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Board approves sending Lima/Stuart renaming proposal to city council; Newman abstains
Summary
The board voted to forward a resolution recommending the Gilbert Stuart complex be named for Josefina (Dona) Pfeiffer Rosario while retaining Alfred Lima as the school name; members discussed community buy-in and the city council’s authority over building names.
The Providence School Board voted to send a resolution to the Providence City Council recommending the Gilbert Stuart complex be named for Josefina (Dona) Pfeiffer Rosario while retaining the Alfred Lima name for the program currently at the elementary school.
Board member Mendoza introduced the resolution, saying the name would honor the service of Josefina Rosario to the Dominican community. “Together, these names honor our series history, diversified of the people who helped shape the community,” Mendoza said. Supporters argued the resolution recognizes local history and does not erase the Alfred Lima program name; opponents and several members urged a clear, formal process and broader neighborhood consultation before renaming permanent community buildings.
Vice President Newman asked about community buy-in and the standards for renaming, saying she would want evidence of broad parental and neighborhood support before endorsing a change. Board discussion noted that the city council has final authority under state law and that a board resolution is an expression of opinion and a forward to the council for its decision. The motion to forward the resolution passed; Vice President Newman recorded an abstention.
