Applications Open for Central Falls School District Board of Trustees

Published on Friday, March 31, 2023

CENTRAL FALLS, R.I. — The Rhode Island Department of Education (RIDE) today announced applications are open for the Central Falls School District (CFSD) Board of Trustees. The Board of Trustees is the governing body of the school district, responsible for ensuring CFSD provides a high-quality education for all Central Falls students. 

“My Administration shares its gratitude with all Rhode Islanders serving their school communities during this pivotal time in education,” said Governor Dan McKee. “We encourage individuals in the Central Falls community and those looking to serve to consider this excellent opportunity to make an impact on the lives of students, educators, and families. By working together, we will improve student outcomes, expand learning opportunities, and open doors for Central Falls students for generations to come.” 

“As we plan much-needed upgrades to our school facilities district-wide, it’s critical that the leaders guiding our schools are motivated to build and support the most important foundation of all: academic success for all students,” said Central Falls Mayor Maria Rivera. “Our city has many families and community members committed to our students, and I encourage them to apply to serve in this important role.” 

Per RIGL § 16-2-34, members of the Board of Trustees are nominated by the Commissioner of Education and appointed by the Council on Elementary and Secondary Education. To ensure a transparent, collaborative, and inclusive nomination process, a joint search committee will submit recommendations to the Commissioner. In accordance with the district’s current governance structure, the search committee is made up of representatives from the Governor’s Office, Mayor’s Office, Rhode Island Department of Education, the Board of Trustees, and Central Falls families. 

“A committed and collaborative Central Falls Board of Trustees is vital to the success of the school system,” said Chair of the Council on Elementary and Secondary Education Patti DiCenso. “On behalf of the Council, we encourage interested individuals to apply and continue working together to improve student achievement.” 

“To serve on the Board of Trustees is to send a direct message to students, educators, and families that you are deeply invested in their futures. We look forward to welcoming a new slate of public servants onto the Board,” said Commissioner Angélica Infante-Green. “As we begin this process, I want to thank Chair Stephanie Gonzalez, who has served her community as a member of the Board for more than a decade. Additionally, RIDE shares its gratitude with Vice Chair Sonia Grace, as well as all current and former members who remain committed to the city’s students during the most challenging time in our education history. Thank you for your years of service. and we look forward to your continued partnership.” 

"Serving Central Falls in this capacity has been a rewarding and humbling experience,” said Chair of the Board of Trustees Stephanie Gonzalez. “I'm proud of so much, but important work remains ahead. It's time for a new wave of leadership to continue the work on behalf of the children of Central Falls who deserve nothing less than relentless, unwavering advocates on their side." 

The Central Falls Board of Trustees is seeking five candidates for the seven-member board. In accordance with RIGL § 16-2-34, at least three of the five open positions must be filled by residents of the city and parents of current or former Central Falls public school students; no more than two of the five open positions will be appointed as members at large. 

The online application can be accessed here. Individuals can also pick up a copy of the application at Central Falls City Hall, 580 Broad St, Central Falls, RI 02863, during business hours. Copies of the application will also be available at Central Falls School District Administration Building, 934 Dexter Street - Second Floor, Central Falls, RI 02863, between 8:30-4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday. 

An informational meeting will be held on Monday, April 10 from 6-7 p.m. at Dr. Earl F. Calcutt Middle School, 112 Washington Street, Central Falls, RI 02863. Childcare will be provided. 

Applications must be submitted online no later than 5 p.m. on Friday, April 14, and at Central Falls City Hall and CFSD Administration Building prior to closing. Further details regarding engagement opportunities and interviews will be shared at a later date. Members will be appointed by the Council on Elementary and Secondary Education this spring. Appointed members will assume their positions July 1, 2023.