Lewiston School Committee Recognizes Teacher Appreciation Week and Discusses Mental Health Funding

Controversial topics surrounding library content and parental authority took center stage at the Lewiston Public Schools School Committee meeting on May 5, 2025. A public speaker raised concerns about the presence of controversial materials, specifically questioning whether the school libraries contain copies of "Mon Camp" and Al Qaeda handbooks. The speaker emphasized the importance of balancing perspectives in educational resources and highlighted the critical role of parents in determining what their children are exposed to in schools.

The committee members responded positively to the acknowledgment of parental authority, with one member expressing gratitude for the written recognition that the school is not a substitute for parents in guiding their children's education.

In addition to the discussion on library content, the meeting included a unanimous vote to approve the deletion of certain policies, reflecting ongoing efforts to streamline regulations. The committee also celebrated National Teacher Appreciation Week, with both the chair and superintendent expressing gratitude for the hard work of educators and staff across the district.

However, the meeting also addressed a pressing issue: the EASE grant supporting mental health initiatives in schools is set to be paused at the end of the fiscal year. The superintendent noted that this could impact funding for school counselors and professional development, raising concerns about future mental health support for students.

As the meeting concluded, the committee looked ahead to the upcoming school budget referendum, emphasizing the importance of community involvement in shaping the future of Lewiston Public Schools.