PROVIDENCE, R.I. -- Two dozen business associations have signed a letter asking Governor Chafee and the state Board of Education to support state Education Commissioner Deborah A. Gist, whose contract expires June 7.
The May 7 letter is signed by such organizations as Greater Providence Chamber of Commerce, Associated Builders and Contractors of Rhode Island, Rhode Island Association of School Committees, Rhode Island Manufacturers Association, Rhode Island Small Business Economic Summit and many others.
The letter states that "we cannot afford to lose the admirable leadership of the Rhode Island Department of Education's Commissioner..."
Gist, the letter says, has a track record of developing "a rigorous, reliable and transparent education system." The signers say they are confident that she can "lead our state toward a brighter future, in which education and the economy can grow together."