October 2, 2026
City Schools Facing Estimated $1.3M Deficit
Call it an unfriendly welcome to new East Providence School Superintendent Dr. Robert Perry as he is faced with a reported $1.3 million budget deficit, but Dr. Perry and school administrators will have to figure something out as the current budget year ends at the end of October 2026. Perry has two independent consultants with the district’s brand-new finance director working on the problem. At the August 11th School Committee meeting, Perry said he would address three areas. The opening of schools, a facility update and the financial situation which has been an open discussion for the summer.
“I have met with all school principals and administrators and asked the question, are you ready for the opening of school?” Perry told the committee that the response from everyone was a resounding “yes.” Perry announced several opening activities, retreats and new teacher orientations and professional development.
Facilities Director Dan Carpenter said buildings and projects are all ready for students and staff. Carpenter explained that several school renovations are substantially completed. Carpenter did mention that it will take time to fix a problem with delamination that is occurring with the high school auditorium floor. “That may need a new hardwood install instead of more laminated board.”
Superintendent Perry then discussed the rumored $1.3M school budget deficit. Perry described a timeline of events that led up to his appointment as superintendent. The former school Finance Director resigned on June 26, 2026. Perry started on July 1 and a new controller position which had been vacant for some time was hired on July7th. The school staff accountant resigned on August 4th. “I came into this position (superintendent) with no finance director and other staffing issues. I brought in some experts to help ascertain our financial situation,” said Perry. He referred to hiring independent temporary consultants. “This comes at a price,” referring to their stipends, “which are in line with their experience and state comparisons.”
The school budget problems are identified in three major areas. Out of city special education at over $1M unexpected; transportation estimates beyond $900K and some $325K over utility projections. One problem mentioned was the overdue school department FY25 audit which had not been completed. Without having the audited figures did not help with financial planning and projections.
One bit of positive information was that the $1.3M deficit was not the reported $3M figure that was running through the community. “We’re not happy but we are happier that we’ve determined the deficit is closer to $1.3 and therefore easier to manage,” said Perry. “I think the problem was basically understaffing. The former finance director, Alexandra Gonzalez, had resigned on June 26, and we didn’t have a controller for months. Then add the staff accountant resigned on August 4th.”
“There is nothing you can do about staffing that would be impactful. That would have to have been done by June 1st,” said consultant Joe Crowley. “The expenses were there; it was the budget that was short.”
City Schools Looking at more Student Cell Phone Restrictions
The East Providence School Committee and Superintendent are looking at ways to best comply with a new State Law that prohibits use of cell phones by students in middle and high school. Rhode Island has enacted a law that prohibits students from using cell phones during school hours, effective August 1, 2026. This legislation mandates that public schools implement policies restricting access to electronic devices throughout the school day. Every public school in Rhode Island must establish a policy that prohibits student access to cell phones during school hours. The bill received unanimous approval from both the Rhode Island House and Senate before being signed into law by Governor Dan McKee.
“While cell phones and other personal electronics have become a part of everyday life for most of us, they are also an immense distraction at school. Fortunately, there is growing recognition that kids are better able to focus and succeed academically, socially and emotionally when schools are device-free. All students and schools in Rhode Island will benefit when kids can engage in real life with their teachers and peers,” said Senator Murray (D-Dist. 24, Woonsocket, North Smithfield), said a bill sponsor in a state house release.
The legislation (2025-S 0771A, 2025-H 5598A) would require each public school to have a policy regarding the use of personal electronic devices on school grounds and during school-sponsored activities, including a prohibition on physical access during the school day, with exceptions allowed for assistive technology and other special needs specified in a students individual education plan (IEP) or 504 plan, for medical needs such as glucose monitoring or for emergent multilingual learners for language access programs. Exceptions shall also be made in the event of an emergency.
To address privacy concerns in situations when a school might confiscate a device held by a student in violation of the policy, the bill was amended to add a provision that prohibits schools from searching the contents of any student’s personal electronic device.
“Here in Rhode Island, several districts and schools have already developed strong policies in collaboration with parents, social workers, educators and administrators. The results are positive: students in these communities are more attentive, engagement has improved, and behavioral problems have drastically declined. Beyond the classroom, there is eye contact in the hallways, loud chatter has returned to the lunchroom, and social connections are thriving again,” said bill sponsors.
