The Association of Computer Technology Educators of Maine (ACTEM) has named Keith Kelley of RSU 19 and Nicole Lesperance of RSU 9 as the recipients of the 2026 ACTEM ACHIEVE Award, recognizing their innovative approaches to using technology to support teaching and learning.
The ACHIEVE Award stands for “ACTEM Commends Highly Innovative Educators that Value Excellence.” The annual recognition celebrates Maine educators who demonstrate creativity, leadership, collaboration, and a commitment to empowering students and fellow educators through meaningful uses of technology.
Kelley and Lesperance were recognized in connection with the 2026 ACTEM Fall Conference, held Oct. 15–16 at the Augusta Civic Center. The conference brings together educators and technology leaders from across Maine to share ideas, develop skills, and explore ways to integrate technology into education.
Keith Kelley: Bringing Hands-On Technology Learning to Students
Kelley, an Integrated Technology Teacher at Nokomis Middle School in Newport, works with students in grades five through eight to combine technology education with hands-on design, construction, coding, and problem-solving.
Described as a “21st-century shop class,” Kelley’s program gives students opportunities to build, code, drill, sand, create, and collaborate. Projects involving skateboards, LEGO materials, 3D printing, and robot derbies help students develop technical skills while strengthening creativity, teamwork, perseverance, and problem-solving abilities.
Through these experiences, students learn more than how to use tools and technology. They put their ideas into action, work through challenges, and collaborate to create tangible projects.
Kelley’s nominator, Kern Kelley, highlighted the active, hands-on nature of the program, writing, “Keith’s students get their hands dirty and learn while they do it.”
Nicole Lesperance: Supporting Educators Through Technology Integration
Lesperance serves as the Technology Integration Specialist and Training Coordinator for RSU 9, based in the Farmington area. In this role, she supports educators in using technology effectively to enhance teaching and learning.
Her work includes planning the Summer Tech Institute, which brings educators from multiple school districts together to explore practical approaches to technology integration and learn from one another. Through these professional learning opportunities, Lesperance has helped extend her impact beyond her own district, supporting a broader community of educators.
Lesperance’s nominator, Laura Columbia, recognized her growth as an educational technology leader and her dedication to helping colleagues build their skills.
“Nicole is always looking for ways to help educators use technology more effectively to support teaching and learning,” Columbia shared in her nomination. “It has been wonderful to watch her grow into a leader who is making an impact well beyond her own district.”
The ACHIEVE Award highlights the many ways Maine educators use technology to create meaningful learning experiences for students and strengthen teaching practices across schools and districts.
Through hands-on classroom projects and professional learning opportunities, Kelley and Lesperance demonstrate how purposeful technology integration can foster student creativity, encourage collaboration, and support educators in continually developing their practice.
Information for this article was provided by ACTEM. To learn more about ACTEM and the ACHIEVE Award, visitwww.actem.org.To submit a good news story to the Maine DOE, please fill out thegood news submission form.
2027 Maine Teacher of the Year Gretchen Livingston is a Spanish teacher at Cony Middle and High School, Augusta School Department.
Augusta, MAINE—The Maine Department of Education (DOE) is excited to announce Augusta School Department Spanish teacher Gretchen Livingston as the 2027 Maine Teacher of the Year. On Tuesday, October 20, 2026, Livingston celebrated this award with fellow Augusta educators and students during a surprise ceremony in the Viles Auditorium at Cony Middle and High School.
“As the daughter of a longtime English teacher and as someone who raised five Maine public school students, I know firsthand the impact a teacher can have on a child’s future. Throughout her 25 years teaching middle and high school students in Maine, Gretchen Livingston has helped prepare countless students for bright futures. I congratulate Gretchen on the tremendous honor of being named Maine’s 2027 Teacher of the Year and thank her for her unwavering dedication to Maine’s students,” said Governor Mills.
Hundreds of educators across the state were nominated for the 2027 Maine Teacher of the Year process. In May, Livingston was selected as the 2026 Kennebec County Teacher of the Year, alongside 15 other County Teachers of the Year. In August, Livingston became one of four state finalists before she was ultimately named 2027 Maine Teacher of the Year.
