Dear Neighbor,
My name is Elizabeth (Libby) Merrill, and I am running for the East Providence School Committee. I am a parent of a third grader in the East Providence School Department, and I grew up attending public schools in Rhode Island. For the past 20 years, I have worked in schools, including six years as an elementary and middle school teacher.
I am running for school committee because I believe that every child deserves access to an excellent public education.
I was fortunate to have a strong public school education that provided me with the academic foundation to succeed in college. After graduating, I joined a teaching program in Chicago, where I taught 4th and 5th grade. I earned my master's in education.
My husband, daughter, and I moved to East Providence in 2017. My daughter has attended East Providence Public Schools since the Tiny Townies Pre-K program. With my professional background, I have a deep appreciation for the fantastic experience we have had with the dedicated teachers and administrators who work here. Our school also has an amazing community of involved families and partners like the YMCA, the Boys and Girls Clubs and other non-profits.
My family and I consider ourselves incredibly lucky to have the East Providence School Department. Our daughter will get to attend a brand-new middle school and state-of-the-art high school. As a resident, I voted in favor of the bonds for those projects for all students.
As a member of the school committee, I will work to ensure that all students and families in East Providence feel included in the schools and receive a strong and supportive education. I will also work to ensure that our educators are supported, as strong teachers make strong schools.
Public education is one of the most impactful and valuable resources we have in any community. Our schools help us raise the leaders of the future, and strong schools make strong communities. I hope to earn your vote to represent you on the East Providence School Committee in the primary election on September 8th, 2026, and the general election on November 3rd, 2026.
I will be knocking on doors in our ward starting in the warmer weather and look forward to talking with you. Should you have any questions, ideas, or concerns, you may reach me at Merrill4ep@gmail.com. To learn more about my campaign, please visit Merrill4ep.com.
Sincerely,
Elizabeth (Libby) Merrill
Candidate for East Providence School Committee, Ward 3