From Maine Education Commissioner Jim Rier
Earlier this year, the Department released six options by which districts could apply for extensions to fully implementing systems to support the awarding of proficiency-based diplomas starting in 2018.
I continue to be appreciative of the positive feedback we regularly receive in response to offering that flexibility. Many educators and district leaders have commented that while they had initially been uncertain about the extension application process, it ended up being a valuable opportunity for reflection that helped focus local efforts moving forward to best ensure quality implementation.
But nothing has been more encouraging than seeing the high number of extension applications and confirmations of readiness that the Department received by the Oct. 18 final deadline. To date, 95 applications/confirmations representing 99 high schools have been submitted and we have been contacted by superintendents representing seven other high schools that their applications are forthcoming following local school board approval. This overwhelming response reflects the statewide commitment to better preparing our students for college and career success.
Notices and Reporting
- School Bus Purchase Program Application (NEO Transportation)(EF-T-17), due Nov. 25
- NCLB Title I Comparability, due Nov. 25
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News & Views
Commissioner Rier: Planning for 2014-15 statewide assessment success
Though the March 16 through May 29, 2015 window schools have for administering this new Maine Educational Assessment (MEA) for Mathematics and English Language Arts/Literacy is months away, there is already significant work underway across the state to ensure staff and students are prepared for success. | More
Maine DOE welcomes new assessment and accountability staff
Charlene Tucker and Nancy Godfrey have joined Maine DOE as members of the assessment and accountability team. | More
Workshops offered for suicide prevention
The Maine Suicide Prevention Program is offering a series of workshops for school personnel to create and strengthen protocols around suicide prevention, intervention and postvention. | More
Maine DOE proposing rules to public preschool programs
The Maine DOE is proposing rules pertaining to public preschool programs. | More
Input sought for teacher shortage areas
The Maine DOE has been notified of the requirement to submit Maine teacher shortage areas by Dec. 11 for designation by the U.S. Department of Education (U.S. DOE) for the 2015-2016 school year. | More
RFP issued for education-related services for homeless children and youth
The Maine DOE has reissued a request for proposals (RFP) seeking bids to develop and implement programs providing educational and related services under the McKinney-Vento Act. | More
School food service employees recognized for years of service
The Maine DOE and Maine School Nutrition Association recently honored several local school food service staff members for their 20 years or more of service at their fall conference. | More
Hyde School to host Maine Youth Leadership Day, students invited
Hyde School in Bath will be hosting its second annual Maine Youth Leadership Day on Nov. 6. | More
Portland Public Schools publish learning guides for families
A series of new learning guides for families that outline what students in kindergarten through grade five are expected to know and be able to master in mathematics and English language arts has been developed by Portland Public Schools. | More
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