LEWISTON — A longtime educator is running for the at-large seat on the School Committee now held by Chairwoman Megan Parks.

Jason Lavoie announced his candidacy Wednesday.

“I’m running to keep students safe during COVID-19 and support our wonderful school staff,” he said in a news release.

He said he disagrees with Parks’ anti-mask stance and her votes against higher pay for educators.

“The only way to keep our students safe and in school is to follow the CDC’s recommendations,” Lavoie said.

A graduate of the University of Southern Maine, Lavoie works as an educational technician with students with autism at Walton Elementary School in Auburn.

Previously, he worked at Lewiston Middle School and Connors Elementary School in Lewiston.

“My experience working in Lewiston schools gives me a unique perspective on education,” Lavoie said. “Unlike most School Committee members, I am directly familiar with the challenges our students and teachers face on a daily basis.”

He said naysayers told him his learning disability would prevent him from graduating from high school, but he got a bachelor’s degree and now works to ensure other special needs students have an easier time than he did.

“For me, it’s all about the students,” Lavoie said. “I wake up every day determined to help kids learn.”

Recent turnover on the School Committee has seen three new members appointed by Mayor Mark Cayer.

The next election is set for Nov. 2.