Providence School Board Adopts Resolution Calling for Issuance of $50 Million in School Improvement Bonds

Providence, R.I. (January 30, 2014) – On Monday, January 27, the Providence School Board adopted a resolution calling on the City of Providence to provide funding of $50 million through the issuance of school improvement bonds.

In the resolution, the Board expressed its commitment to safe, caring and orderly environments that nurture effective teaching and learning, and to maintaining attractive, clean and secure schools.

The Board seeks to use the bond funding to renovate or replace some of the city’s 40 school buildings to accommodate 21^st century learning. Providence Schools has long acknowledged the challenges associated with its aging infrastructure – the average age of the buildings is more than 60 years, with seven of the oldest built more than 100 years ago, and only nine buildings either constructed or completely renovated in the last 30 years.

“This investment will be critical to the future of Providence Public Schools and to the learning of the more than 24,000 students we serve,” said School Board President Keith Oliveira. “Despite difficult economic times and fiscal challenges facing our city and our state in recent years, we must acknowledge that our students need and deserve better facilities to support their achievement. As the governing body setting policy for the future of our schools and students, it is our duty to advocate for them, with foresight and urgency.”

The School Board has transmitted its resolution to Mayor Angel Taveras and to City Council President Michael Solomon.