When we discuss Lowell Public Schools, too often the conversation is limited to parents with school-aged children, educators and administrators. Yet the quality of our public schools impacts every resident regardless of whether they have children in the system. With twenty-eight schools serving 14,075 students from pre-kindergarten through grade 12, our schools are one of Lowell’s largest and most essential institutions.
As both a parent and the President of the Greater Lowell Chamber of Commerce, I’ve witnessed firsthand how our schools serve as the foundation for our city’s future. The strength of our educational system directly correlates to property values, business growth and community safety.
Property values remain intrinsically linked to school performance. When families search for homes, school districts are typically among their top considerations. Strong public schools make neighborhoods more desirable, which protects and enhances property values for all homeowners in the area. Even if you don’t have children, your investment in your home benefits from quality public education.
For our business community, local schools are the pipeline for future employees, entrepreneurs and customers. The education our children receive today determines the workforce we’ll have tomorrow. Businesses looking to relocate or expand consider local education quality as a critical factor in their decision-making process. (And we are lucky to also have Middlesex Community College and UMass Lowell within our city limits!)
Public schools also serve as community hubs that foster civic engagement and cultural understanding. They host events, provide gathering spaces and create shared experiences that strengthen our social fabric. The relationships formed in our schools often extend beyond classroom walls and create lasting community bonds.
A strong education system is essential for fostering community safety. Studies indicate that neighborhoods with effective schools often experience lower crime rates, as students engaged in meaningful learning are less likely to engage in risky behavior. Through collaboration between our school resource officers, Lowell Police Youth Services and dedicated educators, we create safe and supportive environments that extend beyond the classroom and into the wider community.
In the FY2025 Annual Budget for the City of Lowell, the total single line appropriation support to Lowell Public Schools was over $257,000,000. This represents a significant investment in our community’s future. Efficient management of these resources benefits all taxpayers.
I believe that improving our public schools is a responsibility we all share. Our district provides not just standard education but also specialized programs including early childhood education, STEM education, arts and athletics, special education services and multilingual language learner classes to meet diverse student needs.
Whether you’re a senior citizen, a young professional without children, a business owner or a parent, the quality of Lowell Public Schools affects your daily life and long-term prosperity. By participating in school committee elections, attending school events and supporting educational initiatives, every resident can help shape the future of our city.
Our public schools belong to all of us, and their success determines Lowell’s success. That’s why every resident should care about and actively support Lowell Public Schools.
