Celebrating Excellence in Education: Honoring Maine’s Outstanding Teachers

(Pictured: Commissioner Makin poses with all of the awardees during the ceremony)

The 2025 Maine Department of Education (DOE) Annual Summit on August 5 and 6 featured a moving celebration of teacher excellence, honoring educators who embody the very best of teaching and leadership. Colleagues, leaders, and supporters from across the state gathered to recognize and celebrate recipients of the Maine History Teacher of the Year, the Milken Educator Award, and the Presidential Awards for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching (PAEMST).

2025 Maine History Teacher of the Year

Sarah Campbell, a social studies teacher at Brunswick High School, was named the 2025 Maine History Teacher of the Year in a heartfelt presentation by her former student, Jacquelyn Taylor. Campbell was recognized for her exceptional ability to bring history to life, sparking curiosity, critical thinking, and civic engagement in her students. Her dedication to historical inquiry has left a lasting impact not only on her students but also on the broader educational community.

2025 Milken Educator Award Recipient

Micah Depper, a seventh-grade science teacher at Bath Middle School, was honored with the prestigious 2025 Milken Educator obelisk presented by RSU 1 Assistant Superintendent Katie Joseph. Known as the “Oscars of Teaching,” the Milken Educator Award highlights early- to mid-career educators who are making extraordinary contributions to the field. Depper’s innovative teaching, leadership in curriculum development, and unwavering commitment to student success set him apart as an educator of distinction and a role model for peers statewide.

PAEMST Finalists and Awardees

The Presidential Awards for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching (PAEMST) are the nation’s highest honors for K-12 STEM educators. This year’s ceremony celebrated both state finalists and past awardees whose expertise continues to shape the future of mathematics and science education in Maine.

2025 PAEMST State Finalists – Secondary Science:

Samantha Poll, science teacher at Samuel L. Wagner Middle School, presented by Amanda Grove

Elizabeth (Betsy) Trenckmann, science teacher at Hermon High School, presented by Beth ByersSmall

PAEMST State Awardees:

2021 Secondary Mathematics: Lora Levenseler, Camden Hills Regional High School, presented by Ken Vencil

2022 Elementary Science: Katherine (Katie) Coppens, Falmouth Middle School, presented by Jenn Page

2022 Elementary Mathematics: Katelyinne (Kate) Green, formerly of Ella Lewis School (unable to attend)

2023 Secondary Science: Diana Allen, Sanford Middle School, presented by Tonya Prentice

2023 Secondary Mathematics: Elizabeth (Beth) Hayden, Bonny Eagle High School (unable to attend)

Each honoree was recognized for their excellence in STEM teaching and for their dedication to equity, student empowerment, and lifelong learning.

This ceremony was a powerful reminder of the profound impact that educators have on students, communities, and the future of Maine. Through heartfelt tributes and well-deserved recognition, the event reaffirmed the Maine DOE’s commitment to honoring teachers who go above and beyond every day.

Congratulations to this year’s honorees—your passion and dedication continue to inspire Maine’s next generation of learners.

Alfred Elementary Earns National RAMP Recognition for Exemplary Counseling Program

(Pictured: Alfred Elementary School Counselor Jackie Chaplin)

Alfred Elementary School is celebrating a major achievement after being recognized at the American School Counselor Association’s (ASCA) annual conference in July. The school has earned the RAMP (Recognized ASCA Model Program) designation—an honor awarded to schools with outstanding, comprehensive, and data-driven counseling programs.

Through the leadership of school counselor Jackie Chaplin, Alfred Elementary has established a strong, supportive counseling framework that aligns both district goals and student needs. Jackie, who began at Alfred in 2005 and is now entering her 21st year, has played a critical role in shaping the school’s counseling efforts. Her leadership helped create a Multi-Tiered System of Support for Behavior (MTSS-B), integrating clear Tier I, II, and III behavioral supports that focus on promoting a kind, respectful, responsible, and safe school community.

This recognition, awarded to 1,300 schools nationwide and only five in Maine over the past 21 years, acknowledges Alfred Elementary’s success in delivering a school counseling program that uses data-based decision-making, provides both direct and indirect services to students, and leads to improved academic performance, attendance, and behavior.

