Congratulations to the graduates by Rep. Mark Bryant

This is one of the most exciting times of the year. High school and college seniors have or are preparing to graduate and start the next chapter of their lives; and our students look forward to a much needed and well deserved summer break.

I want to congratulate Windham High School seniors on their graduation. This marks a major milestone in your life and you, and your family, should be very proud of this achievement. As you look ahead to the future, always remember the hard work and dedication that led you to this point and let it be your guide going forward.

Education is something often taken for granted. It is through education, however, that we grow as individuals. Since learning is a lifelong pursuit, and not something that ends with a degree, I urge you to continue learning whether you pursue a career now or continue on with your education.

Summer reading programs are a great way to stay engaged this summer. Windham affords many opportunities to students and adults alike if they wish to continue expanding their horizons this summer. 

Windham Public Library offers summer reading programs for children, teens and adults. You can sign up at the library and the program runs from June 19 to August 28. Each program offers reading suggestions and activities for that particular age group.

During that time, you can play Summer Reading Bingo; you have to complete the tasks on each square. At the end of the summer, if you complete bingo, you can then be entered to win a variety of prizes. For more information, visit www.windham.lib.me.us/summer-reading-programs. 

The library also has weekly story time for preschool students on Mondays at 10:30 a.m. and for babies on Tuesdays at 10:15 a.m. Parents are encouraged to attend with their children and help them join in on the songs and crafts.  

Our area also has a great Adult Education Program. Windham/Raymond Adult Education offers year-round courses and programs for residents to enjoy. There are opportunities for business and health care training, as well as cooking and arts and crafts classes. To sign up, go to windham.coursestorm.com/. 

The Maine Department of Education also offers a summer reading challenge. You can participate in the Read to Ride Summer Reading Challenge; if you read for 500 minutes this summer you are entered into a drawing to win one of 48 bicycles donated to the department. Learn more at www.maine.gov/doe/literacy-for-me/read-to-ride.html.

Maine also offers a variety of summer camps for our students to enjoy. From music camp to 4-H camp, and day camps to week-long stays, there is something everyone. Visit mainecamps.org for a list of Maine summer camps.

Windham Parks and Recreation offers day camp opportunities for kids of all ages. They also have family-open gym, basketball leagues and weekly music classes for children ages 2-5. Learn more about all their programs at windhamrecreation.com. 

Congratulations again to all our students and graduates. Never forget that as you look ahead to the future, the only limits on how far you advance are the limits you place upon yourself.

I hope you have a safe and enjoyable summer. As always, please feel free to send me a letter at 166 Albion Road in Windham, call me at 892-6591 or email anytime at mark.bryant@legislature.maine.gov.

Rep. Mark Bryant is serving his sixth non-consecutive term in the Maine House and represents part of Windham. He serves on the Committee on State and Local Government and the Committee on Transportation.