Maine DOE Fiscal Coordinator Barbara McGowen is being highlighted this week as the part of a Get to know the DOE Team campaign! Learn a little more about Barbara in the brief question and answer below.
What are your roles with DOE?
I am the Fiscal Coordinator for the Office of Special Services. My team provides oversight of fiscal activities for the OSS teams, including, the State Agency Client Program, Due Process, Special Projects, IDEA and the Office of Special Services Grants and Contracts Program. My team provides technical assistance and support to Maine administrators, working collaboratively with them to achieve federal and state fiscal compliance.
What do you like best about your job?
I love being able to play even a small role in supporting the education of Maine’s children. My team works hard in tandem with SAUs to strengthen understanding of federal programs to create an environment of certainty and comfort. I am blessed to be working with an incredible group of dedicated people who work tirelessly to make a difference in education.
How or why did you decide on this career?
My education and training background is in financial management. I began my career in banking, eventually transitioning to work for a non-profit organization focused on creating opportunities for disenfranchised peoples. I enjoyed the mission of the non-profit and the people I worked with. When a position opened at the Department of Education it was at that moment in time when I was ready to let go of the endless search for funding and work to future retirement. I am incredibly pleased to say that I have found a new mission supporting Maine’s educators, administrators and students.
What do you like to do outside of work for fun?
Outside of work I enjoy spending time with family. Family get-togethers, picnics, celebrations, traveling, camping, you name it and I am there.