The Maine Department of Education (DOE) invites school administrative units (SAUs) to nominate graduating high school seniors for the U.S. Presidential Scholars Program. Please consider nominating a student who demonstrates outstanding scholarship but who might not otherwise be nominated through the current SAT/ACT, Arts, or Career and Technical Education recognition processes. All high school seniors graduating between January and August of 2025, who are U.S. citizens or legal permanent residents, and who attend public, parochial, or independent schools, are eligible.
Please submit only ONE nomination per SAU by midnight on Thursday, November 21, 2024. You can access the application here.
A selection committee from the Maine DOE will review all nominations and select 10 female and 10 male students to advance to the national competition.
The final U.S. Presidential Scholars will be chosen by the Commission on Presidential Scholars. These students will receive an all-expenses-paid trip to Washington, D.C. in June and will be awarded the U.S. Presidential Scholars medallion at a ceremony hosted by the White House honoring their achievements. During their visit, scholars will have the opportunity to meet with influential national and international figures, including government officials, educators, authors, musicians, scientists, and other accomplished individuals.
For more information, please contact Beth Lambert, Chief Teaching and Learning Officer, at beth.lambert@maine.gov.
The CTE Excellence Awards recognize outstanding work and dedication in career and technical education in Maine. Awardees are selected for their exceptional contributions to the success of CTE through high-quality work, dedication to their students and their craft, and involvement within the CTE community.
CTE New Teacher of the Year
Adam Fernald
Waldo County Technical Center
Employability Skills Program and STRIVE Program Instructor
Adam Fernald’s commitment to fostering a dynamic and engaging learning environment has not gone unnoticed. Since joining Waldo County Technical Center, Fernald has demonstrated an unwavering passion for the program and a genuine care for student success. His ability to integrate real-world applications with academic concepts has enhanced students’ educational experiences and inspired them to pursue their goals confidently and enthusiastically.
The impact Fernald has made in such a short period of time is truly remarkable. His colleagues speak highly of his collaborative spirit, willingness to share best practices, and proactive professional development approach. Fernald’s impressive ability to adapt and thrive, continuously seeking new ways to improve and innovate, is a testament to his dedication and growth mindset.
“He was one of the best teachers I have ever had,” said one of Fernald’s students. “He is kind and respectful and would help anyone if needed. I will carry what I learned in this class for the rest of my schooling and adulthood. I feel he will help this class and many others.”
CTE Teacher of the Year
Roland Godbout
Oxford Hills Technical School (Region 11)
Law Enforcement Instructor
Roland Godbout joined Oxford Hills Technical School (OHTS) in November of 2021 to become a Law Enforcement instructor. As a retiree of the Lewiston Police Department, with nearly 30 years of service, Godbout stepped into a struggling program at OHTS, which had two instructors in fewer than two years. Further complicating Roland’s transition into teaching was the hybrid instruction model used at OHTS during the COVID-19 pandemic. Nevertheless, Godbout set to work, taking classes to earn his teaching certification. Before long, he had utilized the experienced staff at OHTS and his wealth of contacts in law enforcement to rebuild the program. During the 2022-2023 school year, students returned to full in-person instruction, and there was an uptick in student enrollment in the OHTS Law Enforcement program.
Moving into the next school year, student enrollment continued to expand, as students heard about the engaging activities available in the OHTS Law Enforcement classes. Students in the program were exposed to a multitude of experiences beyond the classroom, such as drills and practice scenarios with local police officers, visits to federal border patrol offices in Rangeley, opportunities to attend the Maine Police Academy graduation ceremonies, and interactive sessions with the law enforcement students and instructors at Central Maine Community College. Godbout also facilitated countless community service projects, ranging from traffic control to youth outreach.
CTE Lifetime Achievement Award
Tom Huston
Caribou Technology Center
Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) Instructor
As a state finalist for a past Career and Technical Education Teacher of the Year award, Tom Huston is among the best when it comes to excellence in CTE instruction. The Maine Department of Motor Vehicles has also commended his program for its exemplary standards, highlighting Huston’s effectiveness and dedication.
Few educators have made as profound an impact as Huston has over his 25 years in career and technical education. His career, marked by unparalleled dedication, innovation, and compassion, is a testament to the transformative power of teaching.
Tom’s CDL class has been a haven for students written off by traditional educational systems.
