Veazie Students Shine at the Maine FIRST LEGO League Challenge State Championship

On February 7, 2026, the 26th annual Maine FIRSTLEGO League Challenge State Championship brought together 24 teams from across the state at Spruce Mountain Middle School in Jay. Teams tested their robots on this season’s “unearthed” competition tables—which featured an archaeology theme—and met with judges to present their innovation projects.

The Veazie Viking Robotics won the Maine FIRST LEGO League Challenge State Championship.(Courtesy: Veazie Community School Facebook page)

The Veazie Viking Robotics (Team 26180), representing Veazie Community School, won this year’s Maine state championship. The team will now have the opportunity to represent Maine at the FIRST LEGO League World Festival in Houston, Texas, this April. Students have already begun fundraising efforts to support their travel. Despite experiencing mentor changes this season, the Veazie Viking Robotics demonstrated tremendous growth since showcasing their robot at the Maine Computer Science Education Showcase in December.

Other awards presented to teams at the Maine FIRST LEGO League Challenge State Championship included:

The Champion’s Finalist Award, presented to the Robosharks (Team 1440) from Kittery.
The Robot Performance Award, presented to The Fellowship (Team 61905), representing the Cobscook Currents 4-H Club in Washington County.
The Robot Performance Finalist Award, presented to the Frosted Yoshies (Team 51454) from Berwick.
The Core Values and Core Values Finalists Awards, presented to the Pink Shovels (Team 72112) and the Northern Dig (Team 72113)—both from Caribou. FIRST’s Core Values include discovery, innovation, impact, inclusion, teamwork, and fun. The commitment of the Pink Shovels and Northern Dig was especially evident in their willingness to make a nine-hour round trip to the event.
The Robot Design and Robot Design Finalist Awards, presented to the Wentworth Brick Invaders (Team 69634) from Scarborough and the Dino Eggs (Team 3484) from Jay, respectively.
The Innovation Project Award, presented to the Squires of Katahdin (Team 61864) from Wilton. Their project featured the development of a handheld tool that uses mechanical vibrations to assist with excavating, aligned closely with this season’s theme.
The Innovation Project Finalist Award, presented to the Hermon Hawks (Team 69695) for their concept of the Gaia Beetle, a mobile, enclosed structure designed to protect excavation sites from extreme weather conditions, while preserving artifacts and improving archeologist safety and health.
The Rising All-Star Award, presented to the LMS Coyotes 6 (Team 74819) from RSU 34.

The LMS Coyotes 6 (Team 74819) from RSU 34 won the Rising All-Star Award at the Maine FIRST LEGO League Challenge State Championship. (Courtesy: RSU 34 LMS Facebook page)

Individual honors were also presented at the Maine FIRST LEGO League Challenge State Championship. The Outstanding Volunteer Award went to Ryan MacDonald of the Maine School of Science and Mathematics (MSSM) in Limestone. The Coach/Mentor Award went to Arik Akerburg, mentor to the Seacoast Seals (Team 70877) and the Colossal Krakens (Team 26429), both based in South Berwick.

To learn more about robotics opportunities in Maine schools, please visit the Robotics Institute of Maine (RIM). Additional information about computer science and robotics education can be found on the Maine Department of Education’s (DOE) Learning Through Technology webpage. Schools wishing to share their robotics success stories are encouraged to contact jonathan.m.graham@maine.gov.

Celebrating National Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP) Week from March 15-21, 2026

The Maine Department of Education (DOE) is pleased to join the Maine Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP) community in celebrating National CACFP Week from March 15-21, 2026. This week highlights the vital role nutritious meals play in supporting children, families, and adult participants in care settings.

CACFP is a federally funded program that helps child care centers, family child care homes, afterschool programs, and adult care programs serve balanced, nutritious meals and snacks to the individuals they serve each day. Across Maine, CACFP supports thousands of meals served to children and adults in care settings each year. In 2025, CACFP daycare homes and CACFP center sites served:

1,201,550 breakfasts
1,181,632 lunches
1,468,979 snacks
291,139 dinners

These meals help ensure participating children and adults have access to the nutritious food they need to support growth, learning, health, and well-being.

