Author: Maine Department of Education

Maine DOE Update – October 17, 2025

From the Maine Department of Education

Data Reporting

Upcoming Fall Reports Due on October 30

The following Maine Department of Education (DOE) data reports are due for certification by school administrative units (SAUs) on October 30, 2025. All reports require review, validation, and certification by special education directors and superintendents. These reports have a direct impact on the Essential Programs and Services (EPS) subsidy. |  More

News & Updates

RSU 16 Choral Music Teacher Julia Edwards Named 2026 Maine Teacher of the Year

The Maine Department of Education (DOE) and Educate Maine are excited to announce Bruce Whittier Middle School/Poland Regional High School choral music teacher Julia Edwards as the 2026 Maine Teacher of the Year. On Thursday, October 16, 2025, Edwards celebrated this award with fellow RSU 16 educators and students during a surprise ceremony in the Poland Regional High School gymnasium. |  More

Collecting Student Economic Status Data for Essential Programs and Services Funding

Recognizing that school administrative units (SAUs) are in the midst of the fall data collection season, the Maine Department of Education (DOE) would like to clarify requirements related to the collection of student economic status data for the October 1 student enrollment report. |  More

30-Day Comment Period for Master Contractual Agreement for Private Schools Offering Special Education Programs

The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) is a federal law that requires that state educational agencies (SEAs), including the Maine Department of Education (DOE), and local educational agencies (LEAs), including school administrative units (SAUs), ensure that all of the rights and protections are given to students with disabilities who are placed by their SAUs in a private school to receive a free appropriate public education (FAPE). When placing a child in a private school, the SAU must ensure that the student has the same rights and procedural safeguards as a child served by a public agency or school. |  More

Suicide Prevention and Awareness Resources

As Maine schools get into the swing of the 2025-2026 school year, the Maine Department of Education (DOE) and the Maine Department of Health and Human Services Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) would like to share available resources to recognize, address, and support youth mental health. |  More

REMINDER: Public Comment Period for Proposed Rule Chapter 115 – The Credentialing of Education Personnel

In response to the 131st and 132nd Maine Legislature, the Maine State Board of Education is engaging in rulemaking to revise Chapter 115: The Credentialing of Education Personnel in alignment with its 2023 report to the Legislature. In that report, the State Board reviewed a number of credentialing topics, including pathways for specific endorsements. |  More

Maine Schools Sharing Success Stories

Submit good news to the Maine Department of Education here.

Professional Learning/Training Opportunities

Maine Department of Education Expands Access to High-Quality Literacy Professional Development

As part of Governor Janet Mills’ recently launched Maine State Reading Action Plan, the Maine Department of Education (DOE) is excited to announce an opportunity for Maine educators to access evidence-based literacy professional learning modules at a reduced cost. |  More

Maine DOE and Maine Community College System Host Statewide Virtual Showing of Counted Out Film Highlighting Math Literacy and Opportunity

The Maine Department of Education (DOE) and the Maine Community College System (MCCS) are inviting educators, families, and community members to a free statewide virtual showing of the film Counted Out on Tuesday, October 21, 2025, at 7 p.m. |  More

View the Maine Department of Education’s Events Calendar here.

Career/Project Opportunities:

Find education-related jobs in Maine.

Suicide Prevention and Awareness Resources

As Maine schools get into the swing of the 2025-2026 school year, the Maine Department of Education (DOE) and the Maine Department of Health and Human Services Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) would like to share available resources to recognize, address, and support youth mental health.

Data from the 2023 Maine Integrated Youth Health Survey (MIYHS) shows that, among other outcomes, more than one in six Maine high school students reported seriously considering suicide in the past 12 months. Similar data is available for middle school students. A new infographic from MIYHS summarizes this data.  

There are proven strategies that can support youth mental health and prevent suicide. Ensuring that students feel like they matter in their community, have a trusted adult they can talk to, and know that people at their school care about them can decrease the likelihood that a young person considers suicide or experiences other mental health challenges.

The Maine DOE and CDC have resources to support and assist school personnel in connecting with students. The graphics, resources, and materials included below are intended to help spread messages of hope, help, and strength throughout the year. Please consider sharing these materials and resources widely within your school and community networks.

