Greater Nashua Chamber Of Commerce: LGN Class Of 26: Education & Workforce

Press release from Greater Nashua Chamber of Commerce:

We expected to learn a great deal and our tour exceeded expectations. What I didn’t personally expect is first seeing a portrait of my ancestor, Henry Dearborn, looking over to the visitor center. After entering the center, I next reconvened with my childhood soccer coach and family friend, Virginia Drew, for the first time in probably 20 years and learned that she will be the person touring us around for the morning. Viriginia also happens to be a 25+ year employee and Director of the Visitor Center and is amongst the most knowledgeable, personable and passionate tour guides I’ve ever encountered. One could easily tell how proud Viriginia was of the state she was born and raised in, much like myself and many members of the LGN class. The theme of getting in touch with one’s roots was a theme that was immediately present and prevalent throughout the day for myself and my colleagues.

We started our day by challenging our perceptions of lobbyism. We met with a few lobbyists in the morning; One, specializing in advocacy for hospitals. I was intrigued by the level of appreciation and admiration lobbyists receive from legislators, as they are thought of as experts of specific topics, rather than influencers acting in bad faith. This makes sense when considering how many hundreds of bills are presented to legislature each year. One can’t possibly know everything about every subject, so leaning into those who have knowledge and vested interest in the betterment of our communities in specific areas is very much valued.

We next stepped into the Historic Hall of Flags of the 1819 building to appreciate the historical significance of the building itself and the patriots who quite literally helped form the United States. Looking to either side of the main lobby, one can say blood-stained and bullet-hole ridden American flags proudly on display; Symbolizing the sacrifice our founders made throughout our history to provide freedom and liberty to us all. As we admired these relics, we learned that NH is home to not only the oldest legislative chambers in all of America, but also the third largest legislature in the English-Speaking world. NH boasts being the 9th state to ratify the constitution, effectively creating the United States. Our great state has also been an epicenter of women’s empowerment and accomplishment. It was once home to Anne Frazier Norton, the first woman to lose her life for war activities during WWI. NH is the first state in the world to have legislature with more women than men at a given time and the very first state to have 2 female senators of the opposite party working together. We were reminded as well how history is also in the making, as we passed by Kelly Ayotte swiftly making her way to an appointment. Ayotte was once New Hampshire’s first woman Attorney General and is now the second female Governor in the state’s history.

We next toured the Executive Council Chamber, which is home to a unique committee of 5 individuals who approve state spending and advise the governor on matters. It’s a system of checks and balances to ensure accountability and sound strategy in decision making.

We then walked to the Senate Chamber, where we were visited by both Senator Cindy Rosenwald and Kevin Avard. Not only did we hear about their origin story of politics, strategies around raising tax revenue and limiting spending, but what really resonated with me was the level of collaboration and admiration between legislative colleagues “across the aisle” from each other. At times, it seems inevitable to get caught up in the federal-level divisiveness of American politics, but local politics appears to be a lot more respectful, collaborative and seen as a civic duty vs. a means for achieving a career of fame and fortune. This was highlighted by the consistent reminders of how legislators are paid $100 per year and gas milage for their service as a tradeoff for doing extremely impactful work. I was surprised to learn that an estimated 90% of all decisions made are unanimously accepted or rejected. Sure, they may involve some “minor” items that call for little debate, but hearing that was a breath of fresh air and a stark contrast to what a lot of us may expect. For me, learning this inspired optimism for continuous productivity and cohesion.

Next stop was the House of Representatives; By far the largest of all rooms visited, housing 400 representatives. We sat down in the “new” chairs of the building, installed in the 1950’s and were also impressed by the electronic voting system still in place from the 1970’s. Looking up, one could admire the portraits of George Washington, Franklin Pierce, Daniel Webster, Abraham Lincoln and John Parker Hale. We learned more of New Hampshire’s historical significance, having the youngest legislator in the country (elected at 18 years old) in addition to 2 of the oldest (both currently 97 years old). We got a visit from Nashua’s very own Representative Laura Telersky. She shared some current bills being presented for discussion, apparently ranging from ferrets assisting hunts for NH Fish and Game employees, carrying a loaded firearm riding a snowmobile, the cell phone use in schools mandate, flag display mandates and everything in between. We then heard from Representative Dale Swanson- Another one of the 27 representatives from Nashua, who explained the differences in the kinds of votes made in the house and scenarios for their appropriate use.

We lastly, very quietly and very discretely re-visited the Executive Council Chamber, where Ayotte and others were congregating to discuss important matters. This was quite a quick stop for us, as we wished to respectfully avoid impeding on Ayotte’s meeting. Virginia then shared that perhaps our reception in the room would’ve looked differently if we were a visiting 4th grade class, as Ayotte and previous governors have been known to stop meetings to welcome and acknowledge the class to drive engagement and inclusion. All the same, it was appreciated to see some legislative work in action.

Having been born and raised here myself, I don’t think I’m alone in saying that New Hampshire often feels like a very well-kept secret. Perhaps many like it that way when it comes to vacation destinations, residences, quality fishing spots or the like; But much is to be admired and celebrated about how our government has and continues to pioneer making our communities a better place to work and live. Do yourself a favor and check out the state house if you haven’t already- You will not be disappointed. And if you’re anything like me, you may get a vastly different perspective from when you visited as an 8 year old on a class field trip. And perhaps you will get re-connected with your roots or discover some new ones along the way.

Written By: David Dearborn

St. Mary’s Bank

This portion was especially intriguing to me, I must admit. I come from a family of educators and I especially appreciate the kind of people our educators are. They listen, they care, they solve problems. That is common through lots of careers however, education is different, it is imperative these people continue to push the envelope and expand on how, where, when and what may be the best motive and strategy. Every single person we heard from, is that person, and that motivator.

Our afternoon session began with a panel discussion consisting of our five Nashua School district professionals. Presented with an excellent selection of questions and discussions they had support and encouragement behind everything they said. When Dr Mario Andrade was presented with the simple question of ‘what are your best, favorite moments’, He responded as you would expect, he loves and appreciates the moments where his school communities, along with local communities unite, grow and progress. Several examples, maybe some more special than others, but it is the activism, the community and the teamwork that grows within a school that is incredible. Agreed DR. A question presented to Robert Ciappa, Director English was what may be needed to expand and develop the growing ELL program in Nashua. This only seems fitting if we grow a program that is ever growing and helps to build inclusive communities. His start to the answer was as you would think, we need more staff, which is true, but he also spoke about the training portion which i believe is the key here. He wants to build an atmosphere where staff are committed to the best interest of the student and the greater good, rather than compliance to a hypothetical plan. Teaching and learning you need to adjust, adapt and care.

Our visit to NCC was my first. It was a true enjoyment being able to simply listen to Dr James Keane, his view of the school, the direction and purpose for it and how it intends to mold its courses to what truly suits the community and its students needs. Ncc offers a broad range of programs, including certificated and industry leading credits and systems, that should only continue to improve! NCC also makes an offering to local high school students that would like to enroll in their dual enrollment system, where they are earning both high school and college credits, before graduating high school! We were able to meet some students at Nashua south enrolled in these programs taking advantage of this opportunity. Smart kids.

At the close of our speakers and once the dust settled, I think the entire conglomerate was amazed, from every angle, every industry. There was something for everybody. Students can get exposure on a massive level.

Thank you to our educators.

Written By: Kolten Slater

P&L landscaping

This press release was produced by Greater Nashua Chamber of Commerce. The views expressed here are the author’s own.