“Language is a superpower. Language is communication. Language is identity and culture. Multilingualism is already part of our classrooms, our communities, and our state. The future I imagine for Maine is one where every student hears their language respected, every child learns the history of the first peoples of this land, multilingual students are recognized for the gifts they bring, and every graduate leaves school prepared to communicate across cultures. Language is not a barrier—it is an asset and a bridge. It builds empathy, opens doors, and helps us see how our differences make our schools, communities, and world stronger,” said Gretchen Livingston, 2027 Maine Teacher of the Year.
With 25 years of experience teaching Spanish at the middle and high school levels in Maine, Gretchen Livingston is dedicated to helping students develop language proficiency, intercultural understanding, and a deeper connection to the world around them.
She teaches Spanish Levels 1–6 for students in grades 8–12 at Cony Middle and High School in Augusta, where she has served as World Language Department chair since 2014 and coordinates the district’s Seal of Biliteracy program.
Livingston is recognized for her student-centered, culturally responsive approach to teaching, which incorporates authentic communication, project-based learning, and service-learning experiences.
Beyond the classroom, she is a leader in curriculum innovation and student engagement, having led eight service-learning trips to Guatemala in partnership with Safe Passage and Niños de Guatemala, with a ninth trip in the planning stages. She also founded the Cony Girls Lacrosse team in 2006 and continues to coach, reflecting her commitment to empowering students as confident communicators, compassionate global citizens, and engaged members of their communities.
“Gretchen Livingston is an inspiration to students,” Pender Makin, Commissioner of the Maine Department of Education, said. “We are proud to be able to elevate and share the incredible work she has done not only with language development but also with creating a community of sharing and connectedness.”
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.
As 2026 Maine Teacher of the Year, Livingston 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.
“Gretchen isn’t just a Teacher of the Year. Her influence has been felt across her entire career,” said Mike Tracy, superintendent of the Augusta School Department. “I taught alongside her 20 years ago, and she was this good then, so the honor comes as no surprise to those of us here in Augusta. Her positive impact on students and the whole school community has been evident for decades. We couldn’t be prouder of her!”
For more information about the Maine Teacher of the Year program, visit mainetoy.org.
We are excited to share the Dirigo Schools of Distinction (DSD) framework as a resource for Maine schools. DSD is intended to celebrate Maine schools that are making a meaningful difference for students, staff, and communities. DSD also offers a clear, supportive roadmap for schools and school administrative units (SAUs), as they consider where to focus time, energy, and resources to strengthen student outcomes.
Through extensive conversations and data collection across the state, the Measure What Matters initiative identified the conditions, practices, and outcomes that Mainers consistently value and have deemed the most important in their public schools. From this data, a report was published and used to create a framework called “Dirigo Schools of Distinction.” That framework is organized into seven pillars, each with a set of indicators that reflect the priorities voiced by Mainers. Across all pillars, DSD emphasizes a set of critical life skills identified through the Measure What Matters initiative and aligned closely with Maine’s Guiding Principles.
The framework will be a living document, informed by the DSD Advisory Committee (including DOE team members and experts from the field) who will make recommendations for updates and additions each spring. You can find more about this initiative along with a pdf version of the framework and a webform application here.
The DSD framework features seven pillars of excellence:
Excellence in Academics and Instructional Practices
Excellence in Community and Family Engagement
Excellence in Health and Wellness
Excellence in Culture and Climate
Excellence in Innovation and Innovative Practices
Excellence in School Leadership, Educators, and Staff
Excellence in Student Engagement
Each year, beginning in the 2026-2027 school year, schools may apply to be recognized for excellence in one of these DSD pillars. Those who opt to participate will complete an online application that contains the rubric for the pillar for which they are applying. The DSD Advisory Committee will review application submissions and select awardees.
To be eligible to apply for a DSD pillar of excellence, a school must first complete the Outcomes and Continuous Growth section of the DSD rubric. Many of the listed Measures are data points that are already collected for state reporting each year and those can be pre-filled to support ease of application. A school may choose to mark Outcomes if it has achieved the indicated Measure. If a school has not achieved the indicated Measure but has seen significant improvement in that area, it may choose to mark Continuous Growth and provide a brief supporting narrative. Elementary schools must achieve three Outcomes/Continuous Growth Measures to be eligible for a DSD recognition. Middle/high schools must achieve five.
For those seeking a DSD recognition, scoring will work as follows:
Each indicator within a pillar has an “evidence of practice” measure, based on the extent to which an indicator is in place. The applicant school self-assesses to determine this score, explaining the rationale in a brief narrative.
