Forum held to address school closures

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WPRI) - Parents concerned about the proposed closure of four Providence public schools got the chance Tuesday night to let their voices be heard.

The first of several planned community meetings was held from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the Juanita Sanchez Complex.

• See a list of other school forums

Providence Mayor Angel Taveras and Superintendent Tom Brady last week announced they are recommending the closure Flynn Elementary, Windmill St. Elementary, Asa Messer School and Asa Messer Annex. In addition, several other schools will be re-purposed as part of a major budget overhaul.

The final decision will be up to the Providence School Board. However, the panel can vote, it must first hold a series of public hearings.

The school district is trying to close a more than $40 million budget gap.