Key components that contributed to the school’s RAMP designation include structured systems for analyzing behavioral data, like the Office Disciplinary Referral (ODR) and Request for Assistance (RFA) forms. These tools help staff track trends and make informed decisions about schoolwide and individual student needs. Positive Behavioral Supports at the Tier I level—such as Model Mustangs, Golden Tickets, Student of the Month recognitions, and a new incentive involving a book vending machine—are carefully tracked to celebrate student success and promote positive behavior. Universal screeners like the Student Risk Screening Scale (SRSS), completed by teachers three times a year, help identify students who may need additional support and lead to targeted Tier II or Tier III intervention plans based on measurable goals.

Students also benefit from weekly classroom lessons based on the 2nd Step Curriculum. These lessons are often adapted to reflect current schoolwide trends, such as addressing physical aggression if data shows an uptick in related referrals. Small group sessions, peer helper leadership opportunities for fifth graders, and consistent attendance tracking round out a comprehensive system that’s fully embedded into the school’s culture.

This was Alfred Elementary’s first time applying for RAMP recognition. The application followed Chaplin’s earlier achievement of being named Maine’s School Counselor of the Year, representing a meaningful professional goal that closely aligned with the school’s mission. With the designation now secured, Alfred Elementary will hold the RAMP title for the next five years before needing to reapply.

Other Maine schools recognized at this year’s ASCA conference included George B. Weatherbee School, which received the award for the second time, and Hall-Dale Elementary School, which earned the designation in 2023.

Alfred Elementary’s RAMP recognition stands as a powerful testament to the school’s commitment to fostering academic growth, social-emotional development, and a positive, inclusive school climate—one data point at a time.

This story was written in collaboration with Alfred Elementary School. To submit a good news story to the Maine DOE, please fill out the good news submission form.

Recognize Your Outstanding School Staff: RISE Award Now Accepting Nominations

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 Recognizing Inspirational School Employees (RISE) Award. Anyone can nominate. The deadline to submit a nomination is October 15, 2025.

In collaboration with Maine Governor Janet T. Mills and the U.S. Department of Education, Maine DOE is now accepting nominations for the prestigious 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) Leadership and commitment: Emphasizes the nominee’s ability to inspire others, take initiative, and demonstrate a strong dedication to their role and school mission.

(D) 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 Department of Education will submit 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, 2025.

Nominate today by clicking here.

For further information or questions, please reach out to Maine DOE Educator Excellence, Recruitment and Retention Coordinator Christina O’Neal at christina.l.oneal@maine.gov.

MEDIA RELEASE: Maine DOE, Educate Maine Announce 2026 Maine Teacher of the Year Semifinalists

Eight of the 2025 Maine County Teachers of the Year continue to be in the running for 2026 Maine State Teacher of the Year.

Augusta, MAINE — Eight exceptional Maine educators are state semifinalists for 2026 Maine Teacher of the Year. As members of the 2025 Maine County Teacher of the Year cohort, they embody the dedication, innovation, and leadership in the classroom synonymous with this recognition. These educators serve as ambassadors for their students, colleagues, and school communities, celebrating and elevating the entire teaching profession.

The semifinalists for 2026 Maine Teacher of the Year are:

Julia Edwards
2025 Androscoggin County Teacher of the Year
Choral Music Teacher
Poland Regional High School, RSU 16

Monica Malcomson
2025 Cumberland County Teacher of the Year
Second Grade Teacher
Frank I. Brown Elementary School, South Portland School Department

Annie Goodwin
2026 Hancock County Teacher of the Year
Kindergarten Teacher
Dedham Elementary School, AOS 47

Melissa Goeke
2025 Knox County Teacher of the Year
Fifth Grade Teacher
Hope Elementary School, School Union 69

Bridget Wright
2025 Lincoln County Teacher of the Year
English Teacher
Lincoln Academy

Benjamin Johnson
2025 Penobscot County Teacher of the Year
Latin Teacher
Hampden Academy, RSU 22

Dawn Lee
2025 Sagadahoc County Teacher of the Year
School Library/Media, Unified Literacy Teacher
Morse High School, RSU 1

Amanda Blunda
2025 York County Teacher of the Year
Fourth/Fifth Grade Experiential Classroom Teacher
Buxton Center Elementary School, MSAD 6

The selection process for the Maine Teacher of the Year Program 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, as a result of their exemplary service in education and commitment to their students. Candidates first participated in the county selection process, where a distinguished panel of teachers, principals, business leaders, and community members chose them as 2025 Maine County Teachers of the Year from among hundreds of nominees. In May, the members of this cohort embarked on the Maine State Teacher of the Year selection process, showcasing their instructional practices through a classroom video and written reflection.