= emerging/partly in place/a practice or quality in some classrooms or teams
= mostly in place/a practice or quality across the school
= fully in place/a practice or quality that is generalized throughout the school
A “Priority Multiplier” is pre-filled in the rubric for each indicator to recognize that some indicators are more important or more complex, requiring more commitment and effort than others.
The evidence of practice measures are multiplied by their priority multipliers, generating a total for the pillar.
DSD Advisory Committee members will provide peer review of self-scoring through a collaborative process with applicant schools, and additional evidence may be included during this process.
To be recognized for a DSD pillar, a school must achieve at least 90% of the total possible score indicated on the rubric. (The total possible score for each pillar may vary slightly for elementary).
If you are interested in participating in the inaugural year of the DSD initiative, please complete this online application by January 30, 2027. Schools that are ultimately recognized for a DSD pillar will earn a DSD Badge of Excellence for that school year and be celebrated during a statewide event in the spring.
With questions or for more information, please contact Page Nichols, Maine DOE Chief Innovation Officer, at page.nichols@maine.gov.
We look forward to celebrating excellence in your schools!
Congratulations to Abby McCoy from Androscoggin County, Adrianne Shetenhelm from Cumberland County, Gretchen Livingston from Kennebec County, and Gina Welch from Oxford County.
Augusta, MAINE—Four Maine educators have been announced as state finalists for 2027 Maine Teacher of the Year. Abby McCoy, a Chemistry and Forensic Science Teacher at Lewiston High School; Adrianne Shetenhelm, an English and Alternative Education Teacher at Windham High School; Gretchen Livingston, a Spanish Teacher at Cony Middle and High School; and Gina Welch, a Pre-K Teacher at Crescent Park Elementary School, were selected from the 2026 Maine County Teachers of the Yearcohort to move forward in the Teacher of the Year process.
“Maine teachers are going above and beyond every day. They challenge and inspire their students with creative learning experiences, build relationships and partnerships with the families and communities they serve, and create opportunities for all students to excel,” said Maine Education Commissioner Pender Makin. “We are thrilled to celebrate the transformative impact teachers have on students and communities across Maine.”
One of the four state finalists will be named 2027 Maine Teacher of the Year, an honor bestowed annually upon one educator in Maine. This announcement will be made in October, after the final stages of the selection process are complete. Maine’s Teacher of the Year serves as an advocate for the teaching profession, as well as Maine schools and students, and represents Maine in the National Teacher of the Year Program.
Each County Teacher of the Year was nominated for this recognition because of their exemplary service in education and dedication to their students. A distinguished panel of teachers, principals, and members of the business community selected them from a pool of hundreds of other nominated educators. The Maine DOE, Educate Maine, the Maine State Board of Education, and the Maine County and State Teachers of the Year Association (MCSTOYA) announced the state finalists.
“We have wonderful teachers across Maine, and the talent and dedication of the four state finalists for Teacher of the Year are a reflection of that,” Educate Maine’s interim executive director Kate Howell said. “We are inspired by their example and their individual stories, and look forward to celebrating and supporting the finalists and the entire 2026 County Teacher of the Year cohort. As leaders in their profession, they make a meaningful difference in the lives of their students every day.”
“The 2027 Maine Teacher of the Year finalists exemplify the pinnacle of our profession—educators who ignite curiosity, cultivate a passion for learning, and profoundly impact the lives of students each day,” Maine State Board of Education Chair Paulette Bonneau said. “Their commitment and creativity reflect the resilience of Maine’s schools and the bright future ahead.”
“We have already learned so much from these four finalists and can’t wait for the rest of the state to get to know their incredible talent and expertise,” Maine County and State Teacher of the Year Association co-president Emilie Throckmorton said. “We look forward to folding them into the strong network of educators that we already work with and continuing to be inspired by them.”
More about the 2027 Maine Teacher of the Year state finalists:
Androscoggin Abigail McCoy Chemistry and Forensic Science Teacher Lewiston High School, Lewiston Public Schools
Abigail McCoy is a chemistry and forensic science teacher at Lewiston High School and the 2026 Androscoggin County Teacher of the Year. She holds a bachelor’s degree in Chemistry from Haverford College. McCoy creates engaging, hands-on learning experiences that encourage students to explore, question, and approach challenges with curiosity and confidence. She has advised Lewiston High School’s Black Student Union since students established the organization in 2019, helping create leadership opportunities and strengthen connections within the school community. McCoy also supports fellow educators as the science department’s content leader, helping teachers implement laboratory experiences and leading interdisciplinary professional development focused on making rigorous content more accessible to multilingual learners.
