Nominations Open for Maine Association of School Libraries Annual Awards

The Maine Association of School Libraries (MASL) is accepting nominations for its annual awards, which recognize a school librarian, a school library support staff member, and a school administrator each year for excellence in supporting school libraries around Maine. The deadline for nominations is February 15, 2025.

Further details about each of the awards, including criteria and how to nominate someone, can be found here:

In addition to receiving recognition and a plaque, winners get a $500 check for their school library.

For more information, please visit maslibraries.org and click on the “Awards & Scholarship” tab.

Nominations Open for 2025 Maine School Counselor of the Year Award

The Maine School Counselor Association (MESCA) is accepting nominations for the 2025 Maine School Counselor of the Year Award. The deadline to nominate someone is Wednesday, December 18, 2024.

The Maine School Counselor of the Year Award honors outstanding school counselors who are running or supporting a top-notch, comprehensive school counseling program at their school.

The winner of the award will be announced at the Hall of Flags in the Maine State House during National School Counselor Week of 2025 (February 3-7, 2025) and will be recognized in Washington D.C. the following school year in January of 2026. The recipient is also invited to serve on the MESCA board.

Nominations for Maine School Counselor of the Year Award can be submitted here. Once you fill out the nomination form and submit it, the nominator and the nominee will receive a confirmation email.

Please contact Jackie Chaplin, Awards Committee Chair, at awards@maineschoolcounselor.org with any questions.

Maine Announces State Delegates for 63rd Annual United States Senate Youth Program 

The Maine Department of Education (DOE) is thrilled to announce the selection of Maine’s delegates for the 63rd annual prestigious United States Senate Youth Program (USSYP). On Monday, December 2, two exceptional Maine students, Sam Drummey and Emmett Appell, were recognized at their schools for their outstanding leadership, academic achievements, and community involvement. They will represent Maine in Washington, D.C. in March of 2025 for an immersive week-long program, designed to deepen students’ understanding of the U.S. government and inspire future leaders.

Sam Drummey is a senior at Thornton Academy. He serves as the Student Body’s Vice President and is a passionate advocate for environmental sustainability and equal rights. Sam is deeply involved in his community, serving on the City of Biddeford’s Ad Hoc Sustainability Committee and the Biddeford Sustainability Commission. He has earned top academic honors, including awards in Honors Sophomore English, AP Human Geography, Honors Blind Eye of History, and nine other courses. Outside of the classroom, Sam actively volunteers with Maine Youth Action Network, MaineTransNet, and GrowSmart Maine. He is also a member of several school organizations, including the Student Council, Environmental Club, National Honor Society, Model UN, and the Speech Team. Sam’s future career aspirations focus on ensuring equal rights for all, protecting the environment, and working toward a renewable energy transition. His goal is to mitigate the negative impacts of environmental changes on vulnerable populations, while expanding access to vital services like housing and health care.

Sarah Stanley, York County Regional Representative, Senator Angus King; Pamela Buck, State Office Representative, Senator Susan Collins; Delilah Poupore, Sam's mother; Sam Drummey; Jonathan Drummey, Sam's father; Beth Lambert, Chief Teaching and Learning Officer, Maine Department of Education; Vanessa Diaz Gaumond, Youth Programs Coordinator, Maine Department of the Secretary of State
Sarah Stanley, York County Regional Representative, Senator Angus King; Pamela Buck, State Office Representative, Senator Susan Collins; Delilah Poupore, Sam’s mother; Sam Drummey; Jonathan Drummey, Sam’s father; Beth Lambert, Chief Teaching and Learning Officer, Maine Department of Education; Vanessa Diaz Gaumond, Youth Programs Coordinator, Maine Department of the Secretary of State

Emmett Appell is a senior at Erskine Academy. He is a dynamic leader with a passion for both public service and STEM. He is President of the Student Council and Environmental Club, Co-Founder of the Math Team, and Vice President of the International Outreach Coalition. Emmett is also the First Chair Saxophonist in the Jazz Band and the Captain of the Soccer Team. His academic excellence has earned him the Rensselaer Medal and the George Eastman Young Leaders Award, along with competitive research positions at MDI Biological Laboratory, the Keller BLOOM Program at Bigelow Laboratory for Ocean Sciences, and Colby College’s Professor Dasan Thamattoor’s lab. Emmett’s leadership extends to volunteering as Chief of Staff at Dirigo State and as a Rural Youth Activist at JustMe for JustUS. His passion for public service began early, inspired by attending selectboard meetings with his father and witnessing the impact of local government. Emmett plans to pursue a liberal arts education in college to continue his work in policy and STEM, with a long-term goal of becoming a congressman.

