PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WPRI) — Providence Mayor Brett Smiley has made his selections for the five mayor-appointed School Board seats. His nominees are Melissa Hughes for Region 1, Anjel Newmann for Region 2, Jenny Mercado for Region 3, Night Jean Muhingabo for Region 4 and Steven Williamson for Region 5. Muhingabo, Newmann and Hughes were part of the previously all-appointed board. Previously, all members of the board were picked by the mayor, but now it's half-elected after a 2022 city charter change approved by voters. The first election for the other five seats, which are split up by region, took place in November. Those winners were Corey Jones in Region 1, Michelle Fontes in Region 2, Heidi Silverio in Region 3, Mireya Mendoza in Region 4 and Ty'Relle Stephens in Region 5. As part of the charter change, the mayor was also not allowed to select more than one appointed member from the same region. READ MORE: Here’s the map for Providence’s new school board elections Before Smiley made the announcement, those interested in being considered for an appointed seat were able to apply online. A public forum was held in December. The appointed members will also play a role in the races for School Board president and vice president. The board's leadership positions are open after former President Erlin Rogel and Vice President Travis Escobar didn't run for an elected seat or apply for an appointed one. Silverio told 12 News that she is "looking to run" for the position of School Board president. "I've had such wonderful conversations with community leaders and students over the past couple of months and their energy is honestly inspiring," she said. "I believe my experience serving on previous boards and my leadership in facilitating difficult conversations and bring all voices to the table have prepared me to take on this important role." Another member seeking the role is Stephens. "As a graduate of Providence Public Schools and lifelong resident of the city, I am excited to be considered for school board president," Stephens said. "This role is an opportunity to strengthen our shared commitment to providing all students access to an excellent education, regardless of their race, gender or ZIP code." BACKGROUND: Smiley’s legislative priorities include tax hike, ending school takeover, new parking tax The new leadership will be in those positions as Smiley hopes to have the city regain control of the public school district by July. He plans to achieve this goal through legislation by the General Assembly. The state takeover of the schools, which started in 2019, was extended for three more years by a state panel in August. All five of Smiley's picks are subject to approval by the City Council before starting their terms. A full council vote is expected to be held on Feb. 6 after the appointees are referred to Committee on Finance for vetting. The newly appointed members will serve staggered terms. These terms consist of one member serving until 2026, two until 2027 and two until 2028. Any terms for members selected by the mayor afterward will be three years. NEXT: How to watch Gov. McKee’s State of the State address on Tuesday Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now Daily Roundup SIGN UP NOW