“To be a 2027 Maine Teacher of the Year finalist is a huge honor. I am humbled and grateful to be a part of this process and to learn so much from my fellow finalists,” McCoy said. “It’s also incredible to be a representative of Lewiston, a beautiful microcosm of Maine. It allows me to raise the voices of new Mainers of different races, religions, and cultures and bring them forward into our education system. I hope to use this platform to raise awareness of AI’s impact on students’ mental health and access to learning. It is critical that we understand the societal effects of AI, as I have seen it negatively affect students’ creativity and critical thinking, two essential things that keep us human.”
Cumberland Adrianne Shetenhelm English and Alternative Education Teacher Windham High School, RSU 14
Adrianne Shetenhelm has 19 years of experience in the English classroom, including 11 years leading Alternative Programming for Excellence (APEX) at Windham High School. She is the 2026 Cumberland County Teacher of the Year. Shetenhelm holds a bachelor’s degree in English and Secondary Education from Wheaton College and a master’s degree in Curriculum and Instruction from Boston College. She is currently pursuing a Certificate of Advanced Study in Educational Leadership at the University of Southern Maine. Through APEX, Shetenhelm provides self-paced, individualized learning pathways for students who may not thrive in conventional school structures, demonstrating her belief that rigor and flexibility can work together. She chairs her school’s Alternative Pathways Department, serves on the Extended Learning Opportunities Committee, mentors new teachers, and co-founded Student Exploratory Adventures, which connects students with local businesses and career opportunities.
“I am honored to be named a 2027 Maine Teacher of the Year State finalist, and it means the world to share this with the students, staff, and community of Windham High School who make my work possible,” Shetenhelm said. “As an alternative educator, I’ve built my career on the belief that trusting students and offering multiple pathways to success can be a lifeline. This recognition gives me a platform to spotlight that belief statewide. I hope to shine a light on the personalized, interdisciplinary learning happening in programs like APEX, where rigor and individualization aren’t a trade-off. More than anything, I want this moment to celebrate the dedicated Maine educators and their community partners who are quietly building those same pathways in their own schools.”
Kennebec Gretchen Livingston Spanish Teacher Cony Middle and High School, Augusta Schools
Gretchen Livingston is a Spanish teacher at Cony Middle and High School in Augusta and the 2026 Kennebec County Teacher of the Year. With 25 years of experience teaching Spanish in Maine, she teaches Spanish Levels 1–6 for students in grades 8–12 and has chaired the World Language Department since 2014. She also serves as the district’s Seal of Biliteracy coordinator. Livingston holds a bachelor’s degree in Spanish and Latin American Studies from Tufts University and a master’s degree in Teaching from the School for International Training. Her student-centered approach combines authentic communication, cultural connections, project-based learning, and service learning. She has led eight student service-learning trips to Guatemala and is planning a ninth. Livingston also founded the Cony Girls Lacrosse team in 2006 and continues to coach.
“Being a 2027 MTOY Finalist is humbling, inspiring, and motivating,” Livingston said. “I am humbled by the extraordinary work of educators across Maine and inspired by how educators in my district transform students’ lives. I am motivated to use this platform to elevate every voice and story, ensuring that everyone in our schools knows they belong. This recognition shines a light on the tremendous work happening in Augusta Public Schools and throughout Maine. At the heart of that work, regardless of age or subject, is language. Language is not a barrier—it is an asset and a bridge. It builds empathy, opens doors, and helps us see how our differences make our schools, communities, and world stronger.”
Gina Welch is a pre-kindergarten teacher at Crescent Park Elementary School in Bethel and the 2026 Oxford County Teacher of the Year. She holds a bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education from the University of Maine at Farmington and a master’s degree in Educational Studies from the University of New Hampshire. Welch brings more than two decades of early childhood experience, including 17 years with Early Head Start and Head Start, where she served as a home visitor, lead classroom teacher, and family engagement manager. When Crescent Park launched its first pre-kindergarten classroom, Welch became its founding teacher. Her play-based, child-centered approach emphasizes curiosity, hands-on learning, and strong relationships with students and families. She also serves as a mentor teacher, supporting educators in strengthening their practice and building meaningful family partnerships.