Campaigns and Shareable Graphics

  • The Maine CDC is currently running the Filter Out the Noise youth suicide prevention campaign, designed to help young people recognize and remove negative influences or “noise” from their lives. It offers self-care tips, guidance on recognizing suicide warning signs, and encourages help-seeking behaviors. Visit the campaign website for more information or contact TSUP.DHHS@maine.gov for posters or other shareable videos, graphics, and content for social media from the Filter Out the Noise campaign.
  • The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) released a Suicide Prevention Awareness Month Toolkit with free messaging, downloadable graphics, and videos designed for a variety of audiences including youth. These resources can be used throughout the year.
  • 988 Maine has a variety of resources, and the 988 Lifeline is operational for anyone who calls. Additionally, although the 988 “Press 3” option for a direct line to LGBTQ+ youth support no longer exists, The Trevor Project provides 24/7, year-round, confidential, and free crisis support for LGBTQ+ youth. To access this support, text “Start” to 678-678, call 1-866-488-7386, or click here.


Physical Resources and Materials

  • The Maine Prevention Store is a year-round, one-stop shop for free prevention-related resources. The site provides bookmarks, self-care cards, and other resources specific to suicide prevention and support after a suicide loss.
  • Training for school personnel on Suicide Prevention and Awareness Student Lessons will be available from the Maine DOE and partners later in the school year.
  • NAMI Maine (Maine’s affiliate of the National Alliance on Mental Illness) offers suicide awareness, prevention, intervention, and protocol training for school personnel throughout the year through a contract with the Maine CDC. Visit the NAMI Maine Events Calendar to learn more.

For more information to support suicide prevention and awareness, please contact Mary Caron of the Maine CDC Injury Prevention Program at mary.caron@maine.gov, or Maine DOE Health Education and Health Promotion Consultant Susan Berry at susan.berry@maine.gov, or Maine DOE Climate Culture Resilience Team Coordinator Bear Shea at w.bear.shea@maine.gov.

Upcoming Fall Reports Due on October 30

The following Maine Department of Education (DOE) data reports are due for certification by school administrative units (SAUs) on October 30, 2025. All reports require review, validation, and certification by special education directors and superintendents. These reports have a direct impact on the Essential Programs and Services (EPS) subsidy.

Please note that it is recommended to wait until October 30 to complete the following certifications:

  • EF-S-05 Part 2 Special Education Staff FTEs Certification
    • This report must be certified by special education directors before the Staff Certification report can be certified.
  • Staff Certification
    • This report must be certified by superintendents.
  • EF-S-05 Part 1 Special Education Child Count
    • This report must be certified by special education directors before the October 1 Student Enrollment can be certified.
  • October 1 Student Enrollment
    • This report must be certified by superintendents.

Reporting guidance, instructions, and webinars about these reports can be found on the Maine Education Data Management Systems (MEDMS) Data Systems Support webpage.

With questions about these reports, please contact MEDMS at MEDMS.Support@maine.gov or 207-624-6896.

Maine DOE and Maine Community College System Host Statewide Virtual Showing of Counted Out Film Highlighting Math Literacy and Opportunity

The Maine Department of Education (DOE) and the Maine Community College System (MCCS) are inviting educators, families, and community members to a free statewide virtual showing of the film Counted Out on Tuesday, October 21, 2025, at 7 p.m.

This live virtual event, made possible through the partnership of the Maine DOE and MCCS, is part of a shared commitment to promoting numeracy and equitable, rigorous math pathways across public education in Maine.

Counted Out argues that numeracy and math literacy—the ability to speak the language of math—are critical determinants of social and economic mobility and engagement. This film highlights how access to meaningful math learning experiences can open doors to opportunity, civic participation, and confidence for all learners.

While Counted Out is not about math pathways specifically, its message underscores the central role of math literacy in ensuring students’ future success. This virtual showing offers a chance for educators and community members statewide to join a collective conversation about how to help all Maine students see themselves as capable mathematical thinkers.

Registration is required to participate in the live showing, and the film will begin promptly at 7 p.m. on October 21. Upon registering, participants will receive a unique ticket link by email. Watch the Counted Out trailer and register here.

Celebrating Statewide Engagement

Earlier this fall, in-person screenings and guided dinner discussions were hosted in communities across the state through a collaboration between the Maine DOE, the Maine Math and Science Alliance (MMSA), and the Association of Teachers of Mathematics in Maine (ATOMIM). These regional events brought together educators, administrators, and community members to reflect on the film and share ideas for advancing numeracy in Maine schools.