In the next phase of the selection process, the eight semifinalists will deliver keynote speeches, submit professional portfolios, and participate in an expert panel discussion about educational equity, teacher leadership, and education policy.

“The Maine Teacher of the Year Program provides an essential opportunity to highlight the hard, and often underrecognized, work that Maine educators put into their classrooms every single day,” Pender Makin, Commissioner of the Maine Department of Education, said. “Congratulations to the eight 2026 Maine Teacher of the Year semifinalists on this esteemed and well-earned recognition. Your commitment to your students, communities, and the teaching profession in Maine is commendable.”

“It is an honor to recognize these exemplary educators, whose passion and commitment truly represent the best of Maine’s education community,” Jason Judd, Ed.D., Executive Director of Educate Maine, said. “Their dedication to student success, to innovation in the classroom, and to preparing the next generation of Maine leaders is truly an inspiration. We are excited to work with this cohort in the next phase of the selection process for the 2026 Maine Teacher of the Year.”

The state finalists will be announced in September, and the 2026 Maine Teacher of the Year will be revealed in October. The 2026 Maine Teacher of the Year will represent Maine in the National Teacher of the Year Program.

The Maine Teacher of the Year Program is administered by Educate Maine through a unique partnership with the Maine Department of Education, with support from the Maine County and State Teachers of the Year Association (MCSTOYA) and the Maine State Board of Education. Funding for this program is generously provided by Bangor Savings Bank, Unum, Geiger, Hannaford Supermarkets, Maine State Lottery, and the Silvernail Family.

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.

Maine Educational Leaders Honored for Advancing Academics, Career Pathways, and Public Education

Pictured: Craig Larrabee, President, Jobs for Maine Graduates (JMG), speaking to the audience after receiving the 2025 Distinguished Service to Education Award.

The Maine School Superintendents Association (MSSA) recently recognized five outstanding educational leaders during the Maine Department of Education’s annual Commissioner’s Conference, held June 23 and 24 in Bar Harbor.

Presented annually, the Outstanding Leadership Awards and the Distinguished Service to Education Award celebrate superintendents and educational leaders who demonstrate exceptional dedication, innovation, and leadership in supporting Maine’s students and schools.

“These awards highlight the truly transformative work of educational leaders across Maine,” MSSA Executive Director Eileen King said. “Their leadership is directly leading to better outcomes for students—safer schools, improved academics, and stronger pathways to meaningful careers. These honorees represent just a few of the many ways our superintendents, staff, and communities are working together to strengthen public education.”

2025 Outstanding Leadership Award Recipients

Heather Manchester, Superintendent, MSAD 17
Nominated by Western Maine Superintendents
Manchester has emerged as a powerful advocate on legislative issues and a champion of outdoor learning. Through partnerships with local nonprofits such as Healthy Oxford Hills and the Western Foothills Land Trust, she has expanded meaningful outdoor learning opportunities across her district. Her transparent, compassionate, and community-centered leadership style has earned her deep trust and respect.

**Left to right:** Eileen King, MSSA Executive Director; Heather Manchester, Superintendent of MSAD 17; and Rhonda Sperrey, Superintendent of RSU 64 and MSSA President Elect.

Mike Felton, Superintendent, St. George Municipal School District
Nominated by Mid-Coast Region Superintendents
Felton has played a transformative role in revitalizing Career and Technical Education (CTE) in his district, raising more than $4 million to build a pre-K–12 CTE program after a 14-year regional gap. By working closely with business and community partners, he has reestablished CTE as a cornerstone of student opportunity. Later this year, Felton will transition from superintendent to serve as executive director of the St. George Community Development Corporation.

**Left to right:** Rhonda Sperrey, Superintendent of RSU 64 and MSSA President Elect, Mike Felton, Superintendent of St. George Municipal School District; and *Eileen King, MSSA Executive Director*.

Jeffrey Porter, Superintendent, MSAD 51
Nominated by Cumberland County Superintendents
Porter was honored for his steadfast commitment to protecting the rights and well-being of all students. Known for his calm, courageous, and professional leadership, he also serves as chair of MSSA’s Ethics Committee, offering thoughtful guidance to peers navigating complex challenges. His empathy and integrity are widely recognized across the education community.

**Left to right:** Eileen King, MSSA Executive Director; Jeffrey Porter, Superintendent of MSAD 51; and Rhonda Sperrey, Superintendent of RSU 64 and MSSA President Elect.

