Former state senator Lyle weighs bid to succeed O’Grady in House
LINCOLN – Former state senator Jack Lyle says he is “actively exploring” the possibility of running for state Rep. Jeremiah O’Grady’s District 49 House seat, making a return to public life after a hiatus of some 24 years.
Currently employed as a lawyer, Lyle may be best known as a longtime educator, mostly in Blackstone Valley schools. He worked for 24 years as a classroom teacher and administrator at Lincoln High School, six years as principal of Central Falls High School and two years as superintendent of schools on Block Island.
“The time has come to get back into the business of representing the citizens of Pawtucket and Lincoln at the Statehouse,” said Lyle, a Republican.
“I have really been encouraged by the support that I have received in reaching out to local and state leaders as well as my family, friends and neighbors while contemplating this run,” Lyle said in a statement. “All in all it appears that it’s almost time to jump off of the bench and get back into the game.”
Lyle said he still has “several i’s to dot and t’s to cross” before making an official announcement.
Lyle served five terms in the state Senate before stepping aside in 1994 to focus on his career as an educator and an attorney.
He is currently employed as a lawyer with the firm LaPlante, Sowa and Goldman, specializing in labor and education law. He has also worked as an arbitrator through the National Center for Dispute Settlement.
A Democrat, O’Grady announced recently that he would not seek another term in the House, citing health reasons.
O’Grady has represented District 49 – covering parts of Lincoln and Pawtucket – since 2010 and previously served as a member of the Lincoln Town Council from 2005-2009, the last two years as president.