Participants described Counted Out as “inspiring,” “eye-opening,” and “a reminder that math is for everyone.” Many highlighted the importance of creating classrooms where mathematics feels relevant, engaging, and connected to real life.

One educator wrote, “Creative math classrooms result in creative mathematical thinkers,” while another reflected that, “We need to change the narrative, so every student sees themselves as capable and curious about math.” Others expressed a desire to continue connecting with like-minded educators and exploring new approaches to hands-on, community-based math learning.

Maine DOE Chief Teaching and Learning Officer Beth Lambert praised the collaboration behind the screenings and the enthusiasm of participants statewide.

“The conversations around Counted Out remind us that math is more than numbers—it’s a language of empowerment,” Lambert said. “We’re excited to bring that message to even more Mainers through the upcoming virtual showing.”

MEDIA RELEASE: RSU 16 Choral Music Teacher Julia Edwards Named 2026 Maine Teacher of the Year

2026 Maine Teacher of the Year Julia Edwards is a choral music teacher at Bruce Whittier Middle School and Poland Regional High School.

Poland, MAINE—The Maine Department of Education (DOE) and Educate Maine are excited to announce Bruce Whittier Middle School/Poland Regional High School choral music teacher Julia Edwards as the 2026 Maine Teacher of the Year. On Thursday, October 16, 2025, Edwards celebrated this award with fellow RSU 16 educators and students during a surprise ceremony in the Poland Regional High School gymnasium.

“Congratulations to Julia Edwards on earning this well-deserved recognition as 2026 Maine Teacher of the Year!” Pender Makin, Commissioner of the Maine Department of Education, said. “Her enthusiasm for music and its ability to serve as a connector across cultures and differences is remarkable, and her gift for extending that love of the arts to her students is admirable. Maine is lucky to have Julia representing and advocating for educators statewide throughout the next year.”

Hundreds of educators across the state were nominated for the 2026 Maine Teacher of the Year process. In May, Edwards was selected as the 2025 Androscoggin County Teacher of the Year, alongside 15 other County Teachers of the Year. In August, Edwards became one of four state finalists before she was ultimately named 2026 Maine Teacher of the Year.

“Music is at the root of some of the best learning in history. Try to summon up the elementary lessons that have stuck with you, and you’ll often find them attached to rhythm or song. As a community, we find our shared humanity through music. It builds bridges; it spans generations and cultures; and it holds power for positive change,” said Julia Edwards, 2026 Maine Teacher of the Year. “We are fortunate that, in addition to living in a state filled with stellar educators, we can also celebrate Maine’s music programs that serve both their students and communities.”

Edwards is the choral music teacher at RSU 16’s Bruce Whittier Middle School and Poland Regional High School in Poland. She earned her Bachelor of Music degree in Music Education at the University of Massachusetts – Amherst, where she studied oboe and served as a teaching fellow for the Children’s Chorus of Springfield. She returned home to Bridgton after graduating college to teach elementary music in North Conway, New Hampshire for two years before accepting her current position in the fall of 2012. 

Edwards’ leadership experience at Poland Regional High School includes coordinating the “Roundtable” grade-level advisory program and serving as coordinator for the all-virtual learning program during the hybrid school year. As an advocate for professional collaboration, she served on the District Professional Learning Committee, where she proposed and co-created RSU 16’s annual district-wide conference. She finds the most joy, however, in working with her students. Edwards believes that all students deserve access to an excellent music education, regardless of their background, identity, or geographical location. Cultural curiosity and musicianship are at the core of her teaching philosophy, and she has worked to create many intercultural and intergenerational experiences for her students and community.

In addition to her teaching responsibilities, Edwards has served as a guest clinician and manager for district and state festivals in Maine and has presented on pedagogical topics for state, regional, and national conferences. She recently moved into the role of president for the Maine chapter of the American Choral Directors Association, where she is working to expand community singing opportunities throughout the state. As an advocate for cultural curiosity, Edwards has designed a Cultural Context Curriculum, which helps students to develop tools for ethically and enthusiastically exploring the world around them, as well as skills to be better world citizens. She believes music and community are synonymous, and she loves participating in the music community as a listener and performer. 

Outside of teaching, Edwards enjoys skiing, cross-stitching, playing concerts with her folk band, “Bold Riley,” and exploring the Maine outdoors with her husband, two children, and rowdy dog, Baxter.