Jonathan Moody, Superintendent, MSAD 54
Nominated by Kennebec Valley Superintendents
Moody has been a driving force for both local and state-level educational improvement. As MSSA’s liaison to the State Board of Education, he has advocated for policy changes around student transfers and teacher certification. Within his district, Moody has led significant initiatives, including expanding the Somerset Career and Technical Center and developing a new elementary school with integrated early childhood programming for children as young as six weeks.

2025 Distinguished Service to Education Award

Craig Larrabee, President, Jobs for Maine Graduates (JMG)
Under Larrabee’s leadership, JMG has grown significantly, helping to boost graduation rates, build clear career pathways, and embed leadership and community service into students’ daily experiences. His work has made a measurable difference in the lives of thousands of Maine students.

The Maine School Management Association (MSMA) provided the information for this article. Read their press release here. For further information about the awards program, please contact MSMA at msma@msmaweb.com.

Back-to-School Grants Available for School Employees through LifeChanger of the Year

LifeChanger of the Year, an annual national recognition program for educators and school employees, is excited to announce a back-to-school grant opportunity for teachers, as they prepare for the 2025-2026 school year.

This summer, LifeChanger of the Year will be awarding 10 $500 Back-to-School Supply Grants to K-12 public, private, and charter school employees nationwide. These grants are designed to help cover the out-of-pocket costs that educators often spend on school supplies.

Applications are open from July 1 through August 15, 2025. All strong applicants will automatically be considered for the 2025-2026 LifeChanger of the Year program, with a chance to win up to $20,000 to split with their school.

Please fill out this form to apply for this grant opportunity.

LifeChanger of the Year is sponsored by the National Life Group and the National Life Group Foundation. Since its inception in 2006, the goal of the National Life Group Foundation is to do good in the communities in which we live and work by supporting nonprofit and educational organizations.

For questions about this grant opportunity, please contact the National Life Group.

Maine Curriculum Leaders Association Names Julie Riordan as 2025 Instructional Coach of the Year

The Maine Curriculum Leaders Association (MCLA) has announced that Julie Riordan is the 2025 Instructional Coach of the Year. Instructional coaches are instrumental in elevating teaching and learning across our state, and Riordan exemplifies the very best of this vital role.

As the Middle School Instructional Coach for the Westbrook School Department, Julie has made a profound and lasting impact on student learning and educator development.

Through her leadership, Julie has designed and implemented research-based reading and math intervention programs that are rooted in data-driven decision-making. Her work has resulted in measurable improvements in student outcomes and reflects her unwavering commitment to instructional excellence.

Julie is widely respected for her ability to build strong, trusting relationships with educators. She leads professional learning communities where teachers feel supported, inspired, and empowered to grow in their practice. Her collaborative work with administrators, curriculum teams, and school committee members has helped to create a cohesive and forward-thinking vision for the district.

In all that she does, Julie is a passionate advocate for equity, cultural responsiveness, and restorative practices, ensuring that every student has access to inclusive and effective learning environments. MCLA is thrilled to recognize Julie Riordan for her outstanding contributions and leadership.

MCLA is a statewide collaborative that focuses on high-quality learning and teaching for all Maine students. MCLA promotes equity and meaningful learning through research, information dissemination, advocacy, networking, and professional learning. To learn more about MCLA and its awards, visit the MCLA website or reach out to information@mainecla.org.

Maine Curriculum Leaders Association Names Shanna Crofton 2025 Curriculum Leader of The Year

The Maine Curriculum Leaders Association (MCLA) is proud to announce that Shanna Crofton, Director of Teaching and Learning for the Yarmouth School Department, has been named the 2025 Curriculum Leader of the Year.

Shanna is a visionary, student-centered leader whose commitment to educational excellence has had a lasting impact on students, educators, and the wider community. Her leadership has been instrumental in the creation and expansion of Yarmouth’s public pre-K programs, including the recent launch of a full-day offering—helping to ensure that the district’s youngest learners have access to high-quality early education. Under her guidance, the Yarmouth School Department has implemented a rigorous pre-K–12 curriculum review process that is both transparent and inclusive. By actively engaging teachers, administrators, and community members, Shanna has helped to build a shared vision for student learning that is rooted in collaboration and continuous improvement.

Beyond her district, Shanna is a regional leader and active voice in education. She contributes to broader educational efforts through her work with the Southern Maine Regional Service Center and serves on the Advisory Board for the University of Southern Maine’s Educational Leadership Program, helping to shape the next generation of school leaders.

