Leadership

Gail DeCecco
Principal

Gail DeCecco was appointed Principal of Central High School in August 2024. She has been working in education for 15 years, the majority with the Providence Public School District (PPSD). 

From 2008-2019, she served as an ELA teacher, department leader, instructional coach, and administrator in PPSD. Ms. DeCecco served as a school administrator in Massachusetts from 2019-2023. Most recently, she served as an Assistant Principal at Hope High School. Prior to working in schools, she worked in human services for 15 years. During that time, she supported youth and adults with disabilities across many settings, including group homes, shelters, hospitals, and day programs. In addition, for several years, she and her husband served as foster parents for youth with disabilities.

Gail earned her Bachelor's degree in Secondary Education, English and her Master's in Educational Leadership from Rhode Island College in Providence, Rhode Island.

With a strong background in overseeing Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS) for students, coordinating assessments, and leading initiatives like Understanding by Design curriculum mapping and Proficiency-Based Graduation Requirements, Ms. DeCecco is well-equipped to enhance our school community. Her commitment to fostering inclusive educational environments and her expertise in data analysis, school law, and instructional leadership will be invaluable as we continue to strive for excellence

All of Ms. DeCecco's experiences have contributed to her personalized approach to education. Above all, she believes that serving in the field of education is a privilege, and she feels honored to be entrusted with the role of Principal.

Bianca Bevilacqua
Assistant Principal

Bianca Bevilacqua joined Central High School as Assistant Principal in August 2024. She is a dynamic educator and community leader deeply rooted in Providence. Born and raised in this vibrant city, Bianca’s journey through education and leadership has been marked by a profound commitment to community and equity. 

Bianca’s academic path began within the Providence school system as well as local non profit Everett where she was given the opportunity to develop her art while also giving back to the community as a teacher and program director for younger students. Her passion for the arts and storytelling led her to Emerson College, where she earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Film Production and received the Women in Film Award for her thesis film.This experience honed her skills in creative expression and project management, laying a strong foundation for her future endeavors.

Determined to make a lasting impact in the field of education, Bianca pursued a Master’s degree in Urban Education from Providence College and taught 8th grade math for some time before teaching CTE film production for the rest of her teaching career. 

To enhance her leadership capabilities, Bianca completed the Center for Leadership and Equity Education's Principal Residency Program at Hope High School and served as an interim Assistant Principal at Esek Hopkins Middle School.

Bianca’s journey reflects a deep-rooted passion for education and a steadfast dedication to her community, and she looks forward to making a significant impact at Central High School where she is committed to fostering an environment of growth, inclusivity, and excellence.

Renee Walker
Assistant Principal

Renee Walker is an Assistant Principal at Central High School. She has spent her entire educational career working in the Providence Public School District (PPSD). Of the 31 years she's worked in education, she has spent 14 years as an Assistant Principal. She was named 2022 Assistant Principal of the Year by the Rhode Island Association of School Principals (RIASP).

Renee earned her Bachelor's degree in Social Sciences and Elementary/Middle Education from Rhode Island College in Providence, Rhode Island. She received her Master's in Education Administration from the University of Rhode Island in Kingston, Rhode Island.

Renee loves being the Assistant Principal at Central High School, and she loves all of her students.

Michelle Portilla
Assistant Principal

Michelle Portilla is a community-centered school leader with over 15 years of experience in education. She has served as a teacher, instructional coach, advisor, and Dean of Academics and Culture, always working to ensure that every student feels a sense of belonging, support, and opportunity. She is passionate about preparing students for success beyond high school through hands-on, experiential learning and project-based learning (PBL) that connects classroom knowledge to real-world application. A proud first-generation college graduate, Michelle was born and raised in New York City and is a product of NYC public schools.

Michelle holds a Bachelor’s degree in History from Wheaton College (MA) and an MAT in Secondary Education History from Brown University.

Her work focuses on removing barriers for historically marginalized students, particularly multilingual learners and students with IEPs. She has led initiatives in restorative justice, work-based learning, experiential learning, project-based learning, and culturally responsive instruction, and is known for building strong partnerships with families and the community. Michelle believes that lasting change happens when students are seen, heard, and valued both inside and outside the classroom.

Jason Rasko
Assistant Principal