Throughout the week, Maine CACFP will feature themed activities:

Monday – Fueling Maine’s Future Day: Highlighting how balanced meals and snacks support growth, learning, and wellness.
Tuesday – Color Your Plate Day: Encouraging programs to serve a variety of colorful fruits and vegetables.
Wednesday – Literacy and Lunch Day: Promoting the connection between healthy meals and learning through story time.
Thursday – Thank a Provider Day: Recognizing the dedication of childcare and adult care providers.
Friday – Farm to CACFP Day: Celebrating the connection between local agriculture and the healthy foods served in CACFP programs.

This campaign aims to increase awareness of CACFP’s impact and celebrate the providers who help strengthen Maine communities every day.

For more information about CACFP, visit the Maine DOE website or contact the Maine DOE Child Nutrition Team.

Registration Open for Maine Association for Pupil Transportation Regional Conferences

The Maine Association for Pupil Transportation (MAPT), a statewide professional organization dedicated to supporting student transportation across Maine, is hosting its 2026 regional conferences in April and June.

These events provide high-quality professional development, hands-on training, networking opportunities, and skills competitions for transportation professionals from across Maine. Each MAPT regional conference features a full day of targeted training sessions and skills events, designed to promote safety, leadership, and operational excellence in student transportation. These events bring together transportation staff from various school administrative units (SAUs) statewide to strengthen best practices, enhance collaboration, and recognize professional achievement.

Event Dates/Regions:

April 21, 2026 – RSU 57 (Massabesic High School, 88 West Road, Waterboro, ME 04087)
April 22, 2026 – RSU 3 (Mount View Middle and High School, 577 Mount View Road, Thorndike, ME 04986)
April 23, 2026 – Mt. Blue Regional School District (Mt. Blue High School, 129 Seamon Road, Farmington, ME 04938)
June 23, 2026 – MSAD 27 (Fort Kent Community High School, 84 Pleasant Street, Fort Kent, ME 04743)
June 25, 2026 – AOS 96 (Machias Memorial High School, 1 Bulldog Lane, Machias, ME 04654)

For each MAPT regional conference, the agenda will include a 7:30-8 a.m. check-in, with coffee, breakfast, and lunch provided throughout the day. Each conference will end with an awards ceremony at 2 p.m.

The following sessions will be available for participants at each conference:

Drivers’ Skills Competition: This is a high-energy, hands-on competition where drivers demonstrate precision, safety, and professionalism behind the wheel. Participants navigate real-world scenarios that sharpen skills, build confidence, and celebrate excellence in student transportation.
Secure It All – Hands-On Securement Training: This interactive training is focused on proper use and installation of school bus securement systems. Participants will practice correct techniques to ensure students and equipment are safely secured every time—because details matter.
From Mirrors to Mindset: Safety starts with awareness. This session goes beyond mirror adjustment to focus on defensive driving, situational awareness, and the professional mindset required to transport students safely and confidently each day.
Operational Readiness and School Bus Egress (Simulated Smoke): This powerful, real-world simulation prepares transportation professionals for emergency situations. Participants will experience bus evacuation procedures under simulated smoke conditions to strengthen response time, teamwork, and crisis readiness.
Round Table for Directors: This collaborative leadership session is designed specifically for transportation directors. Engage in strategic discussion, share challenges and solutions, and explore innovative practices shaping the future of school transportation.
Open Forum – Moderated Discussion for Drivers, Bus Monitors, and Mechanics: A guided conversation provides frontline professionals the opportunity to share concerns, challenges, and ideas. This open dialogue encourages problem-solving, strengthens communication, and ensures every voice in transportation is heard.

MAPT remains committed to partnering with the Maine Department of Education (DOE), SAUs, and school leaders to ensure Maine’s student transportation teams are always driven by safety. These regional conferences are free to all Maine school bus drivers and transportation directors, reinforcing MAPT’s mission to make professional growth accessible statewide.

To register to attend any of the MAPT regional conferences, please visit MAPT | Conferences. Those with questions may contact Mitzii Smith at 207-222-4927.

Nominations Open for 2026-2027 Maine School Nurse of the Year

Nominations are open for the 2026-2027 Maine School Nurse of the Year award, an annual recognition through the Maine Association of School Nurses (MASN). The application deadline is April 17, 2026.

