Newport Election Profile: Stephanie Winslow

NEWPORT, RI — Stephanie Winslow is running for a seat on the Newport School Committee. The 39-year-old was appointed to the committee in March following the departure of Kathleen Silvia in January.

Winslow is a Newport native who holds a bachelor's degree in history from Boston University and a certificate in computer programming from the Community College of Rhode Island. She has worked as a database developer and data analyst for the past seven years.

Campaign website: stephaniefornewport.com

Why are you seeking elective office?

I want to play an active role in finding solutions and making positive changes in the very challenging world of public education. Complaining from the sidelines won't make a difference.

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

We need to get people back to work and back to school, which is why Newport needs to vote Yes on our school construction bond this November. This is a once in a lifetime opportunity to invest in our city at record low interest rates. This bond will rebuild our decrepit high school and add classrooms at our overcrowded elementary school at 52.5 percent reimbursement from the State of Rhode Island. Newport has waited long enough. It's time to build our future!

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?

Systemic racism is 100 percent real! No American community is free from the inequity that racist policies have created in public education, housing, healthcare, and the economy. Those in power cannot remain silent any longer. As education experts, schools are uniquely positioned to help enable change. Teaching kids is just part of the solution. A strong commitment to teaching adults and all members of our community how to be actively anti-racist will be the difference.

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 believe in the true mission of a school committee as the custodian of policy and budget. It is our job to support our schools with clear goals and direction. The Superintendent, administration, teachers, parents, and — most importantly — our students, need our advocacy.

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

Newport is a very diverse community with many needs. Let's gather all hands on deck to make our school system the best it can be!

Describe the other issues that define your campaign platform

Communication and community engagement are crucial to successful schools. I want to grow both of these ideas as Newport grapples with over-tourism, a declining population, skyrocketing real estate prices, and inequity. We can keep our city a livable community if we provide residents with more opportunities to learn, live, and work here.

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

In my role as an SQL developer, I am a data professional. This is a highly sought after skill in today's economy and should be a bonus to our school committee work where data driven strategies are essential.

The best advice ever shared with me was:

Under promise and over deliver.

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

I'm very new to this role which means I won't be able to simply fall back on past experience and assumptions. This will be my advantage! I know I will have to work extremely hard, do my homework, ask questions, and consider all sides. I'm a team player and will work willingly alongside the more senior school committee members and school administrators to come to consensus and move our schools forward.