Read this article to learn more about Edwards: A Day with Julia Edwards: Celebrating a 2026 Maine Teacher of the Year Finalist and Beloved Choral Educator

The Maine Teacher of the Year Program is a year-long process that involves educator portfolio and resume submissions, interviews, oral presentations, and classroom visits made by a selection panel comprised of Maine State Board of Education members, school administrators, Maine DOE staff, legacy Maine Teachers of the Year, and Maine business partners.

“I want to offer a huge congratulations to Julia Edwards for being named the 2026 Maine Teacher of the Year,” said Jason Judd, Ed. D., executive director of Educate Maine. “This recognition honors Julia’s innovative practice, her enthusiasm for the work, and her unique connection to her students. In her classroom, Julia demonstrates every day what it truly means to be a teacher of impact.”

As 2026 Maine Teacher of the Year, Edwards will spend her year of service advocating for students and teachers and speaking about the importance of education in preparing Maine’s next generation of leaders for the future. She will also represent Maine in the National Teacher of the Year program.

“Julia is about to have one of the most meaningful years of her life,” said Becky Hallowell, the 2025 Maine Teacher of the Year. “Mainers are fortunate to have Julia representing them. She has a gift for reaching out to all to celebrate the joy that music brings to us all. Julia’s natural generosity of spirit indicates that the entire community will be lifted and celebrated while she serves as the 2026 Maine Teacher of the Year.”

“Anyone who has seen Julia in action knows that her classroom is a place filled with laughter, learning, and genuine connection. She is the teacher who every student remembers—the one who believes in them, challenges them, and helps them discover their confidence,” said Amy Hediger, superintendent of RSU 16. “We could not be more proud that Maine has recognized what our community has long known: Julia Edwards is extraordinary.”

The Maine Teacher of the Year program is administered by Educate Maine, a business-led advocacy organization, in partnership with the Maine DOE, the Maine State Board of Education, and the Maine County and State Teachers of the Year Association. Funding for the program is generously provided by Bangor Savings Bank, Unum, Hannaford Supermarket, Geiger, Maine State Lottery, and the Silvernail family.

For more information about the Maine Teacher of the Year program, visit mainetoy.org. 

30-Day Comment Period for Master Contractual Agreement for Private Schools Offering Special Education Programs

The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) is a federal law that requires that state educational agencies (SEAs), including the Maine Department of Education (DOE), and local educational agencies (LEAs), including school administrative units (SAUs), ensure that all of the rights and protections are given to students with disabilities who are placed by their SAUs in a private school to receive a free appropriate public education (FAPE). When placing a child in a private school, the SAU must ensure that the student has the same rights and procedural safeguards as a child served by a public agency or school.

For years, private schools across Maine have been partnering with SAUs to ensure that students with disabilities have their services carried out in these private schools. While this is often the case, the Maine DOE has become aware of instances when SAUs have placed students in private schools to receive their special education services, only to have the private schools discharge them from these educational placements outside of the individual education program (IEP) team process.

Changing a student’s educational program or placement outside of the IEP team process is a violation of the procedural safeguards, which are a part of the IDEA. Parents who have sought to challenge the change of placement through due process have been unable to obtain legal recourse because private schools cannot be parties to a due process hearing and are not subject to a corrective action plan at the conclusion of a state complaint investigation. At the same time, private schools that have safety concerns about maintaining placements lack an administrative avenue to have their concerns heard.

Maine law requires that private schools seeking to provide special education programs enter into a master contractual agreement with the commissioner (20-A M.R.S. 7252-A). Since the Maine DOE is responsible for ensuring that all SAUs are compliant with the IDEA, the Maine DOE has drafted a master contractual agreement between the Maine DOE and private schools offering special education services to children with IEPs. This draft agreement articulates responsibilities and outlines the procedures that private schools and SAUs will follow when a SAU places a student who has an IEP in a private school.

Before finalizing the master agreement, the Maine DOE is interested in receiving feedback and comments from all stakeholders. There will be a 30-day comment period from October 15 until November 15 when stakeholders are encouraged to provide feedback on the draft master agreement. This feedback will be used when finalizing the master contractual agreement, which will be issued in early January 2026.

