Interim Superintendent Takes Over Troubled Providence Schools

PROVIDENCE, RI — In the aftermath of a bombshell report detailing failing students, crumbling buildings and general dysfunction in Providence schools, a new superintendent has taken the helm.

Dr. Frances Gallo has been named interim superintendent. On Thursday, her first day in office, she toured three schools with Providence Mayor Jorge Elorza, visiting summer two summer learning programs and a professional development workshop for teachers.

"I am excited to join the Providence Public School District community and to get right to work," Gallo said. "As we begin to look at the changes that need to happen in our school community, it’s important that we always put our kids first and set a strong foundation in a new, positive school culture. I look forward to working with all members of PPSD to bring about positive change."

Gallo visited the summer English Language Learner program, as well as the Extended School Year celebration, and end-of-year party for special education students in need of services beyond the regular school year.

The new interim superintendent comes on board during a precarious time for Providence schools. At the end of the school year, a scathing report by the Johns Hopkins Institute for Education Policy painted a grim picture of a district in "crisis," in the words of Governor Raimondo. According to the report, the vast majority of Providence students are nowhere near their grade level in terms of achievement, with 90 percent of students not proficient in math. In addition, widespread bullying and crumbling school infrastructure create an environment that is not conducive to learning.

"Very little visible student learning was going on in the majority of classrooms and schools we visited," the report read in part, continuing that there was an "exceptionally low level of academic instruction" happening at schools.

Elorza said he is confident that Gallo will move Providence's schools in the right direction.

"I am excited by Dr. Gallo’s confirmation as Interim Superintendent by the Providence School Board," Elorza said."Dr. Gallo joins a team of committed individuals seeking meaningful and impactful change in the Providence Public School District and represents the priorities of our community during this time of transition: student-centered processes, robust community engagement, and sustainable investments for long-term success. Dr. Gallo’s leadership will be critical in moving our city's schools forward."