“Many of these students, facing expulsion or legal troubles, have found in [Tom Huston] a mentor who not only educates but also inspires,” said a spokesperson from Caribou Technology Center. “Through his guidance, students develop a thirst for knowledge and a renewed sense of purpose. Tom’s teaching goes beyond merely imparting technical skills; he equips his students with the confidence and motivation to succeed in life. His record speaks for itself—every student who has taken his course has successfully passed the State commercial driving test, a testament to his exceptional teaching abilities.”
CTE Administrator of the Year
Rob Callahan
Lewiston Regional Technology Center
CTE Director
Rob Callahan’s staff at Lewiston Regional Technical Center nominated him for the CTE Administrator of the Year Award—and did so with much excitement. They believe Rob is deserving of this recognition and were eager to help provide information and personal stories for the nomination. Thatquick response is a testament to Callahan’s leadership abilities and, more importantly, his leadership style, which is a direct result of the quality person that he is.
According to a former assistant director of the school, Callahan has a style of “servant leadership”, which means that as a leader, he always pitches in when something needs to be done; no job or person is beneath him; and he leads with compassion, character, and competence.
Callahan’s dedication to excellence, his ability to inspire and motivate students and staff, and his relentless pursuit of innovation have set a high standard for CTE leadership. His contributions have elevated his institution and had a profound impact on the broader educational community in Maine.
Rob Callahan has served as CTE Director at Lewiston Regional Technical Center for 17 years, during which he has significantly transformed the school’s CTE programs. His forward-thinking approach and dedication to student success have resulted in remarkable achievements.
Callahan is a passionate advocate for CTE at both the state and national levels. He has actively participated in policy discussions, contributed to educational forums, and shared best practices with fellow educators. His leadership has influenced positive changes in CTE policies and funding, benefiting students and educators across the state.
The Maine Department of Education (DOE) is pleased to announce that nominations are open for the 2024-2025 Presidential Awards for Excellence in Mathematics and Science (PAEMST). Every year, this award recognizes up to 110 exemplary teachers nationwide from grades 7-12. It is considered the nation’s highest honors for elementary and secondary science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) teaching.
The PAEMST program was established by Congress in 1983 and is administered by the National Science Foundation (NSF) on behalf of the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy (OSTP). Each PAEMST awardee receives a $10,000 prize, as well as a commemorative Presidential certificate.
Awardees join a group of more than 5,200 PAEMST alumni. They are also invited to an awards ceremony in Washington, D.C. and participate in meetings with STEM education, research, and policy leaders.
Please consider nominating an excellent grade 7-12 educator on the PAEMST website. You may also submit an application for yourself. The deadline to nominate/apply is Thursday, February 6, 2025.
For questions about the program or the nomination process, please contact paemst@nsf.gov or Maine’s PAEMST State Coordinator Michelle Mailhot at michele.r.mailhot@maine.gov.
Nominations are now open for the LifeChanger of the Year Award, a national program sponsored by the National Life Group. This award recognizes and rewards K-12 educators and school employees across the country. The goal is to celebrate those who are making a significant difference in students’ lives by exemplifying excellence, positive influence, and leadership.
Click here to learn more about the criteria and to submit a nomination. Anyone may make a nomination, either by name or anonymously.
The St. Croix Regional Technical Center in Calais is celebrating instructor Lauren Remington as a 2024 Marcia Lovell awardee.
Administered by Maine Roads to Quality, the Marcia Lovell Award honors eight outstanding early childhood practitioners from across Maine every year. Awardees embody innovation in early care and education through the significant contributions they make to the children, families, and communities that they serve.
Remington is a St. Croix Regional Technical Center instructor for the Early Childhood Occupations program. Over the past nine years, she has worked to rebuild this once-dormant program into a thriving Career and Technical Education (CTE) opportunity for high school students interested in working in early childhood care settings. Remington carefully trains students by giving them real-life learning experiences and responsibilities through the many connections she has garnered in the Washington County region.
“Lauren is a wonderful teacher and mentor to her students. She gets to know each of her students individually to provide them with the best educational experiences,” said St. Croix Regional Technical Center Director Stanley Sluzenski. “Lauren is also a great team member here at St. Croix Tech, always willing to share her expertise with the rest of the staff.”
