Ahmed Sheikh is running for for Lewiston School Committee in Ward 1.

LEWISTON — Ahmed Sheikh is seeking election to the Lewiston School Committee, serving Ward 1.

The seat is held by Linda Scott, who is not seeking re-election.

According to a written statement released by Sheikh, his decision came “from several years of continued exposure and interaction with Lewiston schools through various avenues.”

Sheikh moved to Maine in 2004 and has been heavily involved in the school system.

“From elementary school to college, Lewiston has taught me much about the importance of active engagement in matters that deal with the school system,” he said.

Sheikh graduated from Bates College in May and is a behavioral health professional with Bright Future Healthier You, working with students of varying backgrounds and ages.

“My work with students goes as far back as a volunteer at the Lewiston Public Library as a homework help tutor and with the Lewiston Adult Ed as a volunteer in my spare time,” he said. “Since then, I have been involved in various community-engaged work, ranging from mentoring youth in school to assisting elderly folk with daily support to promoting active engagement in school through my previous position at Bates as a Community Outreach Fellow.”

According to his statement, Sheikh’s decision to run for the School Committee demonstrates his commitment to the students and teachers of the Lewiston public school system.

“I aim to be a voice for change in the community and to advocate for the voices unheard,” he said.

“As an immigrant to this community, I understand full well the importance of recognition coupled with supportive advocates,” he said. “I believe I can become that voice and present to the wider Lewiston-Auburn community an example of growth, support and empowerment.”

Sheikh is new to politics but said he feels there is a “great need for advocates to step up and speak out for the future of our students.”

Comments are not available on this story.