This award recognizes an outstanding school nurse for their contributions to the school and community they serve. Nominees must demonstrate leadership in six areas of practice: care provision, program management, health education, professional development, community involvement, and research.

The selected individual will receive a $500 cash award and be recognized at the School Nurse Summer Institute in July.

To nominate someone for Maine School Nurse of the Year, please compile a nomination packet, including:

A completed nomination form (found on the MASN website linked below)
Three to five reference letters, with at least one from an administrator
The curriculum vitae/resume of the nominee
A written report addressing the aforementioned six areas of practice

Nomination packets must be submitted by April 17, 2026, to Maine School Nurse of the Year Coordinator Erin Taylor. Please either send your nomination packet via email to etaylor@capeelizabethschools.org or email Taylor to request thebest mailing address for submission of a physical packet. You may also contact Taylor with any additional questions.

If you know a school nurse who inspires you with their dedication to the school community, please consider nominating them for this prestigious award! Visit the MASN website to learn more.

Registration Open for McKinney-Vento Spring 2026 Regional Meetings

In March, April, and May, the Maine Department of Education (DOE) will host its McKinney-Vento Spring 2026 Regional Meetings to provide updates on federal, state, and local policies and discuss resources available for students and families experiencing homelessness or housing instability.

McKinney-Vento Regional Meetings are an opportunity for liaisons or other school staff/community partners who are supporting students and families experiencing housing instability to come together and hear updates from the Maine DOE, connect with colleagues from neighboring communities, learn about new resources, and ask questions in a collaborative space.

The schedule for the McKinney-Vento Spring 2026 Regional Meetings is as follows:

Androscoggin, Franklin, and Oxford Counties – Dingley Building, 36 Oak Street, Lewiston, ME 04240 – Thursday, March 26, 2026, 9-11:30 a.m.
Midcoast, Kennebec, and Somerset Counties – Maine Department of Corrections (DOC) Board Room (#322) in the Tyson Building (Augusta Mental Health Institute), 25 Tyson Drive, Augusta, ME 04330 – Tuesday, March 31, 2026, 9-11:30 a.m.
York and Cumberland Counties – People’s Choice Credit Union, 23 Industrial Park Road, Saco, ME 04072 – Tuesday, April 14, 2026, 9:30 a.m.-noon
Penobscot and Piscataquis Counties – Wings for Children and Families, 900 Hammond Street #915, Bangor, ME 04401 – Thursday, April 30, 2026, 8:05-10:30 a.m.
Washington and Hancock Counties – Maine Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS), 38 Prescott Drive, Machias, ME 04654 – Thursday, April 30, 2026, 1-3:30 p.m.
Aroostook County – Maine Department of Labor (DOL), 66 Spruce Street, Presque Isle, ME 04769 – Friday, May 1, 2026, 9-11:30 a.m.

Registration for the McKinney-Vento Spring 2026 Regional Meetings is required, and participation is free. This event is appropriate for school staff or community-based organizations that support families and students experiencing housing instability or that are involved in the child welfare system. It is intended to be a space for connection and collaboration.

You may learn more and register here. Additionally, you may download a related flyer here (PDF).

With questions, please contact Susan Lieberman, consulting Homeless Children and Youth Specialist, at susan.lieberman88@gmail.com or Signe Lynch, Maine DOE McKinney-Vento Homeless Education Specialist, at signe.lynch@maine.gov.

Maine DOE Update – March 6, 2026

From the Maine Department of Education

News & Updates

Maine School Transportation Safety Commission Now Accepting Public Comment

The work of the Maine School Transportation Safety Commission is officially underway following the first meeting of the Commission on Friday, February 27, 2026. | More

Maine DOE Seeks Peer Reviewers for 21st Century Community Learning Centers Grant Applications

The Maine Department of Education (DOE) is now accepting applications from individuals interested in learning more about the competitive grant process. Selected applicants will be trained to serve as peer reviewers who assist the Maine DOE in reviewing, assessing, and scoring competitive grant proposals for the 21st Century Community Learning Centers (CCLC) program. | More