You can learn more about Lauren Remington through this Q&A segment by Maine Roads to Quality, published in the August issue of the SHORTcuts newsletter.
What words of wisdom or advice would you give someone starting out in the field?
Some words of wisdom I would give someone starting out in the field is to learn with the children. Being curious and modeling statements such as “I wonder” or “What if “ shows the children you don’t know everything, and you are there to learn with them. The other most important things are to be positive, love what you do, know you are not alone, and take care of yourself.
Is there a favorite quote about children or education?
Maria Montessori once said, “The goal of early childhood education should be to activate the child’s own natural desire to learn.”
What made you choose a career in Early Childhood Education (ECE)?
Ever since I was a young girl, I had a dream of becoming a teacher. You could find me helping out in the church nursery, participating in the babysitting club, or helping out in the local community for families in the summer. I was always being told, ”You are such a natural with kids” and I loved that I felt confident in my work when it came to providing for children and their families.
When I was in college, I was also asked the question of what made me choose a career in ECE and found my reason had changed. As I grew in the field and gained more experience, I found that it wasn’t just about feeling confident in my work but because I loved to watch children learn and thrive. It’s incredibly rewarding to see a little one build a tower with blocks, complete their first puzzle, learn to draw, or laugh with joy as I read a story. As an ECE instructor, I have a front-row seat to all those “I can do it!” moments.
When thinking about this question as the years go on, I find myself often reflecting on this question. I find there isn’t just one answer for me, and there isn’t just one time in my life I can say I chose the career in ECE because it’s a career I continue to choose every morning I wake up. I realize that as the years change, so does my answer, and that’s because it’s a career that is ever-changing, but the one thing that will never change is my love for working with young children.
What are you most proud of in your career?
When reflecting on my career, I can say without hesitation I am most proud of my students. When I started at St. Croix Regional Technical Center nine years ago, the program had been closed for two years, and I was able to start with a blank canvas. In those nine years, a lot has changed, but those changes have come from the motivation my students have given me. No matter if they are current students or former students, they have shown up time after time eager to learn and make a difference in our community. I have added behavior health professional [credentials] into our coursework. I have worked on creating three concurrent agreements with Washington County Community College, and I have also added in two concurrent agreements with the University of Maine in Farmington. We have hosted multiple teddy bear clinics; we have volunteered in the Witches of Eastport Festival; and we have volunteered in the Hokey Pokey Fair. The students accepted and excelled in these changes with a smile on their face every time. Without my students and their readiness to enter the workforce and wanting to always be one step ahead, none of these changes would have been possible.
What are your goals?
My goal is to create an environment where both children and my high school students feel safe and thrive. I want them to look forward to coming to school, explore their interests, and succeed. I currently serve on a Maine CTE grant advisory board, where we aim to bridge Maine Roads to Quality credentials and CTE Early Childhood programs, ensuring our students have the best opportunities for success upon leaving the classroom and entering the workforce, so they are able to provide the best care for the young children in the community.
The Marcia Lovell awardees represent Maine’s eight Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) districts. The full list of 2024 Marcia Lovell awardees is as follows:
District 1: Melisa Elson, Family Child Care
District 2: Leslie Hayes, Town of Bridgton
District 3: Katie Connors, Western Maine Center for Children
District 4: Eva Lowerre, Waterman Community Laugh and Learn Preschool
District 5: Jennifer Stevens, Happy Days Childcare and Learning Center
District 6: Justin Ouellette, Watch Me Shine Inc.
District 7: Lauren Remington, St. Croix Regional Technical Center CTE
District 8: Angeleia Kummer, Little Learners Child Care Preschool
Information for this article was provided by St. Croix Regional Technical Center. To submit good news about your school to the Maine DOE, fill out our good news submission form.
The Maine Department of Education (DOE) and Educate Maine have named Wiscasset Elementary School fourth-grade teacher Becky Hallowell as Maine’s 2025 Teacher of the Year. The announcement was made during a surprise ceremony Thursday with students and educators at Hallowell’s school in Wiscasset.
“The Maine Teacher of the Year program recognizes exemplary educators in our state and provides a platform for highlighting the work of Maine’s public schools,” Maine Department of Education Commissioner Pender Makin said. “As an innovative educator who prioritizes engaging, projects-based learning for her students, Becky Hallowell will bring valuable perspective to this role. Her commitment to learning—both inside and outside of the traditional classroom—makes her an ideal pick for 2025 Maine Teacher of the Year.”
