With the passing of Rep. Paul Crowley, Rhode Island has lost a true champion of public educa­tion. During his 27 years in the General Assembly, Rep. Crow­ley made quality public educa­tion his priority, leading numer­ous education initiatives designed to improve teaching and learning.

Rep. Crowley was a legislator whom his constituents and all Rhode Islanders could be proud of. He was dedicated, honest and passionate about education reform.

Most importantly, he was fair and committed to providing all Rhode Island students with the very best education possible, fair to their parents, fair to edu­cators, fair to school commit­tees and fair to the taxpayers who pay the bill.

In the weeks and months ahead, many will be searching for ways to honor the memory of Rep. Crowley. I can think of no better way to continue his legacy than asking all in the education community to recom­mit themselves to his goals and embody the spirit of Paul Crow­ley in all that we do.

Stephen A. Nardelli,
executive director,
Rhode Island League of Charter Schools,
Providence