Maine DOE Launches the Seal of Climate Literacy High School Diploma Endorsement

The Maine Department of Education (DOE) is excited to announce the Maine Seal of Climate Literacy! This high school diploma endorsement prepares and empowers students with environmental literacy, traditional ecological knowledge, and green workforce skills to rise to the challenge of climate change for the future of Maine’s communities, workforce, and natural environment. | More

Annual Education Gala Celebrates Maine State and County Teachers of the Year

Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED) Assessments Now Available Through Maine School Safety Center

Since 2022, Maine has invested a historic $7.1 million to expand Extended Learning Opportunities (ELO) programming throughout the state. ELOs provide schools with opportunities to create meaningful connections with employers statewide. In turn, they help young people better understand career opportunities and acquire valuable foundational career skills, including initiative, adaptability, problem-solving, teamwork, and communication. | More

Resources and Guidance for Developing a School-Based Condom Availability Program

The Maine Department of Education (DOE) is sharing resources and guidance to support school administrative units (SAUs) that are interested in establishing a school-based condom availability program. | More

Reminder: Later Secondary School Start Time Planning Grant; Now Live in Vendor Self-Service (VSS)

SAUs may access the Request for Applications (RFA) through the State of Maine’s Vendor Self-Service System (VSS). All applications and questions related to this RFA must be submitted through VSS. The Maine DOE strongly encourages SAUs to confirm that they can access VSS well in advance of the application deadline of March 30, 2026. (Please refer to this priority notice for additional information and training materials related to VSS.) | More

Deadline Extended for T-Shirt Design to Represent the 2026 MLTI Student Conference – ‘Full STEAM Ahead’

The Maine Learning Technology Initiative (MLTI), an initiative of the Maine Department of Education (DOE) Office of Teaching and Learning, is excited to announce a T-shirt design competition for the 23rd annual MLTI Student Conference, to be held on May 21, 2026. The conference theme this year is “Full STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) Ahead.” | More

Maine Schools Sharing Success Stories

STEM Night at Mt. Ararat High School Showcases the Power of Community Outreach and Extended Learning Opportunities

Community outreach and extended learning coordinators wear many hats inside a school. This role often sits at the intersection of academics, career readiness, partnerships, and student support, connecting what happens inside the building to real-world opportunities outside of it. | More

Building the Skilled Workforce: Women in the Trades from High School to Adult Education

In Maine, women from high school to adulthood are charting their paths into the state’s skilled trades workforce. By participating in hands-on experiences through career and technical education (CTE), Extended Learning Opportunities (ELO), and adult education, these students are mastering equipment, learning industry standards, and engaging in real-world problem-solving, gaining practical experience and marketable skills aligned with high-demand industries. | More

Submit good news to the Maine Department of Education here.

Professional Learning/Training Opportunities

Learning Tours in Brewer and Kennebunk to Highlight Student-Centered Programming in Action

The Maine Department of Education (DOE) will facilitate two Innovative Research and Design (IR&D) Learning Tours this spring—one at RSU 21 (Kennebunk, Kennebunkport, and Arundel) on April 7, 2026, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., and one at Brewer High School on April 28, 2026, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Educators interested in participating in either tour are encouraged to register to attend. | More

Roundtable Workshop on March 18 for School Leaders, Staff, and Educators: Building a Sustainable Future for Maine Schools

On Wednesday, March 18, 2026, the Maine Department of Education (DOE) Green Schools Program, in partnership with Solen Works and Northeastern’s Roux Institute ClimateTech Incubator, will host a “Building a Sustainable Future for Maine Schools” roundtable workshop. The purpose of this workshop is to co-develop a practical, customizable Sustainability Action Plan template for Maine school administrative units (SAUs). | More

Reminder: Register for the Second Annual Maine Inclusive Education Conference on April 8

Registration is now open for the second annual Maine Inclusive Education Conference, scheduled for Wednesday, April 8, 2026, at the Augusta Civic Center. | More

Registration Open for the 2026 Spring Alternative Education Association Conference

The Alternative Education Association (AEA) of Maine has announced that its spring conference will be held on Friday, March 27, 2026, at Colby College in Waterville from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m., with the theme “Building Resilience for All.” | More

Maine Science Teachers Association to Host “Science for All” Conference on May 1 and 2

The Maine Science Teachers Association will host its biannual conference, “Science for All,” the weekend of May 1 and 2, 2026, bringing together science educators from across the state for collaboration, professional learning, and inspiration. | More

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

Career/Project Opportunities:

Find education-related jobs in Maine.