Hallowell’s Teacher of the Year journey began in May when she was named the 2024 Lincoln County Teacher of the Year. Along with 15 other County Teachers of the Year, Hallowell was selected from a pool of hundreds of teachers who were nominated. In August, she was named one of four state finalistsbefore being selected as the 2025 Maine Teacher of the Year.
Becky Hallowell teaches fourth-grade students at Wiscasset Elementary School on the bank of the Sheepscot River in Wiscasset, Maine. Hallowell earned her Bachelor of Arts degree in Early Childhood Education from the University of Maine at Farmington in 1994 and then received her Master of Science in Educational Leadership from the University of Southern Maine in 2011. She is the 2024 Lincoln County Teacher of the Year. Hallowell embraces a pedagogy that honors nature and place-based learning, establishing connections between students and the local, state, and global community. She believes learning is more powerful when linked to content that students personally value and find meaningful as they engage in project-based learning. While she finds great joy in supporting student learning, Hallowell commits to her own learning and that of her colleagues both as a mentor and a mentor trainer. She has teamed with the Maine Math and Science Alliance in a research project connecting place-based learning and science sense-making, presenting her work to other educators at conferences. Hallowell also collaborated with her teaching partner and a University of Maine at Farmington professor to connect preservice teachers with fourth-grade students to discuss literature. She presented this work with her partners at the National Council for Teachers of English conference in 2023. Hallowell enjoys exploring new trails in her free time, often finding a lesson in a unique mushroom or rock formation. She lives in Whitefield with her husband, three sons, and pesky kitty.
“Teachers have the most important job of guiding students to become the best possible versions of themselves,” said 2025 Maine Teacher of the Year Becky Hallowell. “Our children are Maine’s most valuable resource, and, as Maine Teacher of the Year, I look forward to celebrating the dedicated, creative, and compassionate teachers who show up for Maine children every day.”
The 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 State Board of Education members, school administrators, Maine Department of Education staff, legacy Teachers of the Year, and other Maine business partners. Hallowell was nominated for the honor by her teaching colleague, Neera Harmon.
“Educate Maine is thrilled to congratulate Becky Hallowell on being named the 2025 Maine Teacher of the Year. Her dedication to place-based learning and her commitment to fostering meaningful student connections are inspiring, and we look forward to supporting her as she embarks on this exciting journey,” said Dr. Jason Judd, Executive Director of Educate Maine.
As the 2025 Maine Teacher of the Year, Hallowell will spend her year of service advocating for students and teachers and speaking to the importance of education in preparing Maine students for the future. She will also represent Maine in the National Teacher of the Year program.
According to 2024 Maine Teacher of the Year Joshua Chard, “Becky is about to embark on the professional journey of a lifetime. It will be a year of professional learning, educational advocacy, and celebration of all of the amazing teaching and learning happening in schools in Maine and across the nation. Becky’s passion for and leadership in outdoor education positions her perfectly to be a leader in this national cohort of exceptional educators.”
“On behalf of the entire Wiscasset schools community, I want to express our immense pride and gratitude that Becky Hallowell has been named Maine Teacher of the Year for 2025!” said Kim Andersson, Wiscasset School Department Superintendent of Schools. “This comes as no surprise to us; Becky is an innovative outdoor educator whose love of life and learning inspires and elevates everyone around her. Her work fosters care and knowledge about the environment and teaches every student the importance of their impact on the world around them. It’s truly remarkable, and so is Becky!”
The Maine Teacher of the Year program is administered by Educate Maine, a business-led advocacy organization, in partnership with the Maine Department of Education, the Maine State Board of Education, and the Maine County and State Teachers and County of the Year Association (MCSTOYA). Funding for the program is generously provided by Bangor Savings Bank, Dead River, Geiger, Hannaford, Maine Lottery, the Silvernail Family, and Unum.
The Maine Department of Education (DOE) was pleased to host a special ceremony at the recent 2024 Maine DOE Annual Summit to honor educators from two prestigious national awards, the Presidential Awards for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching (PAEMST) and the Gilder Lehrman Institute’s History Teacher of the Year program.