From left to right: Kathy Finnemore, Constituent Services Representative, Senator Susan Collins; Karen Fox, Constituent Services Representative, Senator Angus King; Emmett Appel; Beth Lambert, Chief Teaching and Learning Officer, Maine Department of Education; Vanessa Diaz Gaumond, Youth Programs Coordinator, Maine Department of the Secretary of State
From left to right: Kathy Finnemore, Constituent Services Representative, Senator Susan Collins; Karen Fox, Constituent Services Representative, Senator Angus King; Emmett Appel; Beth Lambert, Chief Teaching and Learning Officer, Maine Department of Education; Vanessa Diaz Gaumond, Youth Programs Coordinator, Maine Department of the Secretary of State

“We are incredibly proud of these outstanding students who have demonstrated exemplary leadership, dedication to community service, and a deep commitment to learning,” Beth Lambert, Chief Teaching and Learning Officer for the Maine Department of Education, said. “Both Sam and Emmett embody the values of the United States Senate Youth Program, and we are confident that they will bring their passion for public service and civic engagement to Washington, D.C., as they represent Maine at the national level.”

Members of both Senator Susan Collins’ office and Senator Angus King’s office, as well as representatives from the Maine Secretary of State’s office, were present during Monday’s announcement, underscoring the importance of fostering civic engagement and leadership in Maine’s young people.

The USSYP, established by Senate Resolution 324 in 1962, offers a unique opportunity for young leaders to gain a deeper understanding of the federal government and meet with U.S. senators, government officials, and political leaders. In addition to the immersive experience, each delegate will receive a $10,000 college scholarship.

For more information about the United States Senate Youth Program, please click here.

MEDIA RELEASE: Maine Announces State Delegates for 63rd Annual United States Senate Youth Program 

Sam Drummey of Thornton Academy and Emmett Appell of Erskine Academy will represent Maine at the United States Senate Youth Program in Washington, D.C. in March of 2025. 

AUGUSTA, Maine – The Maine Department of Education (DOE) is thrilled to announce the selection of Maine’s delegates for the 63rd annual prestigious United States Senate Youth Program (USSYP). On Monday, December 2, two exceptional Maine students, Sam Drummey and Emmett Appell, were recognized at their schools for their outstanding leadership, academic achievements, and community involvement. They will represent Maine in Washington, D.C. in March of 2025 for an immersive week-long program, designed to deepen students’ understanding of the U.S. government and inspire future leaders. 

Sam Drummey is a senior at Thornton Academy. He serves as the Student Body’s Vice President and is a passionate advocate for environmental sustainability and equal rights. Sam is deeply involved in his community, serving on the City of Biddeford’s Ad Hoc Sustainability Committee and the Biddeford Sustainability Commission. He has earned top academic honors, including awards in Honors Sophomore English, AP Human Geography, Honors Blind Eye of History, and nine other courses. Outside of the classroom, Sam actively volunteers with Maine Youth Action Network, MaineTransNet, and GrowSmart Maine. He is also a member of several school organizations, including the Student Council, Environmental Club, National Honor Society, Model UN, and the Speech Team. Sam’s future career aspirations focus on ensuring equal rights for all, protecting the environment, and working toward a renewable energy transition. His goal is to mitigate the negative impacts of environmental changes on vulnerable populations, while expanding access to vital services like housing and health care. 

