Brent Kermen, the D'Abate Elementary School Principal, has been the leader of the Olneyville school for 15 years. He has been with the Providence Public School District (PPSD) for 21 years. Beginning as a teacher in the District, he spent six years in 4^th and 5^th grade classrooms. Before working in education, Brent served in the United States Marines for four years, and is a Combat Veteran of the Gulf War.

He earned his Bachelor's degree in Elementary Education from Rhode Island College, and earned his Master's degree in School Leadership from there as well.

Brent's vision for William D'Abate Elementary is for teachers and staff to serve students and families first. A three-star school, D’Abate is committed to academic excellence and high standards.