However, East Providence School Committee members have many reservations about the law. One is the cost. The district has decided to go with a company that provides the special pouches needed at a cost of over $70,000. The money would come from a Project Aware grant but is still an unfunded mandate of sorts. The district is free to come up with alternative policy preventing cell phone use “bell to bell” or all school day.
“Regardless of my beliefs personally, this is state law,” said Ward 1 committee member, Ryan Queenan.
EPHS Career Center Director Lauded
Robert “Bob” Hanlon, Director of the East Providence Career and Technical Center, has been named the Top CTE Administrator in the State of Rhode Island by the Rhode Island Association for Career and Technical Education (RIACTE). “Since taking the helm in 2021, Bob has transformed the CTE programs: Expanded student enrollment from ~700 to over 1,000+ students! Championed work-based learning & strong community partnerships! Built clear pathways toward economic mobility & high-wage careers for our Townies! Thank you, Director Hanlon, for your vision, dedication, and leadership. This statewide recognition is so well-deserved,” said an EPHS statement. Hanlon was previously the Martin Middle School Social Studies Department Coordinator, an Assistant Principal at Mt Hope High School in Bristol, RI. and has also taught at Riverside Middle School and East Providence High School.
SEPTEMBER 9th PRIMARY ELECTION
Legally qualified voters of East Providence can vote in a Primary Election held on Wednesday, September 9, 2026 from 7:00 AM To 8:00 PM at the following polling places:
VOTING DISTRICT POLLING PLACE
WARD SEN REP PLACE
1 14 63 Francis School, 64 Bourne Ave
1 14 63 City View Manor, 99 Goldsmith Ave.
2 14 63 Whiteknact School, 261 Grosvenor Ave.
1 18 63 Rumford Towers, 95 Newman Ave.
1 18 63 Francis School, 64 Bourne Ave.
2 18 63 East Prov. Senior Center 610 Waterman Ave
2 14 64 St. Francis Church Hall 81 N. Carpenter St.
2 14 64 Hennessey School 75 Fort St.
3 14 64 Martin Middle School 111 Brown St.
3 14 65 Fuller Learning Center 260 Dover Ave
3 14 65 Kent Heights School, 2680 Pawtucket Ave.
3 18 65 Riverside Congregational, 295 Bullocks Pt. Ave.
4 18 65 Harbor View Manor, 3663 Pawtucket Ave.
4 18 65 Riverside Library, 475 Bullocks Pt. Ave.
4 32 65 Crescent Park Manor, 243 Crescent View Ave.
4 32 66 Waddington School, 101 Legion Way
4 32 66 Riverside Middle School 179 Forbes St.
POLLING PLACE CHANGE: IF YOU PREVIOUSLY VOTED AT OLDHAM SCHOOL (formerly Meadowcrest) 60 BART DR. YOU WILL NOW BE VOTING AT RIVERSIDE MIDDLE SCHOOL 179 FORBES ST.
City Receives $50K Grant for After School Programs
Governor Dan McKee and Education Commissioner Angélica Infante-Green announced late last month recipients of the fifth round of Learn365RI grants, awarding $1.629 million to communities across the state to expand access to high-quality afterschool, summer, and out-of-school learning opportunities for Rhode Island students.
Since its launch, Learn365RI has focused on ensuring that every Rhode Island student has access to enriching learning experiences every day of the year, helping to accelerate academic achievement, strengthen student well-being, and support workforce readiness through partnerships among schools, municipalities, community organizations, and families.
“Learning does not stop when the school day ends, and neither does our commitment to Rhode Island students,” said Governor Dan McKee. “Through Learn365RI, we are investing in communities across our state to provide students with engaging opportunities to learn, grow, and thrive all year long. These partnerships help create stronger pathways to academic success and future careers.”
“We’re pleased to announce yet another round of vital state investments to support student achievement and expand learning opportunities beyond the classroom,” said Commissioner Angélica Infante-Green. “By partnering with municipalities and community organizations, we are helping students access enriching experiences that build critical skills, improve engagement, and support long-term success. This is a direct investment in the future of Rhode Island.”
Learn365RI is part of Rhode Island's broader effort to ensure students have access to meaningful learning experiences beyond the traditional school day and year. Programs supported through Learn365RI connect students with academic enrichment, career exploration, mentoring, arts education, STEM opportunities, athletics, and social-emotional supports that help them succeed in school and in life.