“Being named a 2027 Maine Teacher of the Year finalist is an incredible honor, and I am especially proud to shine a light on a school district that has continually encouraged and supported me in becoming the very best teacher I can be. I also see this recognition as a reflection of the outstanding colleagues and administrators who have supported, challenged, and inspired me throughout my career; this honor truly belongs to all of us,” Welch said. “I hope this platform allows me to highlight and elevate the power of relationships between teachers, students, families, and communities and the important role teachers can play as leaders in building those connections. I believe that when we intentionally strengthen those relationships, we create schools where every child and family feels that they belong, which in turn impacts student outcomes.”
For more information about the Maine Teacher of the Year program, and to see a list of Maine County Teachers of the Year and Maine State Teachers of the Year, click here.
The Maine Department of Education (DOE) invites students, friends, families, community members, educational organizations or associations, co-workers, and supervisors to nominate school employees for the RISE Award. Anyone can nominate!
In collaboration with Maine Governor Janet T. Mills and the U.S. Department of Education, Maine DOE is now accepting nominations for the prestigious Recognizing Inspirational School Employees (RISE) Award. This federal award, passed by Congress and overseen by the U.S. Department of Education, is intended to honor and promote classified school employees who provide exemplary service.
Through the RISE Award, we honor the often-unsung heroes whose work behind the scenes is essential to ensuring safe, supportive, and effective learning environments. Publicly recognizing their service strengthens morale, boosts motivation, and reaffirms our commitment to valuing all roles within the education workforce.
Who Is a Classified School Employee?
A classified school employee is a staff member employed by a state, local education agency, or nonprofit entity, who supports students in grades pre-K through grade-12 in any of the following occupational specialties:
Paraprofessionals / Educational Technicians
Clerical and Administrative Services
Transportation Services
Food and Nutrition Services
Custodial and Maintenance Services
Security Services
Health and Student Services
Technical Services
Skilled Trades
Examples include bus drivers, secretaries, cafeteria workers, school safety staff, health aides, technology staff, mechanics, crossing guards, and more.
Nominee Selection Criteria
Nominees must demonstrate excellence in the following five areas:
(A) Work performance: Reflects the nominee’s ability to fulfill their role with exceptional skill, dedication, and reliability
(B) School and community involvement: How nominees contribute to the broader school community, including volunteer efforts, participation in school activities, or engagement with families and local groups
(C) Local support (from co-workers, school administrators, community members, etc., who speak to the nominee’s exemplary work)
(D) Leadership and commitment: Emphasizes the nominee’s ability to inspire others, take initiative, and demonstrate a strong dedication to their role and school mission.
(E) Enhancement of classified school employees’ image in the community and schools: Highlights efforts to positively influence public perception and understanding of classified employees’ vital roles.
The Maine DOE will put forth up to two finalists to the U.S. Department of Education. The U.S. Department of Education will select one finalist from across the United States to inspire excellence among classified school employees around the nation.
How Do I Submit a Nomination?
The deadline to submit a nomination is October 15, 2026.
With questions or further information, please reach out to Maine DOE Teacher Excellence, Recruitment Retention Coordinator, Christina O’Neal at Christina.L.ONeal@maine.gov.
Since 2004, the Gilder Lehrman Institute’s History Teacher of the Year recognition program has recognized exceptional K-12 educators for their remarkable work in teaching American history. The program celebrates one outstanding teacher from each state, the District of Columbia, Department of Defense schools, and U.S. Territories and recognizes educators for their dedication, creativity, and effective use of primary sources. Nominees are recommended by students, colleagues, or school leaders and selected by state committees of historians and educators.
Olsen began her career in education in 2008 and has worked in Lewiston schools since 2011. She holds a bachelor’s degree in history, a master’s degree in teaching and learning, and a certificate of advanced study in literacy. She has also completed advanced graduate work in comprehensive literacy. Her extensive experience includes teaching Advanced Placement U.S. History, serving as a curriculum leader in Lewiston schools, working with the Maine Council for the Social Studies, and teaching as an adjunct instructor at the University of Southern Maine. Together, these experiences demonstrate her leadership in social studies education.
“Donna’s teaching philosophy is deeply rooted in an inquiry-based framework, a methodology that transforms her classroom from a place of passive learning into a dynamic laboratory of historical investigation,” Jonathan Radke, principal of Lewiston High School, shared.
