Providence Council faces backlash over charter school lease for Excel Academy

The Providence City Council meeting on May 12, 2025, was marked by heated discussions surrounding a proposed lease for the Carl Laurel Building, which has become a focal point in the ongoing debate over charter schools in the city. The meeting featured passionate testimonies from educators, parents, and students, reflecting deep concerns about the implications of the lease for Providence Public Schools (PPSD) and the community at large.

One of the most significant points raised was the financial impact of charter schools on public education funding. Shannon McClelland, a vice president of the Providence Teachers Union, criticized the lease as a "disastrous" decision that would benefit a "big box charter company" at the expense of public schools. She highlighted that while $2 million from the lease is earmarked for PPSD, the district is reportedly losing $30 million to charter schools, raising questions about the sustainability of public education funding in Providence.

Several speakers echoed McClelland's concerns, arguing that charter schools like Excel Academy do not serve all students equitably. Lindsay Paiva, a third-grade teacher, pointed out that the financial resources are being diverted from public schools to serve a select group of students, which does not reflect the diversity of the community. She urged the council to consider alternative uses for the building, such as affordable housing, rather than leasing it to a charter organization.

In contrast, students from Excel Academy, including seventh-grader Zoe Rangel, expressed their support for the lease, emphasizing the positive impact the school has had on their education and community. Rangel noted that a closer location would significantly benefit students by reducing commute times and allowing for more time to focus on academics and extracurricular activities.

The council members listened attentively to the testimonies, with some acknowledging the complexities of the situation. The discussions highlighted a broader concern about the future of public education in Providence, as residents grapple with the balance between charter school expansion and the needs of public schools.

As the meeting concluded, the council faced the challenge of making a decision that would not only affect the immediate educational landscape but also shape the long-term future of public education in Providence. The outcome of this lease proposal will likely resonate throughout the community, influencing ongoing debates about funding, equity, and the role of charter schools in the city.