Newport School Committee Member Announces Resignation

NEWPORT, RI — A member of the Newport School Committee stepped down earlier this week, Chairman Raymond Gomes announced on Monday. Kathleen Silvia submitted her letter of resignation, effective immediately.

Gomes said he was "saddened" to see Silvia go.

"I know she has given this decision a great deal of thought and decided it was in her best interest as well as the school committee to step down," he said. "I want to express my deepest appreciation for her service to the children of our schools and her commitment to fighting for what was in the best interest of our students. I know that every decision that Kathy made was based on what she felt was best for our students. I enjoyed serving with Kathy these last four years and I will miss her insight, guidance and especially her attention to the details. I wish Kathy all the best!!"

Gomes did not specify why Silvia stepped down, saying only that she "continues to recuperate."

"I will forever be indebted to Kathy Silvia not only for all her support and the great work she has done for the Newport Public Schools but for her years of service and dedication to the City of Newport," said Superintendent Colleen Burns Jermain. "She is a true steward of all that is good about Newport. I will miss her and wish her the very best."