The draft of the master contractual agreement can be found here. Comments can be provided using this form. Please direct questions to Laura Cyr at Laura.Cyr@maine.gov. This information can also be found on the Maine DOE website.

Collecting Student Economic Status Data for Essential Programs and Services Funding

Recognizing that school administrative units (SAUs) are in the midst of the fall data collection season, the Maine Department of Education (DOE) would like to clarify requirements related to the collection of student economic status data for the October 1 student enrollment report.

The calculation of state public school funding through the Essential Programs and Services (EPS) model requires an annual collection of student economic status data. This data is collected using one or more of the following sources:

SAUs participating in Special Provision programs, including the Community Eligibility Provision (CEP) and Special Provision II (SPII) are encouraged to use the Alternate Economic Status Form to collect student economic status data for EPS funding purposes.

All superintendents must certify the October 1 student enrollment report by October 30, 2025. Please be sure to collect student economic status data before that deadline. This data may be collected using either a hard copy or an online form. It must be entered into the SAU’s Student Information System for each student and retained for up to 10 years.

Additional resources include:

If you have questions about or need technical assistance with the Alternate Economic Status Form, please contact Charlotte Ellis at charlotte.ellis@maine.gov. All other questions related to CEP and SPII should be directed to David Hartley at david.hartley@maine.gov. For general questions regarding student data collection, please contact the Maine Education Data Management Support (MEDMS) Support Team at 207-624-6896 or medms.support@maine.gov.

Thank you for your prompt attention to this important requirement, which directly impacts state public school funding calculations.

Maine Department of Education Expands Access to High-Quality Literacy Professional Development

As part of Governor Janet Mills’ recently launched Maine State Reading Action Plan, the Maine Department of Education (DOE) is excited to announce an opportunity for Maine educators to access evidence-based literacy professional learning modules at a reduced cost.

In the summer of 2024, the Maine DOE provided free access to AIM Institute for Learning & Research’s Steps to Literacy modules. Nearly 650 educators completed more than 20,000 hours of professional learning grounded in the science of reading, covering phonological awareness, phonics, decoding, spelling, language expression, writing, emerging literacy, vocabulary, dyslexia, and supports for multilingual learners.

Building on that success, in 2025, to sustain momentum, the Maine DOE has expanded access to AIM modules and launched Communities of Practice (COP) for school teams. The COPs are designed to deepen professional knowledge and build school-level capacity to implement high-quality, evidence-based literacy instruction.

Recognizing that access to affordable and user-friendly professional learning is critical, the Maine DOE invited professional learning providers offering asynchronous modules that met established criteria to extend reduced-rate access to Maine educators. The Maine DOE has established master agreements with two providers, enabling school administrative units (SAUs) to purchase quality, evidence-based literacy modules at a discounted cost. Details are available here: Maine Department of Education | Professional Literacy Modules.

Reimbursement Opportunity

While any Maine educator may purchase modules at the reduced price, Maine’s Preschool Development Grant (PDG) will reimburse SAUs for modules successfully completed by educators working, or supporting, pre-K through grade 3.

  • Who pays up front: SAUs may purchase modules directly from one of the approved vendors (below).
  • Reimbursement window: Through December 15, 2025, SAUs may submit for reimbursement.
  • What to submit: Invoices should be submitted on SAU letterhead with proof of successful completion for each module.
  • Where to send: Please email invoices and documentation to Renee Reilly, Maine DOE PDG Manager, at renee.a.reilly@maine.gov.

Professional Learning Module Options

AIM Pathways™ is an interactive digital training platform that delivers evidence-based content in the science of reading. Each Steps to Literacy module follows a “learn, practice, apply” cycle and includes teaching techniques, demonstration videos, and printable resources to help educators integrate new strategies into classroom practice. Learn more about accessing AIM Pathways modules here.

Keys to Literacy offers a comprehensive, research-backed approach to sustainable literacy improvement. Its courses integrate evidence-based instruction with systems, structures, and leadership practices that support equitable and effective learning environments. All modules are designed for asynchronous, on-demand access, allowing educators to engage in professional learning on their own schedules. Learn more about accessing Keys to Literacy modules here.

Through these master agreements, the Maine DOE is ensuring that Maine educators have affordable opportunities to deepen their expertise and strengthen literacy instruction for all students.

