Ward 6 Lewiston School Committee representative Meghan Hird. submitted photo
LEWISTON — Ward 6 School Committee incumbent Meghan Hird is running for reelection. The Yoga instructor and stay-at-home mother hopes to serve a second term on the committee.
Community engagement: Ward 6 School Committee representative, Parent Teacher Organization president, Cal Ripken Baseball volunteer
How would you manage the school budget? Allocate more funds to schools or pull back spending? Why?
To invest as much as possible in our students and teachers, it is essential that we evaluate the school budget and identify areas where excessive spending can be reduced. For example, the facilities department, specifically the lack of bidding out janitorial supplies, is one area where cuts can be made. By implementing regular bidding processes, the school district can ensure cost effective measures that result in significant savings. These savings can then be redirected toward improving educational resources and supporting our teachers in their vital role as educators of future Lewiston residents.
Do you believe student safety is a priority and would you support initiatives that address safety issues?
Student safety should be a non-negotiable, top priority for any education institution. While Lewiston Public Schools has taken significant steps toward ensuring physical safety through policies addressing emergencies, it is equally important that we tackle bullying among students — both online and within the school. By implementing comprehensive anti-bullying policies, enforcing those policies and fostering more collaboration with parents, Lewiston Public Schools can create a safe learning environment, in which all students feel safe, valued and protected. Additionally, we must ensure, without exception, that all volunteers and third-party partners working with or near our children are carefully vetted.
Do you believe students’ social and emotional needs are being met in schools? What could be done differently?
While meeting the social and emotional needs of students is crucial, it is equally important to teach them accountability for their actions. Striking a balance between these two needs and education creates a supportive environment that nurtures students’ emotional well-being while also fostering a sense of responsibility. By integrating social and emotional learning into disciplinary practices, educators can equip students with the necessary skills to navigate their emotions and take ownership of their actions. This balanced approach not only contributes to students’ personal growth but also prepares them for success in various aspects of life.
Do you believe parents and community members have adequate access to committee members at meetings or through other methods to express concerns and frustrations?
Parents and community members’ ability to reach out to community leaders is vital in fostering a strong and cohesive society. Through various channels such as emails, phone calls, texts and social media messages, I strive to maintain an approachable image, ensuring that the citizens of my ward know that I am here to listen to and address their concerns. By actively engaging in open dialogue, I have witnessed firsthand the positive impact it has on our community. As we continue to embrace the power of accessible communication, we strengthen the bonds between community leaders and their constituents.
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