Portsmouth Election Profile: Juan Carlos Payero

PORTSMOUTH, RI — Juan Carlos Payero is running for reelection on the Portsmouth School Committee.

The 32-year-old Democrat has two children, aged 6 and 2. He holds a bachelor's degree from St. John's University and a master's in public administration from Baruch College. He works as the Newport program director for Social Enterprise Greenhouse.

Campaign website: portsmouthdemocrats.com

Why are you seeking elective office?

As a parent of a student in our public schools, I take the actions and decisions I take on the School Committee personally. Since being appointed to the Committee in 2019, I have been working with my colleagues and the administration to ensure that we maintain and develop a district that supports all students and is a great benefit to all Portsmouth residents. My goals for the coming term would be to ensure a measured approach to returning students to school regardless of method, weathering the financial implications of this crisis, and addressing the concerns of racial equity within our district.

What do you believe should be done to contain the coronavirus pandemic, and what would you do to lessen its economic impacts?

The "Rhode Island Way" has proven to work. Developing a measured approach to reopening that takes into account the science, public health concerns, business needs, and a return to a new normal has become a model for the entire nation. The worst thing that can occur is what is happening in the South & West where they're rolling back their reopening, which causes financial and emotional burdens to every member of every community. We need to make the best decisions that will minimize the spread and keep all, especially our children and most vulnerable, safe.

Do you believe systemic racism is a problem in America generally and Rhode Island specifically, and if so, what would you do to combat it?

With the protest occurring across our nation, it would be foolish and discrediting to believe that racism isn’t a problem. We must stand with those that are looking to make sweeping systemic and institutional changes for the betterment of the entire community. This starts in our schools. We need to work with our schools to develop a curriculum that tells all sides of the American story.

Should the words "Providence Plantations" be removed from the state's name?

Yes