PAEMST is the nation’s highest honor for teachers of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM, including Computer Science). Nominees complete a rigorous application process that allows them to demonstrate deep content knowledge and their ability to adapt to a broad range of learners and teaching environments. Maine applicants were reviewed by mathematics and science selection committees comprised of previous Maine PAEMST awardees and content area experts. More than 5,200 PAEMST awardees have been recognized since the program was established by Congress in 1983.
Each year, the Gilder Lehrman Institute seeks out the finest history teachers in the United States to acknowledge their vital work. Since 2004, they have recognized 1,000+ outstanding elementary, middle, and high school teachers in each of the fifty states, the District of Columbia, Department of Defense schools, and US Territories. Each state committee selects a winner based on creativity, leadership, and use of primary source material.
Maine’s Honorees are as follows:
2024 PAEMST Maine
Left to Right: Deb Larsen-Soderberg, Marcia Train, Hillary Bellefleur
2024 PAEMST Maine Finalist – Elementary Mathematics Category
Deb Larsen-Soderberg, Orono Middle School, Orono
Deb Larsen-Soderberg was selected as the 2024 Elementary Mathematics PAEMST State Finalist for her variety and skillful balance of pedagogy, content knowledge, and instructional strategies that support and strengthen student growth in mathematics. Through a hands-on, active engagement approach to learning, she encourages students to think more deeply and creatively about math and complex reasoning.
2024 PAEMST Maine Finalists – Elementary Science Category
Hillary Bellefleur, Leroy H. Smith Elementary School, Winterport
Hillary Bellefleur was selected as one of the 2024 Elementary Science PAESMT State Finalists for her strong grasp of physical, life, earth, and engineering sciences appropriate for elementary grades. She provides engaging, innovative, and student-centered approaches to instruction, supporting all learners in her classroom. Hillary has worked with Maine DOE on the MOOSE project, integrating science into modules for all teachers to use. She was also recognized as the 2021 Waldo County Teacher of the Year, 2021 National Milken Educator Award, a 2022 Finalists for the Maine Teacher of the Year. She earned her National Board Certification in 2022.
Marcia Train, Long Island School, Long Island
Marcia Train was selected as one of the 2024 Elementary Science PAEMST State Finalists for her passion and dedication to science education. She engages her students in a hands-on, inquiry-based approach to learning that connects their experiences with their community. Marcia spent three months on a research vessel, connecting with her students during that time, bringing back knowledge and skills that supported students in connecting to Maine-based aquaculture. Her students developed an aquaculture site to grow and harvest sugar kelp. Some other key projects her students have been involved in are monitoring ocean health, rehabilitating and cleaning up the island beaches, and growing a school garden, to name just a few.
Maine History Teacher of the Year
Left to right: Jessica Graham, Ethan Brownell
2024 Maine History Teacher of the Year
Jessica Graham, Waterville High School, Waterville
Jessica Graham was selected as the Maine History Teacher of the Year for her excellence in history education. As a history teacher in Waterville, Jess has developed a creative and compelling curriculum that engages her students in all areas of social studies, with a particular passion for civic engagement. Her connection with students was evident when they selected her to give their commencement address. One of her students spoke on her behalf at the Educators Summit, again demonstrating her commitment and connection to her students. Jessica is currently working on her PhD in History from the University of Maine.
2023 Maine History Teacher of the Year
Ethan Brownell, Maine Central Institute, Pittsfield
Ethan Brownell was selected as the Maine History Teacher of the Year for his excellence in history education. At Maine Central Institute, Ethan has taught and developed several engaging courses with unique historical perspectives. He has developed community connections to support his students’ understanding of history and social studies. Beyond the school day, Ethan models civic engagement for his students in his local community. He is a current board member of the Maine Council for Social Studies.
Maine’s 2024 PAEMST finalists have been forwarded to a panel of distinguished mathematicians, scientists and educators at the national level who will assess the applications before recommending nominees to the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy (OSTP). Teachers are selected based on their distinction in the classroom and dedication to improving STEM education. The teachers chosen to be Presidential Awardees will be notified by the White House, honored at various ceremonies in Washington, D.C., and will receive $10,000 from the National Science Foundation.
Maine’s 2024 History Teacher of the Year, Jessica Graham, was awarded $1,000 and automatically became a nominee in the national contest this year. The national panel of eminent historians, former winners, and master teachers selects one national winner for the $10,000 award in September. Brownell received the same honors and underwent the same process in 2023.