Annual Education Gala Celebrates Maine State and County Teachers of the Year

On the evening of February 28, 2026, leaders from across Maine’s education community gathered at the Samoset Resort in Rockport to celebrate the dedication and impact of exceptional educators statewide. The 12th annual Education Gala honored Maine’s 2025 County Teachers of the Year, bringing together their families, colleagues, school and district administrators, community partners, state leaders, and corporate sponsors for an evening of recognition and gratitude. The event also celebrated Becky Hallowell, 2025 Maine Teacher of the Year, for her outstanding year representing Maine educators and formally introduced Julia Edwards, 2026 Maine Teacher of the Year, as she begins her year of service championing teachers and students across the state.

Gift bags given to the 2025 Maine Teachers of the Year

Members of the 2024 Maine County Teacher of the Year cohort

Sarah Marshall (CTOY 2025), and Maggie Campbell (CTOY 2025)

Melissa O'Neal-Low; Maine DOE and Cedar Worster, Maine State Board of Education

Members of the 2023 Maine County Teacher of the Year cohort.

A highlight of the evening was remarks from Maine Department of Education (DOE) Commissioner Pender Makin, who shared a congratulatory letter from Governor Janet Mills with Edwards, a choral music teacher at Bruce Whittier Middle School and Poland Regional High School. Edwards also received several traditional and celebratory gifts, including a personalized vanity license plate from Maine Secretary of State Shanna Bellows, an iPad from the Association of Computer Technology Educators of Maine (ACTEM), and a special surprise—tickets to see musician Jacob Collier, courtesy of StubHub.

A representative from StubHub gives Edwards tickets to see musician Jacob Collier.

The semifinalists and finalists for 2026 Maine Teacher of the Year received recognition at the gala, as well, as attendees celebrated their tireless commitment to fostering student growth and achievement. Members of the Maine County and State Teachers of the Year Association (MCSTOYA) were in attendance to welcome the 2025 Maine County Teacher of the Year cohort and celebrate the enduring legacy of teacher leadership in Maine.

The 2025 Maine County Teachers of the Year

Throughout the evening, sponsors, including Unum, Maine Spirits, Maine State Lottery, StubHub, and Geiger reflected on the vital role educators play in strengthening communities and shaping the future. Guests enjoyed dinner and time to connect with mentors, colleagues, and friends while celebrating the powerful impact of Maine teachers.

The Maine Teacher of the Year program is administered by Educate Maine, a business-led education advocacy organization, in partnership with the Maine DOE, Maine State Board of Education, and MCSTOYA.

A special thank-you goes to the 2026 Education Gala sponsors:

Lead Sponsors: Unum, Maine Spirits, Geiger
Golden Apple: Energy Efficient Investments, Inc.
County Sponsors: Energy Efficient Investments, Inc., Moody’s Collision Centers, University of New England Online, Dead River Company, MMG Insurance, University of Maine College of Education and Human Development
Supporters: Thomas College, Martin’s Point Health Care
In Kind: Skillins Greenhouses, ACTEM, Maine DOE, Thomas College, Geiger, Bangor Savings Bank, Belted Cow Company, Haven’s Candies, D.Cole Jewelers, Sea Bags, Dead River Company, Portland Ovations, Allagash Brewing Company, StubHub, Carrabassett Coffee Company, Après, University of Maine Presque Isle, University of Maine Augusta, Hotel Ursa, Coffee By Design, Collins Center for the Arts, and Live + Work in Maine

Learning Tours in Brewer and Kennebunk to Highlight Student-Centered Programming in Action

Both of the programs to be featured on these Learning Tours were developed through the Maine DOE Rethinking Responsive Education Ventures (RREV) initiative, the result of a $16.9 million grant from the U.S. Department of Education in 2020. This initiative challenged schools to think outside the box to offer programs that provide real-world connections, as well as student choice, voice, and autonomy; engaging, interactive instruction; supportive relationships and belonging; and clear expectations, along with meaningful feedback.

