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 2020-2021 school year:
- Early Elementary (K-3)
- Early Childhood (Pre-K)
- Teacher of Students with Disabilities
- French
- Spanish
- Health
- Theater
- English – Second Language
- CTE (Firefighter/EMT, Automotive Mechanics, Truck, Automotive Body Repair, Diesel Engine Mechanic, Carpentry, Marine Maintenance, Electrician, Computer Info Services, Machine Toll Oper/Shop, Weld Braze Solder, Building Maintenance, Plumbing, Agricultural Prod. Gen, Allied Health, Nursing Asst.)
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 Stephanie Fyfe at stephanie.fyfe@maine.gov or (207)-624-6751.