MCLA is honored to recognize Shanna for her outstanding contributions to curriculum leadership, her unwavering dedication to students, and her commitment to fostering collaborative, high-quality educational practices. Congratulations, Shanna, on being named the 2025 MCLA Curriculum Leader of the Year!

MCLA is a statewide collaborative that focuses on high-quality learning and teaching for all Maine students. MCLA promotes equity and meaningful learning through research, information dissemination, advocacy, networking, and professional learning. To learn more about MCLA and its awards, visit: the MCLA website or reach out to information@mainecla.org.

Nominations Open for 2025 MAHPERD Teachers of the Year

Nominations are now open for the 2025 Maine Association for Health, Physical Education, Recreation, and Dance (MAHPERD) Teacher of the Year awards. Nominations are due April 30, 2025.

MAHPERD Teacher of the Year awards are presented to health education, physical education, and adapted physical education teachers who have demonstrated outstanding dedication to their students and profession. The following categories are eligible for consideration:

Elementary Physical Education teacher
Middle school Physical Education teacher
Secondary Physical Education teacher
Adapted Physical Education teacher
High school Health Education teacher

Many teachers throughout the State of Maine are deserving of this award, and MAHPERD would like to be able to recognize more of those individuals. The criteria to nominate can be found on the nomination form: MAHPERD Teacher of the Year Nomination Form.

Again, nominations are due April 30, 2025.

With questions, please contact Rick Kramer, Executive Director of MAHPERD, at executivedirector.mahperd@gmail.com.

The Maine Association for Health, Physical Education, Recreation and Dance (MAHPERD) is a nonprofit organization for professionals and students in related fields of health, physical education, recreation and dance. MAHPERD is dedicated to improving the quality of life for all Mainers by supporting and promoting effective educational practices, quality curriculum, instruction, and assessment in the areas of Health, Physical Education, Recreation, Dance, and related fields.

Week of the Young Child®: Friday Early Childhood Professional Spotlights

The Week of the Young Child® highlights the importance of early childhood education and the foundational role it plays in a child’s success. This week also serves as an opportunity to celebrate the early care and education professionals who nurture and support children and families during this critical stage of growth and development.

This year, the Maine Department of Education (DOE) is teaming up with the Maine Department of Health and Human Services Office of Child and Family Services – Early Care and Education Division to honor dedicated professionals who make a meaningful impact on young children and families.

Each day of the week during the Week of the Young Child, the Maine DOE will highlight early childhood professionals who have been nominated by their colleagues and the communities they serve.

Here are the Friday Early Childhood Professional Spotlights:

Rebekah Baumgartner, The Little Schoolhouse on Maine

“Being a director in an early childhood facility is incredibly rewarding and fulfilling,” Baumgartner said.

Robin Linscott, You N Me Nursery School at the Westbrook Regional Vocational Center

“It is exciting to encourage and mentor new teachers in the early childhood field,” Linscott said.

Rosemary Jordan, Little Log Cabin Montessori School

“It is humbling to know that the influence I have had on children and their families may last for years to come,” Jordan said.

Sage Coldwell, Winslow Elementary School

“What I love the most is the moment when my class of individuals, with all their differences and challenges, becomes a family,” Coldwell said

Sam Miller, Children’s House Montessori School

“I love working with young learners in the toddler program, as they are great teachers themselves,” Miller said.

Sandra Marshall, Love & Learn Child Care

“I love what I do because children are so full of adventure, love, and joy,” Marshall said.

Sara Carr, The Little Schoolhouse on Maine

“The first five years of a child’s life are filled with so many milestones, memories, laughter, and excitement, and I am honored to be a part of that,” Carr said.

Sara Moore, Roselyn North Academy

“To be a part of such a crucial time in a child’s life is so special,” Moore said.

Sarah Jamo, Minot Consolidated School

“Witnessing the pure joy, growth, and curiosity of our youngest children leaves me with a smile and inspires me to be a better educator,” Jamo said.

Sare Greenlaw, Educare Central Maine

“Being in a position to foster the social, emotional, physical, and academic growth of the youth in our communities is an absolute joy and privilege,” Greenlaw said.

Stacy Higgins, Educare Central Maine

“Early childhood education is so important to set our young people on a path to success,” Higgins said.

Star Lopresti, MSAD 6

“I love being a kindergarten teacher because I get to help students grow emotionally, socially, and academically,” Lopresti said.

Steva Feir-Scarpelli, Child Development Services

“I love the collaboration with classroom teachers and therapists on how to best support the children I work with,” Feir-Scarpelli said.