These student-centered RREV pilot programs have successfully implemented innovative practices through different approaches. RSU 21 created an alternative, experiential, community-based learning environment that offers project-based and integrated learning, both at school and in the community. Brewer High School created an online environment that offers agency and autonomy, while also integrating it into real-world experiences through Extended Learning Opportunities (ELOs).

These Learning Tours are a great opportunity for educators to generate ideas for changes in their own settings to better meet students’ needs! Middle or high school teachers interested in learning more about the design, impacts, and possibilities of either program, may register here for the tours. Space is limited to 10 participants at each site.

With questions, please contact Maine DOE Innovative Research and Design Director Elaine Bartley at Elaine.Bartley@Maine.gov.

Roundtable Workshop on March 18 for School Leaders, Staff, and Educators: Building a Sustainable Future for Maine Schools

On Wednesday, March 18, 2026, the Maine Department of Education (DOE) Green Schools Program, in partnership with Solen Works and Northeastern’s Roux Institute ClimateTech Incubator, will host a “Building a Sustainable Future for Maine Schools” roundtable workshop. The purpose of this workshop is to co-develop a practical, customizable Sustainability Action Plan template for Maine school administrative units (SAUs).

School leaders and educators are encouraged to register to attend to share best-practice sustainability plans and explore how to customize plans to the specific needs of each SAU. The goal is to create a shared, adaptable tool that helps SAUs strengthen budget development, as it pertains to sustainability; maintain momentum through leadership transitions; reduce operating costs; and support healthier learning environments across Maine.

This event will take place in person on March 18 from 1-5 p.m. at the Roux Institute in Portland (100 Fore Street, Portland, ME 04101). Attendance is free but limited to 32 participants. Those who are interested should register for the event here.

The agenda for the workshop is as follows:

1-2 p.m. – Introductions and Presentations
2-3 p.m. – Breakout Working Groups
3-4 p.m. – Recap, Facilitated Discussion, Next Steps
4-5 p.m. – Snacks and Networking

With questions, please visit this webpage to contact the event host.

Maine DOE Launches the Seal of Climate Literacy High School Diploma Endorsement

The Maine Department of Education (DOE) is excited to announce the Maine Seal of Climate Literacy! This high school diploma endorsement prepares and empowers students with environmental literacy, traditional ecological knowledge, and green workforce skills to rise to the challenge of climate change for the future of Maine’s communities, workforce, and natural environment.

The Maine Seal of Climate Literacy is achieved by meeting specific criteria (listed below), as determined by each school administrative unit (SAU). It was designed based on an existing model in Colorado. Maine will be the second state in the nation to offer a Seal of Climate Literacy.

The Maine Seal of Climate Literacy pilot phase will launch in March 2026. Participating schools and students will test the design as it is currently written and provide feedback. The program will officially launch statewide in September for the 2026-2027 school year. To get involved now or next year and stay up to date with program developments, please complete this survey.

Criteria to earn the Maine Seal of Climate Literacy are as follows:

Students must participate in any two high school courses with a focus on climate and environmental literacy concepts and standards.

This may include, but is not limited to, earth science, Wabanaki studies, environmental-focused humanities, biology, or environmental studies. At least one course must include strong elements of traditional ecological knowledge. SAUs should work with students to determine what will qualify.
Students must complete an experiential project that demonstrates and publicly communicates their understanding of environmental literacy, green career exploration, and/or place-based climate action.

This project can range from a school compost campaign to engagement with local public policy, to data collection with community organizations, to green job exploration—and anything in between. SAUs should work with students to determine what will qualify.

SAUs are responsible for conferring the Maine Seal of Climate Literacy and should determine what courses, standards, and experiential projects will meet the criteria. The Maine DOE is available to support SAUs with resources, communications, and celebration of student achievement. SAUs and their students are encouraged to partner with community-based nonprofit organizations, local businesses, and higher education institutions.

With questions about the Maine Seal of Climate Literacy, please contact Maine DOE Climate Education Specialist Teddy Lyman at theodore.lyman@maine.gov.