To the editor:

The new school year is upon us. As a member of the Portsmouth School Committee, I greet this coming year with great anticipation of achievement. 

The new principals at our high school, Mr. Amaral, and middle school, Mr. Arruda, are highly regarded in our community. They have the ability to bring fresh approaches while working within the framework of the system implemented by Superintendent Mrs. Riley. 

Our two elementary school principals, Mrs. Little at Hathaway and Mrs. Viveiros at Melville, have proven track records of engaging each and every child to create a learning experience that is exciting and rewarding. 

The team of leaders assembled now gives the superintendent the ability to implement procedures that will have buy in from the system’s motivated teachers. I anticipate great results. We are blessed to have such a highly seasoned leadership group. We have the capacity to offer new concepts in a multitude of areas that will be unique to Rhode Island.

The school committee wants every opportunity that can be afforded to each and every student to achieve his or her educational desires. There are new programs that are being considered that will be a tremendous addition to our existing system. A goal of our school committee is to be one of the top five school systems in New England and recognized as such by all higher learning institutions. We have the foundation in place to have great achievement. 

I am asking the students and their support systems out of school to realize the opportunity at hand. It is time to look within ourselves and expend efforts that will be beneficial for a lifetime. If we all work together we can achieve great results. I am so excited and proud to be a small part in our system’s growth and the tremendous opportunities that have been created.

Allen Shers

Portsmouth School Committee

40 Roger Williams Court