Selectman and former committee member Mike Smith described Edgecomb Eddy School as a central part of the community’s future. Smith addressed the Edgecomb School Committee meeting March 1, soliciting suggestions for the town’s fledgling Economic Development Committee.

Smith has been leading economic development workshops with nearly a dozen other citizens looking to expand the town’s tax base. He described the local school’s reputation as a major reason why many successful people move here.

“You guys play a huge role in that,” Smith said. “When I first got on the board, it had people like Troy Hersom, and Steve Lord as members. All successful people who moved here because of the school.”

Smith reported the committee wants to promote Edgecomb as a fine place to live and work. He believes the school serves as a major enticement for family and small businesses relocating to Edgecomb. He requested the school committee provide ideas for promoting future economic growth.

“I just wanted to let you know you all deserve a ‘pat on the back’ and make our job that much easier,” Smith said. “I wanted to update you on our progress and request your feedback.”

In other action, school officials are considering adding more recitation exercises to the curriculum. The sixth grade social studies class recently recited famous poems and historical writings during an assembly. 

Principal Lisa Clarke described the skill as a “lost art.” And the lower grades would also start incorporating recitation into their curriculum.

School committee member Tom Abello agreed that incorporating more public speaking exercises would benefit young students.

“In most public polls, the No. 1 fear is public speaking. I think it’s great we start them at a young age speaking in front of a crowd. It will only help them as they get older,” he said.

The committee concluded the meeting in an executive session. The members discussed contract negotiations for the upcoming 2016-17 budget. The committee took no action afterward.