Our children are learning more, at an earlier age, than children of previous generations.

In Lewiston’s public schools, we have a lot of which we can be proud.

In the last few years, we have focused on the needs of our physical plant with an annual maintenance program. Our superintendent has pursued funding through the state’s revolving loan fund and other means to attend to these needs. Lewiston Public Schools, at every level, have received many grants and assistance through the good efforts of so many.

We have enhanced and created new opportunities for our students to experience college courses, and we are a leader in the state on fitness and wellness as we confront the issues of nutrition and obesity.

We continue to address the needs of the school system for the education of all students in a diverse student body and community.

We have successfully obtained state funding for a new Farwell School and a new Pettingill School.

We have handled the taxpayers’ money wisely and carefully.

Through careful planning, partnerships and the work of our state legislative delegation we have been able to meet many of the needs of those who depend on us. Because of wise budgeting and state policies in the last four years, we have been able to return to the city council more than $1.5 million for tax relief. I expect that we will continue to do our part in that regard.

Our faculty, staff, volunteers, parent-teacher organizations and all employees in our school system contribute positively to a successful educational experience for our students in K-12, vocational and adult education.

I occasionally hear that children aren’t learning what they used to in schools. I strongly disagree. Our children are learning more, at an earlier age, than that of my parents’ generation and even that of mine. Those who make this assertion simply are not aware of the great things happening in our public schools today.

My son, who is in seventh grade at Lewiston Middle School, recently wrote a paper on the pros and cons of vaccinating against smallpox. The research and critical thinking that this assignment required was something I was never exposed to at such a young age.

Lewiston has students who are being recognized for their skills, talents and accomplishments at the local, state and even national level.

In the last two years, two Lewiston teachers have been recognized for their outstanding work in the classroom. Last year, Deanna Nadeau was recognized by the prestigious Milken Family Foundation. Donna Tardif has been selected as the 2006 Maine Teacher of the Year and will compete for the National Teacher of the Year title. The contribution of these teachers and every person who touches the lives of our students in Lewiston Public Schools is embodied in this statement by President John Kennedy:

“Education … is the mainspring of our economic and social progress. … It is the highest expression of achievement in our society, ennobling and enriching human life.”

As chairperson of the school committee, I continue to be committed to fair, open meetings that welcome an array of viewpoints. At the suggestion of a constituent, I initiated the publication of committee agendas and minutes on our Web site, making them readily available to our constituents. We are constantly investigating opportunities to save resources and provide greater access to the work we do. As chairperson during the last four years, I have been fortunate to work with school committee members with unique talents. Each has contributed greatly to the work we do on behalf of our students and families. The residents of Lewiston can be secure knowing that Lewiston Schools are in good hands with devoted individuals like you.

I look forward to the challenges ahead of us and working with the mayor and city council as we continue to build the best educational environment for our students. President Kennedy described education best when he said:

“Let us think of education as the means of developing our greatest abilities, because in each of us there is a private hope and dream which, fulfilled, can be translated into benefit for everyone and greater strength for our (nation)” community.

Jim Handy is the chairperson of the Lewiston School Committee and represents Ward 4.