Narragansett Election Profile: Alicia Vignali Henry

NARRAGANSETT, RI — Alicia Vignali Henry is running for a seat on the Narragansett School Committee. The 38-year-old Democrat is a newcomer to elected office.

Vignali lives with her husband and two daughters, aged 4 and 2. She holds a bachelor's degree in General Studies and Political Science from the University of Connecticut and has worked as a beach manager at Roger Wheeler State Beach for five seasons.

Occupation

Before relocating to Rhode Island I was employed within the Waterbury Public Schools Department in Waterbury, Connecticut. As the Recruitment and Student Placement Coordinator for the Public Pre-K program I supported thousands of families through the Pre-K enrollment process. I also worked within the schools as a permanent substitute and in the In-House Suspension program. I worked with the WorldTeach Organization, as a volunteer professor for 1 year at Universidad de Machala in Southern Ecuador and then 3 years as Field Director in Guyana. In my role as Field Director I partnered with the Ministry of Education to recruit and place volunteer teachers in public Secondary Schools. I was responsible for all fiscal management, travel, training, and in country safety operations. I coordinated efforts with the National Literacy Unit to develop and implement National Literacy Curriculum, Testing and Resources. I spent 8 years as the Program Director of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Waterbury, where I was responsible for program development and daily operations of the facility.

Why are you seeking elective office?

I have two daughters who are beginning their journey in the Narragansett School System. Having worked in various capacities of education I understand how important parent involvement and representation are within the school and local communities. My family isn't originally from Narragansett, however, don't have "to be" from somewhere to make an impact on the community you are residing in. Having a different perspective, with new ideas, is helpful and beneficial to all members of the community. I want to be approachable, listen and learn from families, so I can represent their interests.

What do you believe should be done to contain the coronavirus pandemic, and what would you do to lessen its economic impacts?

As a nation we need to trust one and other and trust those that are making decisions that help contain COVID-19. Medicine, science and humanity will provide the answers to move us through this pandemic. Addressing social issues that have been highlighted because of COVID-19, for example, healthcare, access to affordable childcare, wage stagnation, affordable housing etc, should help frame the way we move forward. Supporting families and changing our mindset to a community based approach, for all families, will be imperative in rebuilding economies.

Do you believe systemic racism is a problem in America generally and Rhode Island specifically, and if so, what would you do to combat it?

Absolutely, and I believe now is the time for real listening, discussion and change to take place. My family is bi-racial, multi- cultural and made up of immigrants from many continents. My daughters will be 2 of the 4% of students who identify as 2 or more races. The Narragansett community and Narragansett School System has the opportunity to be a true catalyst of change in developing high quality Multicultural and Social Justice Education. We can make sure our students are taught about social and civic action; and are comfortable engaging in multicultural literacy. This will allow our students be able to respond to issues of racism, prejudice and discrimination in general. Multicultural education goes well beyond race and as a school system we can make sure we are allowing opportunity for representation of various cultural groups throughout the curriculum.

Should the words "Providence Plantations" be removed from the state's name?

Yes

What are the critical differences between you and the other candidates seeking this post?

I have 2 daughters that will be in the Narragansett School System, therefore I have a vested interest in making sure the School Committee makes decisions based on the the best interest of them, their teachers and classmates. I have years of experience in education based professions, both domestically and internationally. I have the ability to form genuine and reciprocal relationships with persons from diverse backgrounds and as a new family to Rhode Island I can bring a unique perspective to table.

If you are a challenger, in what way has the current board or officeholder failed the community (or district or constituency)

I believe the School Committee has done a good job, and we can always do better. There is room for new perspectives, ideas and input. We will need to listen extensively to the community in the coming months to navigate the re-opening and maintenance of schools. We will have to get creative to make sure the needs of all families are being met and each unique situation is being considered.

What accomplishments in your past would you cite as evidence you can handle this job?

See Occupation :)

The best advice ever shared with me was:

"The Journey will change you, so go for it" — This can be applied to almost every aspect of my life.

What else would you like voters to know about yourself and your positions?

We are excited to be part of the Narragansett community. We are what the community keeps requesting, year round families who want to send their kids to the excellent schools, who will enjoy their wonderful beaches and just be great neighbors. I want to show there is opportunity for families like mine to be engaged in discussions and decisions that will affect them.