Nominations for the 2025 PAEMST Award will open soon. This round of awards will honor mathematics, science, and engineering (STEM, including computer science) teachers working in grades 7-12. Consider a great teacher you know for nomination or nominate yourself! For more information or to nominate a teacher visit the PAEMST website.
Eight Teachers Will Continue Through the Teacher of the Year Process
Augusta, ME–Eight Maine teachers were announced today as the state semifinalists for the 2025 Maine Teacher of the Year. These inspiring educators, members of the 2024 County Teacher of the Year cohort, embody the dedication, innovation, and leadership synonymous with Maine’s exceptional classroom teachers. As ambassadors for their students, colleagues, and school communities, their selection acknowledges their excellence in teaching and celebrates the collective achievements and commitment of the entire teaching profession in Maine.
The semifinalists for the 2025 Maine Teacher of the Year are:
Kristel Anuszewski, Windsor Elementary School, 2024 Kennebec County Teacher of the Year
Shilo Burnham, East Belfast School, 2024 Waldo County Teacher of the Year
Ally Gilbert, Mt. Ararat High School, 2024 Sagadahoc County Teacher of the Year
Becky Hallowell, Wiscasset Elementary School, 2024 Lincoln County Teacher of the Year
Ryan Lowell, Ellsworth High School, 2024 Hancock County Teacher of the Year
Danielle Pelletier, CK Burns School, 2024 York County Teacher of the Year
Katie Strait, Baxter Academy for Technology and Science, 2024 Cumberland County Teacher of the Year
Emilie Throckmorton, Bangor High School, 2024 Penobscot County Teacher of the Year
“Congratulations to all the semifinalists on this well-deserved recognition,” said Maine Education Commissioner Pender Makin. “I’m so inspired by the extraordinary work you do each and every day on behalf of your students, schools, and communities. Thank you for stepping up to represent Maine teachers as County Teachers of the Year and now as Teacher of the Year Semifinalists.”
“We are thrilled to recognize these outstanding educators who exemplify the passion and dedication that define Maine’s teaching community,” said Educate Maine Executive Director Jason Judd. “Their commitment to student success and innovation in the classroom is truly commendable. We look forward to the next phases of the selection process and the announcement of the 2025 Maine Teacher of the Year.”
The selection process for the Maine Teacher of the Year Program is rigorous and reflective, designed by educators to offer candidates an opportunity to reflect on their instructional practice. Each educator was nominated in January by a member of their community for their commitment to their students and exemplary service in education. They first participated in the County Selection Process, where a distinguished panel of teachers, principals, and business community members selected them as a County Teacher of the Year from among hundreds of nominees. In May, they embarked on the state Teacher of the Year process, showcasing their instructional practices through a classroom video and written reflection.
In the next phase of the selection process, the semifinalists will deliver keynote speeches, submit professional portfolios, and participate in an expert panel discussion on educational equity, teacher leadership, and education policy. The state finalists will be announced in September, and the 2025 Maine Teacher of the Year will be revealed in October. The 2025 Maine Teacher of the Year will serve as an ambassador for the teaching profession and 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 Teacher of the Year Association (MCSTOYA) and the Maine State Board of Education. Funding for the program is generously provided by Bangor Savings Bank, Dead River, Geiger, Hannaford, Maine Lottery, the Silvernail Family, and Unum.
For more information about the Maine County Teacher of the Year Program and to see a list of County Teachers of the Year, and Maine Teachers of the Year, visit http://www.mainetoy.org.
The Maine Department of Education (DOE) joins the Alternative Education Association of Maine in congratulating the 2024 Alternative Educators of the Year. The Alternative Education Association of Maine selects the recipients of the Maine Alternative Education Teachers of the Year for their hard work and determination as alternative education teachers in the State of Maine.
Please join us in celebrating the following individuals for their outstanding work with some of Maine’s most at-risk students! Their positive influence on student success is changing lives daily.
John Hawley
John Hawley Teacher, Mt. Ararat High School
John Hawley has been working in alternative education for 6 years. He is described by his colleagues as someone who always advocates for students. Moving them beyond the “at-risk” label, he provides students with opportunities to actively engage in their learning, helping them feel connected to school and each other.