Young Innovators Advisory Committee
East Providence Mayor Bob DaSilva has created the “Mayor’s Young Innovators Advisory Committee” to advise and consult the administration on issues impacting our cities youth. In a statement the city administration posted, “The future of East Providence belongs to the next generation, and it is essential that young people have a meaningful seat at the table as we continue moving our city forward,” Mayor Bob DaSilva said. “The goal of creating the Mayor’s Young Innovators Advisory Committee is about empowering our youth to share their vision and perspective on helping guide East Providence toward the future they hope to see.”
Mayor DaSilva signed Executive Order 2026-003 establishing the committee on Thursday, July 30, 2026 which will be chaired by recent East Providence High School graduate, Hope Moran and vice-chaired by Jayla DaGraca.
"It’s a huge privilege and honor to have been appointed Chair of the Mayor’s Young Innovators Advisory Committee,” Hope Moran said. I am incredibly thankful for the opportunity to continue giving back to the East Providence community in this role. As a former student of the East Providence Public Schools, I’ve seen firsthand the passion, creativity, and energy that our young people bring to this community. This committee is an incredible opportunity to give the next generation of leaders a seat at the table and create a direct connection between young people and our local government. By providing young innovators with a platform to share their ideas and take action, I am confident that we can create a wave of positive change in East Providence. I look forward to working alongside Mayor DaSilva, city officials, and my fellow committee members to ensure that young people’s voices are not only heard but are actively involved in shaping the future of our city. I’m excited to collaborate with this group of young leaders and continue moving East Providence forward!"
The committee shall be comprised of seven members, in addition to the ex officio members aged between the ages of 16-26 for a one-year term but remain a part of the committee until a successor is appointed. In order to qualify, candidates will be required to submit an application, letter of intent and a letter of recommendation, be required to attend 80% of all meetings with advanced notice for absences and for those in high school or college, they will be required to maintain a 2.5GPA which will be checked quarterly.
If you or someone you know is interested in taking part in civic engagement opportunities aimed toward quality of life, affordable and workforce housing, employment opportunities and more you can apply at https://onboard.eastprovidenceri.gov/board/8130.
City Aligns Ordinance with State Law
On Tuesday, August 11, 2026, the City Council approved an ordinance amending Chapter 19 of the Revised Ordinances to update Section 19-360.12 regarding attached single-family dwellings. The change brings East Providence’s zoning code into full compliance with Rhode Island General Laws 45-24-33(26) and 45-24-37(j). This update clearly defines and permits attached single-family dwellings, such as townhomes, in appropriate zones that already allow multi-family housing. It expands housing options, supports responsible density, and creates additional pathways to homeownership while maintaining neighborhood standards. As a result, the City advances fair, predictable zoning that aligns with state law and helps meet local housing needs.
BridgePoint Christian Church Annual School Fair
The BridgePointe Christian Church team in collaboration with the East Providence School Department held their 14th annual back to school backpack and school supply fair. “Nicely done by all of the volunteers. More than 1300 families came to get ready for start of school,” said Mayor Bob DaSilva. Bridgepoint Church has been sponsoring a Back-to-School Fair for East Providence residents since 2013. Students in need have been provided with necessary school supplies and even services as dental assistance, etc. The fair was held in late August at East Providence High School. “Students entering kindergarten through 5th grade in our local community were invited to attend on August 22nd. It was a free, fun, back-to-school festival for elementary students in our community! It was so good to see so many families and community partners at our Back to School Fair this year!,” said a statement on the church website. “If you were one of our volunteers – thank you. (The event) was not possible without your willingness to serve. If you met us today for the first time, we want you to know you are always welcome to come join us on Sunday. We hope to see you soon! https://bpri.church.