For additional information or questions related to module content, please contact Dee Saucier, Maine DOE Inclusive Education Literacy Specialist and Dyslexia Coordinator, at danielle.m.saucier@maine.gov. For inquiries regarding reimbursement, please contact Renee Reilly at renee.a.reilly@maine.gov.

Maine DOE Update – October 10, 2025

From the Maine Department of Education

Data Reporting

NEO Dropout Report Due Soon

The Maine Department of Education (DOE) Dropout Report is due to be certified by superintendents by Wednesday, October 15, 2025, in NEO. |  More

News & Updates

Maine DOE Announces Plans to Strengthen ‘Back-to-Basics’ Reading and Math Skills

For the 2025-2026 school year, the Maine DOE has launched the Maine State Reading and Math Action Plans, twin initiatives to bring more evidence-based instruction, educator training, and academic partnerships into Maine classrooms to improve student skills in these core academic areas. |  More

Maine Celebrates National School Lunch Week and Farm to CACFP Week, with Apple Crunch Day Slated for October 15

National School Lunch Week and Farm to CACFP Week will both be celebrated the week of October 13-17, 2025! This year, a special highlight to celebrate nutrition in Maine is Apple Crunch Day, slated for Wednesday, October 15, 2025. This is an engaging and fun event where children and adults across the state are invited to take big, crunchy bites out of fresh, local apples at the same time. |  More

ADMINISTRATIVE LETTER: Legal Requirements to Provide English Language Acquisition Services to Students Who Are Multilingual Learners (Revised October 9, 2025)

Administrative Letter: #2
Policy Code: IHBEA
TO: Public School Administrators
DATE: August 22, 2019, Revised September 15, 2021, Revised June 21, 2023, Revised October 9, 2025
SUBJECT: The legal requirements for providing English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) services to students who are multilingual learners |  More

Public Comment Period for Proposed Rule Chapter 115 – The Credentialing of Education Personnel

In response to the 131st and 132nd Maine Legislature, the Maine State Board of Education is engaging in rulemaking to revise Chapter 115: The Credentialing of Education Personnel in alignment with its 2023 report to the Legislature. In that report, the State Board reviewed a number of credentialing topics, including pathways for specific endorsements. |  More

Deadline Extended for Attendance Messaging Campaign Logo Design Contest; Details on How Schools Can Submit

The Maine Department of Education (DOE) is pleased to announce that schools will have additional time to participate in the Maine DOE’s attendance messaging campaign. In September, MEAC invited schools across the state to host their own logo design contests based on this campaign name/slogan. Schools may determine the parameters of their contests. Their winning logo must be submitted to the Maine DOE by Friday, October 24, 2025, at 5 p.m. (extended from the original submission date of October 10). This is an excellent opportunity for potential statewide recognition, as we all consider our vital role in increasing attendance in Maine schools. |  More

Maine Schools Sharing Success Stories

Maine Student Leader Nathan Prest Honored with 2025 FosterClub Outstanding Young Leader Award

The Maine Department of Education (DOE) is proud to celebrate Nathan Prest, a student leader and advocate, for being named a 2025 FosterClub Outstanding Young Leader. This national recognition honors exceptional youth with lived experience in foster care who are creating positive change in their communities. |  More

“Civics on the Road” Launches at Main Street Middle School in Madison

The Maine Department of Education (DOE) Office of Teaching and Learning, in partnership with the Maine Department of the Secretary of State and the Maine Semiquincentennial Commission, launched its new traveling initiative “Civics on the Road” at Main Street Middle School in Madison in September. This program debuted on Constitution Day, September 17, 2025, immersing local fifth- and sixth-grade students in hands-on civic learning. |  More

Submit good news to the Maine Department of Education here.

Professional Learning/Training Opportunities

Explore Innovation in Action: Maine DOE Fall Peer-to-Peer Learning Tour Registration Now Open

The Maine Department of Education (DOE) Office of Innovation is pleased to announce that this fall, there will be several opportunities for educators to engage in peer-to-peer learning that highlights innovative educational programming! |  More

Asynchronous Professional Learning Opportunity: Exploring the Question Formulation Technique (QFT)

Starting October 21, 2025, the Maine Department of Education (DOE) Office of Teaching and Learning invites educators to explore the Question Formulation Technique (QFT), developed by the Right Question Institute. |  More

