City solicitor outlines Crowley Act changes that clarify board’s advisory duties

City Solicitor Charlie Regerio told the Providence School Board on March 15 that recent changes to the Crowley Act formalize several advisory duties for the board without restoring hiring authority.

"The changes basically require the board to meet a couple additional conditions," Regerio said, summarizing the statute. "The first is to meet at least monthly beginning in March 2023. The other additional obligations are to review and advise the commissioner on the appointment of senior level administrators." He also said the board must receive biannual written reports from the superintendent and the commissioner on progress under the district's Turnaround Action Plan (TAP).

Board members pressed for detail on what "review and advise" means in practice. Dr. Santon asked whether the phrase could be read as an approval process. Regerio replied that the law contemplates an advisory role and that it does not restore the board’s prior authority to approve hires: "It's clear that under the existing legislation, there's not the authority on the board to have to serve as a...approval process." He urged coordination so the board can obtain the information it needs to advise effectively.

Why it matters: The changes aim to create routine oversight and clearer reporting about TAP implementation while keeping key personnel decisions within the commissioner's authority. Board members said they want better access to the underlying materials and regular leadership check-ins so they can discharge the advisory role.

What was said in question-and-answer: Board members repeatedly asked when the statutory duties would 'kick in' if TAP goals are not met, and whether the commissioner must attend monthly meetings. Regerio said the statute requires reporting and coordination but does not compel the commissioner to attend every monthly meeting; it does require biannual written reports to the board and consultation before substantive changes to TAP.

Next steps: Board members asked administration to arrange clearer document flows and to identify which appointments are considered "senior level" so the board can exercise informed advice. Regerio referenced an existing commissioner's order (20-20-002) and a legislative memo he had provided to members for further detail.

The presentation closed with the board agreeing to follow up on protocols for information-sharing and to schedule future meetings focused on TAP metrics and appointments.