“History teachers play an essential role in helping students understand the past, build critical thinking skills, and develop a deeper appreciation for the people and events that shaped our nation,” James G. Basker, president and CEO of the Gilder Lehrman Institute, said. “We are proud to recognize educators who go above and beyond to make history engaging, meaningful, and relevant in their classrooms.”
As the 2026 Maine History Teacher of the Year, Olsen will receive a $1,000 honorarium, a curated collection of American history books and educational materials from the Gilder Lehrman Institute, and recognition at a local ceremony. She will also join 52 other honorees as a finalist for the 2026 National History Teacher of the Year award.
The national winner will be announced this fall at a special ceremony at the Harvard Club of New York City and will receive a $10,000 grand prize. To learn more about the History Teacher of the Year award, or to view the full list of 2026 state honorees, visit the Gilder Lehrman Institute website.
Eight of the 16 total 2026 Maine County Teachers of the Year remain in the running for 2027 Maine State Teacher of the Year.
AUGUSTA, Maine—Eight exceptional educators from across the state are semifinalists for 2027 Maine Teacher of the Year. On Thursday, July 23, 2026, the Maine Department of Education (DOE) and Educate Maine officially announced these semifinalists, who will deliver keynote speeches, submit professional portfolios, and participate in an expert panel discussion about educational equity, teacher leadership, and education policy as part of the next phase of the Maine State Teacher of the Year selection process.
The semifinalists for 2027 Maine Teacher of the Year are:
Androscoggin Abigail (Reuscher) McCoy Chemistry and Forensic Science Teacher Lewiston High School, Lewiston Public Schools
Penobscot Marcy Soucy 4th and 5th Grade Math and Reading Teacher Fairmount School, Bangor School Department
Somerset Jeremy Bourque Digital Media Instructor Somerset Career and Technical Center, MSAD/RSU 54
Waldo Rachel Norgang 2nd and 3rd Grade Teacher Monroe Elementary School, RSU 3
As members of the 2026 Maine County Teacher of the Year cohort, these educators embody the dedication, innovation, and classroom leadership synonymous with this recognition. Throughout their year of service, they act as ambassadors for their students, colleagues, and school communities, celebrating and elevating the teaching profession as a whole.
“Congratulations to the 2027 Maine Teacher of the Year semifinalists on this impressive and well-deserved recognition,” Maine Education Commissioner Pender Makin said. “We are honored to champion you and your peers through this important program, which highlights the challenging and often underappreciated work of educators and the ways in which unwavering dedication in the classroom can be life-changing for students.”
“We are proud to celebrate and recognize these outstanding educators,” Jodi Mezzanotte, M.Ed., Director of Educator Engagement at Educate Maine, said. “Their dedication, leadership, and commitment to their students, the teaching profession, and colleagues across the state reflect the very best of public education in Maine.”
The selection process for Maine State Teacher of the Year is rigorous and designed by educators to offer candidates an opportunity to reflect on their instructional practice. In January, each candidate was nominated for this recognition by a member of their community. Candidates first participated in the county selection process, in which a distinguished panel of teachers, principals, business leaders, and community members chose them from among hundreds of nominees as 2026 Maine County Teachers of the Year. These 16 teachers began the selection process for 2027 Maine Teacher of the Year in May, showcasing their instructional practices through a classroom video and written reflection.
The Maine State Teacher of the Year finalists will be announced in the fall, with a grand reveal of the 2027 Maine Teacher of the Year in October. That teacher will represent Maine in the National Teacher of the Year program.
For more information about the Maine Teacher of the Year program, and to see a list of Maine County Teachers of the Year and Maine State Teachers of the Year, please click here.
The Maine Department of Education (DOE) is pleased to join the Alternative Education Association of Maine (AEA) in celebrating three outstanding educators as the recipients of the 2026 Alternative Education Educator of the Year Award. This annual award honors alternative educators who make a meaningful and lasting impact on students, create innovative learning opportunities, and demonstrate a strong commitment to advocating for students and the field of alternative education.
The 2026 Alternative Education Educator of the Year awardees are:
Kathleen (Kaity) Getchell The Learning Center at Frank Jewett – Bonny Eagle High School, MSAD 6
For 16 years, Kathleen “Kaity” Getchell has dedicated herself to supporting students through The Learning Center at Frank Jewett. She is recognized for meeting students where they are, developing specialized learning opportunities, and helping each student reach their full potential.
