Finally, after three years of struggling with the requirements of the school consolidation law, the newly formed RSU 78 (Rangeley Lakes Regional School District) can apply its attention to the really important stuff: where we want to see our school heading in the next five years and beyond.

The district school board, via its Advisory Committee on Effective Schools, will host an open community meeting on Jan. 12 from 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. in the multi-purpose room at RLRS which will provide an opportunity for everyone to voice their opinions and concerns, wishes and suggestions in an open, brainstorming-style forum.

In order for members of the school board to do our jobs as representatives of the community, we need input from community members of all ages — parents, students and alumni, as well as staff and teachers — anyone with ideas or opinions about the school.

Local school boards still exist because it is believed that communities should have the right to tailor the educational experience of their children. I am hoping that community members will grasp the responsibility to exercise those rights.

Together, we can make democracy work.

Pam Ellis, Rangeley

Member, RLRS District School Board