Month: February 2014

K-12 should take note of higher ed’s voluntary move to proficiency-based system

Last week I had the opportunity to participate in the University of Maine at Presque Isle’s (UMPI) exciting announcement they would be moving to a proficiency-based system beginning next fall.

Perhaps nothing puts students first more than proficiency-based education. As many of you know, this model is built around the reality that while students learn in different ways and speeds, proficiency is ultimately the most critical outcome of their schooling. Continue reading “K-12 should take note of higher ed’s voluntary move to proficiency-based system” →

DOE provides guidance on educator evaluation steering committees

The next generation Performance Evaluation and Professional Growth (PE/PG) systems under development in Maine entail major shifts in how we approach the evaluation and professional development of educators. In making these shifts, schools in Maine and other states where educator effectiveness systems have been implemented report that stakeholder involvement, constituency buy-in and collaboration are essential to a successful outcome.   Continue reading “DOE provides guidance on educator evaluation steering committees” →

Section 504 training scheduled for March 28

The Maine DOE will host Section 504 training on March 28 in Augusta.

Region I Office for Civil Rights staff will discuss the requirements of Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act and Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act and explain the responsibilities of public schools in the education of students with disabilities. Additionally, a Maine panel of Section 504 experts will discuss individual school administrative unit’s approaches to the implementation of Section 504.  There will be time in each presentation for questions and answers. Continue reading “Section 504 training scheduled for March 28” →

Guiding Principles performance assessment tasks to support proficiency-based diplomas

The Maine DOE is currently collaborating with the Maine Curriculum Leaders Association and the Cohort for Customized Learning to develop performance assessment tasks aligned to the Guiding Principles of the Maine Learning Results. The Guiding Principles include five areas: being a clear and effective communicator, a self-directed and life-long learner, a creative and practical problem solver, a responsible and involved citizen, and an integrative and informed thinker. Continue reading “Guiding Principles performance assessment tasks to support proficiency-based diplomas” →

Comments sought on Maine’s IDEA Part B application

The Maine DOE is seeking comments from the public on its annual application for federal funds under Part B of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), which covers services for preschool- and school-age children with disabilities. Continue reading “Comments sought on Maine’s IDEA Part B application” →

State Board of Education seeks student representative

The Maine State Board of Education is accepting applications for potential student members from schools in the Second Congressional District.

Applicants must be current sophomore in good academic standing and willing to serve for two years, starting this summer. Continue reading “State Board of Education seeks student representative” →