In September, the Maine DOE will distribute grants to support the transition to proficiency-based diplomas to school administrative units operating schools.
Under Maine law, during the period of transition to awarding proficiency-based diplomas, if funds are available, the Maine DOE makes annual transition grants in the amount of one-ninth of one percent of the SAUs total cost of education, as calculated under the Essential Programs and Services (EPS) School funding formula.
The funds are intended to be used in the manner determined by the SAU to fund the costs of the transition not otherwise subsidized by the State. Guidance and examples of ways these funds may be used are available on the Getting to Proficiency section of the Maine DOE website. Each year, SAUs report how these funds were used on the Progress Report: Implementation of Proficiency-Based Diplomas.
For more information or technical assistance on making the transition to awarding proficiency-based diplomas, please contact Maine DOE Proficiency-Based Education Specialist Diana Doiron at diana.doiron@maine.gov or 624-6823.