Education advocacy organization backs a slate of candidates committed to
expanding educational opportunities for Rhode Island children.
PROVIDENCE, R.I. — Collective Action for Education (CAFE) announced its 2026 slate of endorsed candidates, supporting leaders who share the organization’s commitment to ensuring all Rhode Island children, especially those in historically marginalized communities, have access to high-quality public schools.
Stronger Schools Start With Us.
That belief is at the center of Collective Action for Education’s work to build community power and transform Rhode Island’s education system. It also guided the organization’s 2026 candidate review process, which included a candidate questionnaire and additional research into candidates’ backgrounds and policy priorities.
“We need elected leaders who believe parents deserve a real voice in helping meet their children’s individual needs and who are prepared to fight for high-quality schools,” said Victor Capellan, founder and CEO of Collective Action for Education. “Rhode Island’s kids deserve better, and we are proud to support candidates who are ready to work alongside families and communities to deliver meaningful change.”
Collective Action for Education has so far endorsed the following candidates:
Providence City Council: Jenny Mercado, Ward 6; Brian Guzman, Ward 11; Belen Florez, Ward 12; and Connor Blier, Ward 13.
Rhode Island House of Representatives: Santos Javier, District 9; Arlette Hidalgo, District 12; Naiommi Baret, District 14; and Cameron St. Germain, District 65.
These candidates demonstrate a commitment to elevating family voice in education and expanding access to high-quality public schools. Collective Action for Education looks forward to supporting these candidates in the fight to ensure Rhode Island students can access the quality education they deserve.
CAFE plans to continue to announce endorsements as the campaign season continues. Rhode Island’s statewide primary election will be held on Wednesday, September 9, 2026.
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About Collective Action for Education
Collective Action for Education is an organization dedicated to building community power to transform Rhode Island’s education system. Founded in 2024, the organization’s work includes raising awareness, mobilizing voters, advocating for strong education policies, and supporting leaders committed to ensuring that Rhode Island’s schools serve all children more effectively. Learn more at collectiveactionri.org.
