Friday, October 30, 2009

Sunday declared ‘Dr. Jim Lewis Day’

County and cities pay tribute to former school superintendent

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By TERRY SMITH
Express Staff Writer

Former school district Superintendent Jim Lewis has been honored by the Blaine County Commissioners and the cities of Bellevue, Hailey and Ketchum through a joint proclamation declaring Sunday, Nov. 1, as "Dr. Jim Lewis Day."

The proclamation cites Lewis' 39 years of public service and his 13 years as superintendent or assistant superintendent of the Blaine County School District.

Lewis, 62, who became superintendent in 1999, announced his retirement in June, but stayed on through the summer as transition coordinator to help pass the reins of authority to new Superintendent Lonnie Barber.

Calling Lewis a "tireless advocate for Idaho's children," the proclamation states that he "improved the lives of our students and the life of our community" and that he "leaves a legacy of educational excellence that reflects the high expectations of our community."

Lewis is past president of the Idaho State Superintendents Association and was named "superintendent of the year" in 2004.

Some 200 friends of Lewis bade him farewell at a "going fishing" retirement party on Sept. 26 at Wood River High School. He was described then as a "visionary" and as an inspirational leader who leads by example.

Terry Smith: tsmith@mtexpress.com