council meeting.  Results and any final vote will be updated on ReporterToday.com.

Brady’s Hot Chocolate Stand Returns with a Flair

This is the third year in a row that Brady and his parents, Cosmo and Lindsey Vieira, have held a hot chocolate fundraiser.  “We thought of the idea to help Mr. Sweeney (Carl Sweeney) with Hope & Faith Drive because he does a lot for the community,” said Lindsey Vieira.  Young Brady Viera responds that “I like to help other kids who need it.”  “We decided that because it has gone well the past couple of years, we would expand Brady’s event and try to increase community donations,” said Brady’s mom Lindsey.  Increase is an understatement as the November 30, 2025 event had a children’s bouncy house, snow making machine, festive music and a large shed-size stand selling Brady’s hot chocolate and treats.  A table had volunteers offering raffle items and Santa Claus and Mrs. Claus greeted area children.  For a good portion of the grey, seasonably cold day, a large crowd was present buying Brady’s hot chocolate drink and making other donations. 

Family statement: “Brady’s Hot Chocolate Stand began in 2023 at our East Providence home, as a simple way for Brady to give back to local charities. What started small has grown into something much bigger, teaching Brady the importance of kindness, generosity, and community spirit.  Since then, Brady’s efforts have been celebrated by Channel 10 News, The East Providence Reporter, EastProv Hospitality, The Today Show with Lester Holt, and even the Boston Celtics. He has also been warmly welcomed at the Roger Williams Park Botanical Center, where he’s hosted multiple events—including one with a special guest, Pat Patriot, mascot of the New England Patriots.  Brady’s Hot Chocolate Stand is more than just a cup of cocoa; it’s proof that even the smallest ideas can make a big difference!”  

Free Community Christmas Dinner - 10^th Year - New Location

The 10^th annual Community Christmas Dinner will be held on Christmas Day, December 25, 2025, from 11:30 am until 4:30 pm.  A free homemade Turkey dinner, dessert and full holiday cheer will be provided, all free of charge.  Winter clothing, toiletries, haircuts and transportation will be provided.  Call 401-378-4102 for further information.  The location has changed and will be held this year at the Santa Maria Club at 846 Broadway in East Providence.  “We have a vital change regarding the upcoming Christmas Community Dinner. The dinner will no longer be held at the Brightridge Club.  The event will now take place at the Santa Maria Club.  All other details, including the date and time, remain the same.  We look forward to celebrating the holiday with you at our new location!  We would like to thank the Brightridge Club for donating the hall for this amazing event the last 9 years,” said dinner organizer Zee Fernandes.