EAST PROVIDENCE — Presented with a bouquet of flowers and showered with some flowery prose, the retiring Kim Mercer, as superintendent, sat in on her final session of the East Providence School Committee during the body’s Tuesday, Nov. 24.
Mrs. Mercer takes her leave from the position after just over 30 months on the job. She will be replaced by Kathryn Crowley, hired by the Committee at a special session held on November 16.
Ward 4 Committee member Jessica Beauchaine read from a prepared statement, recognizing Mrs. Mercer’s tenure in East Providence, which began in March of 2013 when she was hired by the state-appointed Budget Commission.
“I feel like you rescued a school district that needed to be rescued,” Mrs. Beauchaine said, adding “We’re able to move forward thanks to everything you’ve done.”
Mrs. Beachaine’s remarks referenced Mrs. Mercer’s 28-plus year career in education, starting in the classroom as a Special Education teacher. She later moved into administration, raising to the rank of deputy superintendent in Pawtucket before coming to East Providence.
“When you arrived this district was in need of vision and leadership, and you’ve been an integral part of our growth and prosperity,” Mrs. Beauchaine added.
Struck with a case of laryngitis, Mrs. Mercer’s thoughts for the evening were read by administrative assistant Pat Iannelli.
Mrs. Mercer thanked the teachers, students, parents and employees of the district as well as administrators, politicians, police and fire department staff.
She wrote she “will leave East Providence with special memories” before “wishing the best to all” in concluding her remarks.
School Committee Chairman Charlie Tsonos announced an open house reception for those wishing to meet with Mrs. Mercer one final time will take place Wednesday, Dec. 2, in the City Hall Chamber from 2:30 to 5 p.m.
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