Each day is an opportunity and John Hawley fights for the Alternative Education program at every level, both community and state. All of this excites his students and makes every day another opportunity to learn, all while having the very best of times doing it. Hawley serves as a pillar of the Mt. Ararat Middle School Community, always bringing people together to better serve students both inside and outside his classroom. His goal is to always build the best possible Alternative Education Program for his students.
“My approach is to develop a collaborative team of students working on their grade level project-based curriculum,” said Hawley.
Christine “Cappy” Caprio
Christine “Cappy” Caprio Teacher and Program Coordinator, York High School
Christine Caprio wrote the grant that provided the funding for an alternative education. program at York High School 19 years ago and has led the program to where they serve more than 30 students each year. Through her commitment to the program, she graduates close to 100% of her students within four years. She has implemented a project-based curriculum for York students that emphasizes student ownership and relevance to the curriculum.
She exemplifies a lifelong learner having attained multiple degrees in education. It is very rare to find someone who creates an alternative education and continues teaching in the program for over 15 years. During the covid outbreak in 2020, Ms. Caprio delivered food to her students weekly and forged a connection with them to check on their academic and mental health. She individually taught her students in their driveways to help them pass courses and graduate.
“In my thirty years in education I know of no other educator who has given so much and done so much for her students than Christine Caprio,” said a close colleague of Caprio.
“My work with students is rooted in community and connection; I seek to foster students’ natural curiosity and to challenge and engage them with meaningful, relevant project-based learning curriculum,” said Caprio.
Jacqui Holmes
Jacqui Holmes and Ed Sharood Teachers, Kennebunk High School
Jacqui Holmes and Ed Sharood have shaped and built a vision for expanding the scope and reach of alternative education in Kennebunk. Their innovative programming takes students off of the school campus and into the community where students work in and for local partners. Students who have not found purpose or connection in traditional education are welcomed and challenged in tasks which have tangible real-world impact.
Ed Sharood
Holmes and Sharood, with 8 and 18 years in alternative education, respectively, traveled to the National Alternative Education Association Conference as ambassadors of Maine Alternative Education and advocates of purpose-driven, innovative curricular design. They became the first presenters from Maine in recent memory and drew both accolades and attention for their work.
“These two are simply inspiring,” described one of their colleagues. “They have given so much of themselves to create an environment where each student experiences purpose, challenge, and respect. After talking with Jackie and Ed, I feel like I want to do my own job better.”
“Through a project and community-based curriculum, we strive to create a space where students feel a sense of belonging and are empowered to take ownership of their own education,” said the dynamic duo in a collective statement.
The Alternative Education Association of Maine has selected eight students to receive this year’s Martin Mackey Memorial Scholarship.
The Martin Mackey Memorial Scholarship was established by the Alternative Education Association (AEA) of Maine in 2022 after the passing of Martin Mackey, beloved education colleague and champion. The scholarship recognizes Mackey’s dedication to education as a career and his passion for working with students on Alternative Education pathways. Each year, AEA aims to award as many funds as possible to support students.
Each student will be awarded $500 when they graduate. Each graduate’s inspirational story and passion for their education makes them more than deserving of this award.
Aidan Conley Endeavor Program, Freeport High School
Aidan moved into the Endeavor Program at Freeport High School in the middle of 10th grade, after he was struggling with traditional high school classes. Endeavor gave him the confidence he needed to pursue further education. He has demonstrated immense growth over the course of the rest of his high school career. Aidan is currently a volunteer firefighter in Pownal and will be attending Southern Maine Community College to pursue Fire Science. The alternative education pathway changed his high school experience completely; he and his family are both very grateful. Congratulations to Aidan!
Alexis Foss
Machias Memorial High School Alternative Education Program
Alexis struggled with the traditional high school setting, but Machias Memorial High School offered her the chance to move to an alternative education program, where she made slow and steady improvements in attendance and academics. With these changes she consistently demonstrated a strong interest in art and in the field of Health/human services. She has recently been accepted to Southern Maine Community College to pursue a degree in liberal studies with a concentration in art. Alexis has worked through significant challenges to achieve her high school diploma. She is a kind, warm and thoughtful young woman who truly wants to succeed in her academics and make the world a better place.
