PROVIDENCE, RI – The Providence Public School District (PPSD) proudly dedicated the new D’Abate Elementary School today with a ceremony attended by Rhode Island Department of Education (RIDE) Commissioner Angélica Infante-Green, Mayor Brett Smiley, Superintendent Dr. Javier Montañez, City Councilor Oscar Vargas, School Board President Erlin Rogel, members of the D’Abate family, and other honored dignitaries from the City Council, School Board, and School Buildings Committee. The dedication event, which included a ribbon cutting and a tour of the new facilities, celebrated the latest completed project under the District’s efforts to provide high-quality learning environments for all students. D’Abate is one of three new school buildings PPSD opened this school year.

The D’Abate project is part of a $1 billion long-term facilities plan to upgrade Providence Public Schools and raise the percentage of students learning in high-quality learning spaces from 5% to 100%. Last month, the Rhode Island Council on Elementary and Secondary Education approved $400 million in support of 18 school facility projects across the district which will help create greater access to high-quality learning facilities.

The dedication ceremony was held in the media center near the main entrance, where select students had the opportunity to hear directly from officials. Following the ceremony, guests were treated to a tour of the new school, highlighting D’Abate’s modern amenities and the recently awarded Green Ribbon Award designation from the United States Department of Education for its commitment to reducing environmental impact and costs, improving health and wellness of students and staff, and providing effective sustainability education.

“We are dedicated to creating high-quality environments where students can thrive and are proud to celebrate yet another 21st century school in Providence. The new D’Abate Elementary School is a shining example of our commitment to excellence in education and is another milestone as we work to ensure 100% of students learn in a new or like new school by the end of the decade,” said RIDE Commissioner Angélica Infante-Green.

“This day is a celebration of resilience and dedication to ensuring our students learn in the best environment possible. Our students now have a learning space that reflects their potential and our shared vision for their success,” said PPSD Superintendent Dr. Javier Montañez.

"As a proud alumnus of William D’Abate Elementary School, seeing the new renovations fills me with immense pride and joy. These upgrades provide our students with a vibrant and modern learning environment, ensuring they have the best possible foundation for their future. It’s heartening to see our school evolve and continue to be a beacon of hope,” said School Board President Erlin Rogel.

“Today marks a significant milestone for our community. The new D’Abate Elementary School embodies our commitment to providing a 21st-century education that meets the needs of every student,” said D’Abate Principal Brent Kermen. 

Following the ceremony, the event concluded with a ribbon cutting ceremony outside, followed by a tour of the school led by Principal Kermen and students. Guests had the opportunity to explore the new classrooms and witness firsthand the innovative and sustainable features that distinguish D’Abate Elementary as a state-of-the-art facility. 

Providence Public Schools is committed to providing a world-class education for all students, preparing them for success in college, career, and life. The District is dedicated to equity and excellence, ensuring that every student has the opportunity to reach their full potential.

For more information about Providence Public Schools, visit www.providenceschools.org. Follow Providence Public Schools on Facebook, X (@pvdschools), or Instagram (@pvdschools) for timely updates.

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