Getchell creates meaningful experiences for students through hands-on activities, trips, school-wide opportunities, and partnerships with school personnel to support postsecondary pathways. Her commitment extends beyond the classroom as she serves as a trusted family liaison, connecting students and families with resources, support, and encouragement when they need it most.
She has organized countless student experiences that provide opportunities for teamwork, personal growth, and the development of life skills. She also works closely with students to help them complete academic requirements, plan for graduation, and remain connected to their larger school community through events and milestones such as prom, yearbook, senior celebrations, and school activities.
Through her compassion, advocacy, and unwavering support, Getchell ensures students in alternative education feel valued, connected, and prepared for their futures.
Tristen Hinkle Marti Stevens Learning Center, MSAD 54
Tristen Hinkle has played an integral role in shaping and strengthening the alternative education program at the Marti Stevens Learning Center. She is celebrated for her deep commitment to student success and her ability to build strong relationships with students who need additional support and connection.
Hinkle creates engaging learning experiences by connecting students with community partners, guest speakers, field trips, and opportunities outside the classroom. She uses trauma-informed practices and approaches challenges with patience, compassion, and a solutions-focused mindset.
Beyond her work with students, Hinkle is a strong advocate for alternative education educators and actively supports her colleagues by sharing ideas, resources, and professional learning opportunities. Her dedication to continued growth and collaboration helps strengthen alternative education across Maine.
Heather Whitaker Gorham Middle School, Gorham School Department
Heather Whitaker exemplifies the dedication, compassion, and creativity that define outstanding alternative education. She approaches her work with joy and a deep commitment to helping students find success through meaningful relationships and innovative learning opportunities.
Whitaker connects students with local resources and community experiences, creating pathways for engagement and achievement. Her work serves as an example of how alternative education can empower students through personalized support and opportunities that meet their individual needs.
In addition to her work with students, Whitaker has contributed to education across Maine through her involvement with various organizations, including Educate Maine, where she has helped design and implement professional learning opportunities for educators statewide through the Teach Maine Center. She also supports and elevates educators through her role as the 2020 Maine Teacher of the Year and her ongoing work with the Maine County and State Teachers of the Year Association (MCSTOYA).
Through her leadership, advocacy, and commitment to students and educators, Whitaker demonstrates the impact one dedicated educator can have on an entire learning community.
The Maine DOE congratulates Kathleen Getchell, Tristen Hinkle, and Heather Whitaker on this well-deserved recognition and thanks them for their continued dedication to Maine students and the field of alternative education.
Content for this article was provided by the Alternative Education Association of Maine (AEA). To submit a good news story to the Maine DOE, please fill out the good news submission form.
The Maine Department of Education (DOE) is pleased to join the Maine Curriculum Leaders Association (MCLA) in recognizing two outstanding educational leaders whose dedication to teaching, learning, and student success has made a lasting impact in their schools and communities.
This year, the MCLA has named Dawn McLaughlin, Assistant Superintendent and Director of Teaching and Learning for School Union 93, as 2026 Maine Curriculum Leader of the Year and Alicia Sirois, Instructional Coach for MSAD 52, as 2026 Maine Instructional Coach of the Year.
Curriculum leaders and instructional coaches help ensure that educators have the resources, guidance, and professional learning opportunities necessary to meet the diverse needs of Maine students. These annual awards recognize those educational leaders who exemplify excellence in supporting curriculum, instruction, assessment, and professional growth, while fostering positive outcomes for educators and students across Maine, and who play critical roles in supporting high-quality teaching and learning throughout the state.
Maine Curriculum Leader of the Year Dawn McLaughlin, Assistant Superintendent and Director of Teaching and Learning for School Union 93
Dawn McLaughlin graduated from the University of Maine in 1991 with a bachelor’s degree in psychology. While she was searching for a job after graduation, her father encouraged her to explore a career in education. She accepted a position as an Educational Technician (Ed Tech) III at Center Drive School in Orrington and quickly discovered a passion for the field that would shape her career.
In 1992, McLaughlin moved to Stonington and joined Deer Isle-Stonington Elementary School as an Ed Tech III. Five years later, she became a middle-level language arts teacher, a role she held for 24 years. Committed to continuous professional growth, she earned a master’s degree in Curriculum, Instruction, and Assessment in December 2014.