Gavin Howie
Windham High School Katahdin Program
Gavin Howie is an alternative learner who, in just one year at the Windham High School’s Katahdin Program, has blossomed into a motivated leader with future aspirations. He has grown tremendously and developed his voice as a learner. Gavin also shares Martin’s Mackey’s love of “human-powered transportation,” and can often be found on a bike, skateboard, pair of skis, or with a backpack on climbing up a mountain. He intends on enrolling at Kennebec Valley Community College to pursue licensure as an Electrical Line worker. Congratulations to Gavin!
Riley Tibbetts Marti Stevens Learning Center, MSAD 54
Riley Tibbetts joined the alternative education program, Marti Stevens Learning Center in MSAD 54 halfway through her freshman year and has since grown into an amazing beekeeper and an extraordinary student. She has even earned a principal award through her former high school due to her welcoming nature, acceptance, and civic work. She is not only the first in her family to graduate from high school, but she is also graduating with honors and has already completed three college courses. Aside from challenging coursework, she works 25 hours a week at Dunkin. This fall, Riley will be living on campus at Southern Maine Community College and is working toward a career as a special education teacher. Congratulations to Riley!
Kai Voye, Brewer Nu Program, Brewer School Department
Kai Voye is a part of the Nu program at Brewer. Kai is a driven student who has succeeded in 6 advanced placement courses, taken online. This year, Kai’s shined best as classroom volunteer, playing a vital role in building a middle school alternative education program. Kai is consistent, kind, knowledgeable, and students adore him. When the program grew from 9 to 24 students, Kai’s presence was a huge reason that the students continued to thrive and came to school excited to learn. Kai hopes to take college classes in the fall and pursue a career in a science field. Congratulations to Kai!
Ann Prickett Waterville Alternative High School Program
Ann Prickett is a part of and a strong advocate for the Waterville Alternative High School Program. She is a passionate art student and has used her work to connect with the community and draw awareness to important issues. Ann has used the healing power of art to help her process trauma from her past. She has engaged in many extracurricular art programs and is respected by many outside her peer group in the local Central Maine Art Community. Ann’s dedication to her community is evident in her advocacy and volunteer work, as she would sell her art to raise funds for local families in need. She also was invited to speak at public events to support the Waterville Alternative High School Program. Ann has been accepted to the Maine College of Art B.A. program, where she will continue to share her talent with her community and advocate for alternative education. Congratulations to Ann!
Ayla Gayton Gray-New Gloucester High School’s ExCEL Alternative Education Program
Ayla Gayton pursued an alternative education at Gray-New Gloucester High School’s ExCEL alternative education program during her sophomore year. She came into the program very low on credits, self-esteem, and was at a high risk of dropping out of high school. In this program, she quickly bonded with her peers, which allowed her to show her knowledge and feel successful. Ayla has an incredible work ethic and has had a job since she was able to get a job permit. She has worked very hard to balance home life and work life with her coursework and was able to earn 7.5 credits. This progress helped her get accepted into the Early Childcare program at Portland Arts & Technology High School (PATHS) for her junior & senior years. She has earned several accolades from PATHS: student of the month, admission to a summer program at the University of New England, and the completion of certifications and courses for a Behavior Health Professional (BHP). Ayla will be attending Central Maine Community College as part of the Liberal Studies program and hopes to become an early child educator. Congratulations to Ayla!
Kamdynn Hardgrove Pathways Alternative Education Program, Presque Isle
Kamdynn Hardgrove has faced extreme adversity while trying to navigate his education. Despite these burdens, Kam has always had a passion for helping others especially since becoming part of the Pathways Alternative Education program in Presque Isle. He helps the community with many events, such as the Balloon Festival, food deliveries for those in need, and the Chamber of Commerce for the Holiday Light Parade. In 9th grade, he walked three miles to help build the Santa float in five-degree weather. Kam has also been an active member of Presque Isle High Band for four years. He will be attending Northern Maine Community College for Welding in the fall. Congratulations to Kamdynn!
To learn more about the Alternative Education Association of Maine visit their website or reach out to Alternative Education Association of Maine President Lenny Holmes at lholmes@bonnyeagle.org.
Adam Fernald
Roland Godbout
Tom Huston
Rob Callahan
Aidan Conley
Alexis Foss
Gavin Howie
Riley Tibbetts
Kai Voye, Brewer
Ann Prickett
Ayla Gayton
Kamdynn Hardgrove
Maine DOE Newsroom 