Monthly Arts Integration Office Hours Available Starting in November

Do you have questions about arts integration? Are you looking for fresh ideas to make your lessons more engaging? Join Maine Department of Education (DOE) Arts Integration Teacher Leader Fellow Joshua Chard each month for an informal drop-in, virtual office hours—an open space to explore creative connections between the visual and performing arts and your teaching. |  More

Informational Session on the Maine School Bus Purchasing Program

The Maine School Bus Purchasing Program will open on November 1, 2025, and close on November 25, 2025. Before then, please consider joining Cheryl Brackett, Maine Department of Education (DOE) Transportation Coordinator; Donna Tiner, Maine DOE School Finance Coordinator; and Kimberly Hall, Maine DOE Education Data Systems Manager, for a Maine School Bus Purchasing Program informational session on October 15, 2025, from 1-2 p.m. via Zoom. |  More

View the Maine Department of Education’s Events Calendar here.

Career/Project Opportunities:

Find education-related jobs in Maine.

Explore Innovation in Action: Maine DOE Fall Peer-to-Peer Learning Tour Registration Now Open

The Maine Department of Education (DOE) Office of Innovation is pleased to announce that this fall, there will be several opportunities for educators to engage in peer-to-peer learning that highlights innovative educational programming!

Are you an educator interested in exploring immersive learning experiences for your school and students? The Office of Innovation’s Mobile Learning Van is conducting various Learning Tours throughout the school year, and we’d love for you to join us! On each tour, we visit a school that is engaging in innovative learning programs for its students, and we invite educators across the state to see the programs in action and collaborate on all aspects of implementation.

This work stems from $16.9 million in  Rethink K-12 Education Models Funding from the U.S. Department of Education. Maine was one of 11 states to receive that funding in August of 2020 and used it to launch the Rethinking Responsive Education Ventures (RREV) project, a multi-pronged solution with a primary goal of generating innovative remote learning models to provide equitable access to high-quality remote (out-of-the-classroom) learning opportunities for all students. The Office of Innovation is continuing the momentum of this work by offering Learning Tours and fostering peer-to-peer professional learning.

The Learning Tour space is limited to 10 additional Maine educators at each location. If you are interested in joining us on any Learning Tour, please register here or contact Elaine Bartley, Maine DOE Innovative Research and Design Director, at elaine.bartley@maine.gov. You may also contact Elaine with any questions. Additionally, keep an eye on our website for future Learning Tour opportunities!

The current list of tours and events scheduled for the fall of 2025 includes:

St. George Municipal School
October 28, 2025
9 a.m.-2 p.m.

St. George Municipal School was a RREV awardee. Through its innovative pilot, it has created the first pre-K-grade 8 Career and Technical Education (CTE) curriculum in the nation. It also used part of its funding to help build the Grace Innovation Center—the first pre-K-adult CTE center! On October 28, we will get the opportunity to see its new Makerspace building, see the learning in action, and talk to teachers and students.

Kennebunk High School (Alternative Education)
December 2, 2025
9 a.m.-2 p.m.

Kennebunk High School (KHS) was a RREV awardee through its Alternative Education program. During this Learning Tour, we will discuss conducting independent projects with students; tour the Kennebunkport Conservation Trust, where KHS students have helped to create an immersive learning space; and observe an alternative education program in action.

Princeton Elementary School (Technology Education)
December 9, 2025
8:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m.

Princeton Elementary School technology educator Donna Netzer was a recent Maine DOE Maine Learning Technology Initiative (MLTI) ambassador. During this tour, we will observe and discuss technology integration in the math classroom. We will explore showcase products, experience recommended technology tools, and share numerous resources. There will also be an opportunity to stay longer and participate in an after-school tech group that will be working with the technology available in the Maine DOE Mobile Learning Van. Students will explore interviewing and broadcasting skills!

Special Outdoor Learning Day Event at MeANS
October 27, 2025

In addition to our Learning Tours, the Office of Innovation will be co-hosting the upcoming Outdoor Learning Day in collaboration with the Maine Environmental Education Association (MEEA) on October 27, 2025. This event is happening at the Maine Academy of Natural Sciences (MeANS), which was also a RREV awardee. Experienced educators will model lessons for a wide variety of grade levels and subject areas, with time for debrief and discussion after each lesson. Attendees will be able to view outdoor learning infrastructure at MeANS and participate in conversations about funding outdoor learning, safety planning, and behavior management. Use this link to register for the event. We hope to see you there!