The Special Committee on Public Education of the Providence City Council convened its first, organizational meeting on Monday, March 5.  Officers were elected and the drafting of a mission statement was discussed in some detail.

Councilman Cliff Wood, Ward 2, was elected chairman, and Councilman Michael Solomon (Ward 5) was elected vice-chairman.  The Special Committee is further comprised of Councilman Joseph DeLuca (Ward 6), Councilwoman Josephine DiRuzzo (Ward 15), and Councilman Miguel Luna (Ward 9).

“Our mission might best be summarized as a commitment to conduct an open and ongoing conversation with the people of Providence and their elected officials in City government on issues relating to our public education system,” said Chairman Wood.  “The Special Committee will examine relevant topics and serve both as a public forum and the focal point of the Council’s education initiatives.”

All members of the Special Committee agreed that they must provide fresh perspectives on, and fresh airings of educational issues that will remain of critical importance to the future of Providence.  “We will call on experts from all relevant disciplines to inform our deliberations,” Chairman Wood said.  “In addition, we will consult with the School Department, the School Board, and the full City Council as we conduct our business with the utmost transparency and accountability.”

The Special Committee on Public Education plans to meet on a monthly basis, and more frequently as circumstances may dictate.