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Oliveira opts against second run for E.P. School Committee seat

Retired teacher cites numerous factors in her decision not to seek re-election

By Mike Rego
Posted 6/19/20

EAST PROVIDENCE — First-term incumbent Karen Oliveira will not seek a second go-round as the School Committee member from Ward 3. Mrs. Oliveira acknowledged her decision in an email reply to a …

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Oliveira opts against second run for E.P. School Committee seat

Retired teacher cites numerous factors in her decision not to seek re-election

Posted

EAST PROVIDENCE — First-term incumbent Karen Oliveira will not seek a second go-round as the School Committee member from Ward 3. Mrs. Oliveira acknowledged her decision in an email reply to a question posed Friday, June 19.

“I am not running again,” said Mrs. Oliveira, who claimed the seat unopposed at the November 2018 election. She ran for the Ward 3 spot in the stead of Nate Cahoon, who ran for and won the corresponding seat on the City Council that year.

“Serving on the School Committee was a rewarding experience. I certainly learned a lot,” Mrs. Oliveira continued. “I was a teacher in the district for 33 years. I served on many committees in that capacity, but I got to see and experience the many challenges from a different perspective.”

The Ward 3 race has already been engaged. Attorney Jenni Azanero announced her intention to seek the office in a press release issued Wednesday evening, June 17.

Ms. Azanero will be running for a four-year term as the School Committee abides by a change in service time approved by voters several years ago, though only implemented in time for the 2018 election. At that time, the committee opted to hold its races under the previous guideline of two-year terms. Now, those elected this November will serve through 2024.

Mrs. Oliveira cited a number of factors in making her decision to not seek re-election.

“While I would like to continue serving on the School Committee, I have new family responsibilities and obligations that need my attention,” she explained. “I would not be able to commit the time and attention that the seat deserves.

Mrs. Oliveira continued, “We have a young, smart, eager candidate (Ms. Azanero) ready to take on the challenge. I gladly give her my support and encouragement.”

Though no longer a member of the committee, Mrs. Oliveira said she will continue to be engaged in school-related matters.

“I intend to stay informed and active in the efforts to make our school district a model system in Rhode Island. We have made great strides in that direction and with the continued support of our Mayor, City Council, and community members we will meet that goal,” she concluded. “Our kids are second to none and deserve nothing less. These are very difficult times. We need to work together to ensure we are doing the best we can for our kids, families, and taxpayers.”

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