As part of a federal requirement, the Maine Department of Education submits to the U.S. Department of Education teacher shortage areas for designation, based on collected data and public input. The U.S. DOE annually designates teacher shortage areas for purposes of deferment of loan repayments or reductions of teaching obligation.
The Department intends to propose the following as K-12 teacher shortage areas during the 2019-2020 school year:
- Early Childhood (0-5)
- Early Elementary (K-3)
- English as a Second Language
- Gifted/Talented
- World Languages (French, Spanish, Italian, Chinese, German)
- Special Education (Teacher of Students with Disabilities, Teacher of Severely Impaired Students)
- Science (Grades 5-8, Physical Sciences 7-12)
- Theater
- CTE (Automotive Mechanic, Carpentry, Computer Information Services, Machine Tool Operator, Weld Braze Solder, Plumbing, Law Enforcement, Co-Op Industrial Training, Agricultural Production, Forestry Products and Processing, Food Production Management, Business Administration, Child Care-Guidance)
The Maine Department of Education is committed to working with our schools to most accurately represent the needs and shortage areas across our state. We recognize the diverse geographic regions and varying conditions that comprise our public education system, and strive for equitable and accurate representation.
To provide input regarding a specific shortage area, or to propose additional shortage areas, please contact Emily Gribben with supporting materials by May 10, 2019.