Ray Anderson Celebrates 100 Years
Family and friends of Raymond Conrad Anderson celebrated his 100th birthday with a party on August 29th at the Narragansett Jetty in Riverside. Local musician Pat Lowell provided entertainment, and a crowd was expected to pack the Jetty which is at the tip of the Riverside peninsula known as “The Terrace.” Ray, as most call him, was born August 28, 1926, in Providence. Ray is a lifelong resident of East Providence. He first lived on Reed Street in Riverside, RI. Then Ray lived on Pawtucket Avenue. During WWII Ray lived through the nighttime blackouts reading books while the windows were covered and listened to the war reports on the radio. Ray grew up playing and sailing on the water. Most of his life he owned a sailboat. In 1951 Ray married the love of his life, Barbara Gallup. Barbara was also an active sailor and very successful small boat racing skipper. In 1959 they bought a house together on Riverside Drive on the Terrace. Ray and Barbara raised one child on the Terrace (Brad Anderson) Barbara lived there with Ray until her passing in 1998.
Ray worked for the Providence Gas company until retirement. He was heavily involved in scouting for over 30 years having his son and grandson make Eagle scout. Ray’s son Brad has two children (Keith and Julie) who have given him three great grandchildren. Ray is still an avid sailor and outdoorsman with a sailboat in his yard on Bullocks Cove. He admits the biggest changes he has seen during his lifetime is the advent of computers and cell phones. For one hundred years old, you will be impressed in how he stays active both physically and mentally.
The Reporter will provide an online update after the event at www.ReporterToday.com
Beloved Retired EP Teacher Dies in Fall
Retired East Providence teacher, Jean Goulet, died on August 13th after a fall down a stairway in a Barrington nail salon. The Barrington police believe she opened the door to the basement thinking it was a bathroom. "It's sad. It's sent a shock through the community," said Bob Rodericks, Goulet's next-door neighbor and a former colleague in the school system.
Goulet taught school at Riverside Junior High and East Providence High School for 30 years. She was a president of the East Providence Education Association and "she was a strong, thoughtful, and effective leader who never lost sight of the shared mission of serving students and families," according to a joint statement from the East Providence School Department and the East Providence Education Association.
"Jean earned the respect of those on all sides of the table through her integrity, determination, and commitment to finding solutions," the organizations said. "She understood that strong schools are built not only through programs and policies, but through relationships, trust, and a genuine respect for the people who do this important work every day."
A lifelong EP resident, Jean was a 1965 graduate of EPHS and in retirement was a trainer of prospective teachers at the University of Rhode Island. Goulet was 79. She leaves behind a daughter, son-in-law and two grandchildren.
Three-Peat for K9 Nick
The East Providence Police proudly announce that for the third year in a row, the department's K9 Nick and his handler, Lieutenant Sandra Bonvehi, have won 1st place at the 2026 Connecticut Dream Ride Police K9 Challenge. “Nick once again came out on top in the Explosives Detection/Fastest Explosives Search competition, putting his exceptional training, focus and detection skills on display against K9 teams from across the region,” said a police department statement. “Lieutenant Bonvehi and Sergeant Rainville and K9 Okki represented the East Providence Police Department throughout the competition in a variety of challenging events. Both teams performed exceptionally well and represented our department with professionalism and pride.”
K9 Nick's three straight championships are an incredible accomplishment and a testament to the dedication of theK9 teams and their handlers. The Reporter celebrates the three-time champion in explosives detection for K9 Nick! Congratulations to K9 Nick, Lieutenant Bonvehi, Sergeant Rainville and K9 Okki.
E-Bike and Scooter Crashes Increase
The East Providence Police Department has seen a sharp increase in crashes involving e-bikes and e-scooters. Most involve juvenile riders. “Please educate your family members on the importance of safe operation. Violations of RIGL and East Providence city ordinances pertaining to e-bikes can result in hefty fines and seizure of the bikes,” police officials remind the public-at-large. “Since 2020 there have been at least 1,000 traffic incidents involving e-bikes and e-scooters,(Brown University Health). We've had a surge of injuries from e-bikes and e-scooters. Wear a helmet, go slow, and know where you are allowed to ride. And remember, children under 16 are prohibited from riding e-bikes and e-scooters,” said a Rhode Island Police Chiefs Association statement.
Annual Brass Attack End-of-Summer Concert!
The annual End-of-Summer BRASS ATTACK concert & classic car show at historic Crescent Park on the waterfront, is on Saturday, September 12th from 2 pm to 6:30 pm. Bring a lawn chair and get ready to dance to one of the nation's best dance bands. Featuring RI Music Hall of Famer and Riverside's own - Dave Tanury! A Classic Car Show begins at 2 pm. Concert is 4:30 - 6:30 pm. Don't miss it! All free.
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