Sue Littlefield, Buchard A. Dunn School

“Being given the opportunity to have a shared learning experience with four-year-olds keeps me young at heart,” Littlefield said.

Suzen Hoffses, Milbridge Elementary School

“Seeing the looks of joy and hearing the sounds of excitement coming from my students when we engage in activities both inside and outside the classroom is why I love teaching pre-K,” Hoffses said.

Tammey White, Easton Elementary School

“It’s such a rewarding experience to be part of a child’s early growth and development,” White said.

Thania Centeno Wily Carrera, Mis Primeros Pasos My First Steps

“I love being able to make an impact in their lives and helping them grow and learn about the world around them,” Centeno Wily Carrera said.

Wanda Gamage-Wyman

“I have devoted my entire career of 38 years working with children and families because I thoroughly enjoy helping others,” Gamage-Wyman said.

Yaicha Provencher, Andwell Therapy & Early Learning Services

“I love being able to be an advocate, a support system, and a team member with families in order to give their children the best skills and education possible,” Provencher said.

Yesenia Lipski

“Yesenia devotes countless hours to creating magical spaces for learning in our pre-K program,” Lipski’s nominator said.

Renee Lancaster, Moose Alley Daycare – “I love working in early childhood because I get to make meaningful, memorable experiences for the families we serve,” Lancaster said.
Resa Jones, The Children’s Nursery School – “Resa’s calm presence and creative approach is evident as soon as you walk in the classroom,” Jones’ nominator said.
Sadie Burleigh, Millinocket KidsPeace – “Sadie is naturally calm and patient with our high-needs students,” Burleigh’s nominator said.
Sarah Croce, East End Community School – “I love being a part of the amazing growth and development that happens within a school year,” Croce said.
Sarah Martin, Sarah’s Busy Bees – “Watching the kids start as tiny kindergartners until they leave as middle schoolers has been a gift,” Martin said.
Shari Edgecomb – “She knows how to meet students where they are developmentally, celebrating students’ achievements and fostering a safe space where they feel compelled to learn,” Edgecomb’s nominator said.
Shelby Palmer – “Shelby goes above and beyond in every aspect of her day,” Palmer’s nominator said.
Shelby Riley, The Little Schoolhouse on Maine – “I have been in this field for 11 years and there isn’t a day that goes by that I question if I love my job,” Riley said.
Stacie Gray – “She’s been dedicated to her career for over 20 years and her level of nurturing, enthusiasm, and professionalism is unmatched in my opinion,” Gray’s nominator said.
Stella Duhaime – “I am nominating Stella Duhaime for her unwavering dedication and commitment to children and families,” Dauhaime’s nominator said.
Sue Blankenship – “She works closely with students and their teachers, building trusting relationships that allow for growth and continued development,” Blankenship’s nominator said.
Summer Lamprey, Windham Raymond School Aged Childcare – “I love getting to know each one of my kids on a personal level, and they do the same with me,” Lamprey said.
Susan Bell – “She has a heart of gold, welcoming everyone with open arms. She truly makes every child feel loved like they are her own, ” Bell’s nominator said.
Susan Hougaz McCormic, Children’s Odyssey – “Having the opportunity to provide meaningful learning experiences for my young students to help them develop the skills they will need to be successful in their education is what nourishes my love of teaching,” Hougaz McCormic said.
Tammy Osborne – “Her interactions with children, staff, and families all speak to her commitment to best practice, to the importance of relationships, and of the true joy she finds in teaching young children,” Osborne’s nominator said.
Terri Gerrish – “Her extensive experience at Head Start and now in the public pre-K classroom truly enriches this community’s educational environment,” Gerrish’s nominator said.
Tess Glanville, Ledgemere Preschool – “The environment that Tess has curated at Ledgemere Preschool is fantastic – Spanish, music, yoga, cooking, and visits from Audubon are all a part of their usual curriculum,” Glanville’s nominator said.
Theresa Fisk, Maine Roads to Quality Professional Development Network – “I have the privilege of witnessing the extraordinary work of our early care and education professionals throughout Maine,” Fisk said.
Tiffany Shaw, Buxton Center Elementary School – “There’s magic in watching young minds discover the world,” Shaw said.
Tyisha Longus – “Ms. Ty is a hardworking mother and has made all the difference in my experience with my daughter in a childcare setting,” Longus’ nominator said.
Wendy Cooper – “She sees what a child is interested in and grows that with the toys she puts out and the opportunities she creates and conversations she has with a child,” Cooper’s nominator said.