Portsmouth School Committee John Wojichowski says he won’t seek reelection in November.

To the editor:

I want to announce to the citizens of Portsmouth that I plan to leave public service when my term ends this November and therefore will not seek reelection to the school committee. 

It has been an honor and privilege to have served since December of 2012, and I thank the voters for giving me this opportunity. I have been blessed to have served with six committee colleagues who recognize how important public education is to our community and to our nation. 

In an era where political parties tend to divide us rather bring people together to solve problems, I can say unequivocally that we come to every meeting with the single goal of making our school system the best it can be. Given the many talented people in this community, it is my hope that voters will have quality candidates to choose from in November. 

Like it or not, Rhode Island law gives the school committee important powers and responsibilities. Consequently, the school board plays a vital role in the functioning of our school system. Clearly, what goes on in the classroom is far more important than what goes on in the boardroom, but with that said, it is vital to have people on the committee who make student safety and academics the highest priorities.

Between now and November, I look forward to working with my colleagues on the committee and our school district’s leadership team in developing the 2019 fiscal year budget as well as our next five-year capital improvement plan.

John Wojichowski

8 Eyler Drive

Portsmouth