In November 2015, McLaughlin was hired as the Curriculum Coordinator for School Union 93, where she supported curriculum development and instructional improvement across the district. In 2023, she was appointed Assistant Superintendent and Director of Teaching and Learning for School Union 93, continuing her commitment to advancing educational excellence for students and educators.
Maine Instructional Coach of the Year Alicia Sirois, Instructional Coach for MSAD 52
Alicia Sirois earned her undergraduate degree from Elmira College in New York, where she majored in English Literature and Secondary Education. She later earned a master’s degree in Literacy Education from the University of Southern Maine and holds a Literacy Coach Certificate through Maine Partnerships in Comprehensive Literacy at the University of Maine.
Sirois spent 13 years as an English teacher at Leavitt Area High School, where she fostered a love of reading, writing, and learning among her students. Four years ago, she transitioned into the role of Instructional Coach at Leavitt, where she now supports educators in strengthening instructional practices and improving student learning outcomes. Her work reflects a deep commitment to literacy, professional growth, and educational excellence.
The Maine DOE congratulates Dawn McLaughlin and Alicia Sirois on these well-deserved honors and thanks them for their leadership, service, and commitment to advancing educational excellence in Maine schools.
Content for this article was submitted by the Maine Curriculum Leaders Association.To submit a good news story to the Maine DOE, please fill out the good news submission form.
Ben Johnson, the 2025 Penobscot County Teacher of the Year and a finalist for 2026 Maine State Teacher of the Year, has earned national recognition from the American Classical League for his outstanding contributions to Latin education through innovative technology-based learning resources used by students and teachers around the world.
Johnson, who teaches Latin and AP Seminar to students in grades 9-12 at Hampden Academy, was recently honored with the 2026 Award for Excellence in Creating Technology-Based Educational Resources, presented by the American Classical League and sponsored by Xperitas. The award recognizes educators who create engaging digital content that makes classical studies more accessible and inspiring for learners.
At the center of Johnson’s work is his own platform, LatinTutorial.com, and the accompanying LatinTutorial YouTube channel, which has grown to more than 125,000 subscribers worldwide. Through hundreds of videos that he has written, filmed, and edited himself, Johnson helps students navigate Latin grammar, literature, and Roman culture, while supporting teachers who use the resources to supplement classroom instruction.
Johnson’s work became especially valuable during the COVID-19 pandemic, when educators and students turned to online learning resources. One nominator described his videos as “a sine quā nōn for Latin students and teachers across the globe.”
Johnson’s passion for making classical studies accessible extends beyond his video content. He has developed several digital learning tools, including Aeneid.co, a platform that helps students engage with Vergil’s Aeneid through guided passages, instructional videos, and learning supports. He also created Hexameter.co, another resource designed to help students master the complexities of Latin poetry. Together, his online tools are used by tens of thousands of learners worldwide.
While Johnson is recognized nationally for his educational innovation, his students remain at the center of his work. He is a strong advocate for giving students an active role in their education and believes that studying the ancient world helps learners better understand modern society. His teaching emphasizes inquiry, curiosity, and student voice, while thoughtfully integrating technology to enhance—not replace—the essential relationships between students and teachers.
Johnson’s leadership extends well beyond Hampden Academy. He serves as Instructional Team Leader for World Languages, is active in his local education association, and recently served on the AP Latin Development Committee, helping revise the national curriculum and assessment for Advanced Placement Latin courses. He also teaches Latin and classics courses at the University of Maine.
In addition, Johnson oversees both Hampden Academy and Maine’s Junior Classical Leagues, providing students with opportunities to connect with peers who share an interest in classical studies. He regularly leads educational trips to Italy and Greece, helping students experience firsthand the history, language, and cultures they study in the classroom.
Johnson holds a Bachelor of Arts in Classics and Biology from Cornell University and a master’s degree in Latin from the University of Florida.
As the 2025 Penobscot County Teacher of the Year and a finalist for 2026 Maine State Teacher of the Year, Johnson continues to demonstrate how Maine educators are leading the way in creating meaningful, innovative learning opportunities. Through his teaching, leadership, and widely used digital resources, he is helping students and educators around the world discover the enduring relevance of the classical world.
Content for this article was provided by the American Classical League. To submit a good news story to the Maine DOE, please fill out the good news submission form.