Emmett Appell is a senior at Erskine Academy. He is a dynamic leader with a passion for both public service and STEM. He is President of the Student Council and Environmental Club, Co-Founder of the Math Team, and Vice President of the International Outreach Coalition. Emmett is also the First Chair Saxophonist in the Jazz Band and the Captain of the Soccer Team. His academic excellence has earned him the Rensselaer Medal and the George Eastman Young Leaders Award, along with competitive research positions at MDI Biological Laboratory, the Keller BLOOM Program at Bigelow Laboratory for Ocean Sciences, and Colby College’s Professor Dasan Thamattoor’s lab. Emmett’s leadership extends to volunteering as Chief of Staff at Dirigo State and as a Rural Youth Activist at JustMe for JustUS. His passion for public service began early, inspired by attending selectboard meetings with his father and witnessing the impact of local government. Emmett plans to pursue a liberal arts education in college to continue his work in policy and STEM, with a long-term goal of becoming a congressman. 

“We are incredibly proud of these outstanding students who have demonstrated exemplary leadership, dedication to community service, and a deep commitment to learning,” Beth Lambert, Chief Teaching and Learning Officer for the Maine Department of Education, said. “Both Sam and Emmett embody the values of the United States Senate Youth Program, and we are confident that they will bring their passion for public service and civic engagement to Washington, D.C., as they represent Maine at the national level.” 

Members of both Senator Susan Collins’ office and Senator Angus King’s office, as well as representatives from the Maine Secretary of State’s office, were present during Monday’s announcement, underscoring the importance of fostering civic engagement and leadership in Maine’s young people. 

The USSYP, established by Senate Resolution 324 in 1962, offers a unique opportunity for young leaders to gain a deeper understanding of the federal government and meet with U.S. senators, government officials, and political leaders. In addition to the immersive experience, each delegate will receive a $10,000 college scholarship. 

For more information about the United States Senate Youth Program, please click here.

From left to right: Sarah Stanley, York County Regional Representative, Senator Angus King; Pamela Buck, State Office Representative, Senator Susan Collins; Delilah Poupore, Sam’s mother; Sam Drummey; Jonathan Drummey, Sam’s father; Beth Lambert, Chief Teaching and Learning Officer, Maine Department of Education; Vanessa Diaz Gaumond, Youth Programs Coordinator, Maine Department of the Secretary of State
 

From left to right: Kathy Finnemore, Constituent Services Representative, Senator Susan Collins; Karen Fox, Constituent Services Representative, Senator Angus King; Emmett Appel; Beth Lambert, Chief Teaching and Learning Officer, Maine Department of Education; Vanessa Diaz Gaumond, Youth Programs Coordinator, Maine Department of the Secretary of State

Nominations Open for Distinguished English Language Arts Educator Awards

The Maine Council for English Language Arts (MCELA), an affiliate of the National Council of Teachers of English, is now accepting nominations for two prestigious educator awards: the Claudette and John Brassil Distinguished Educator Award and the newly-established MCELA Teacher of Excellence Award. These awards recognize educators who have demonstrated a high level of excellence in teaching English language arts and who have made significant contributions to their school communities and beyond. Both awards will be presented at MCELA’s annual conference in March of 2025. Awardees will receive free conference registration, MCELA membership for one year, and an invitation to present a workshop session. The nomination deadline for both awards is December 1, 2024.

Claudette and John Brassil Distinguished Educator Award

Now in its seventh year, the Claudette and John Brassil Distinguished Educator Award celebrates outstanding English language arts educators who exemplify excellence in teaching, professional leadership, and community commitment. This award honors teachers who have contributed significantly to the field of English language arts in Maine and beyond.

Eligibility:  

Nominees must be full-time English language arts teachers with a minimum of five years of teaching experience in Maine public, independent, or private schools. They do not need to be members of MCELA. Nominations can be submitted by a supervisor or a teaching colleague.

Award Criteria:  

Nominees should demonstrate:

  • Leadership within their school, district, and at the state and/or national level(s),
  • A commitment to developing and sharing effective ELA practices beyond their district,
  • Dedication to student-centered learning that respects and uplifts students of all backgrounds and abilities, and
  • Active involvement in school and community activities beyond the classroom.

To submit a nomination, please visit the MCELA Brassil Award webpage for the nomination form and further details.

MCELA Teacher of Excellence Award

This newly-introduced award is designed to recognize English language arts teachers who have shown outstanding dedication to their students’ learning and have inspired a love of reading, writing, and critical inquiry. The MCELA Teacher of Excellence Award honors educators who not only excel in their teaching but also foster a vibrant, engaging classroom environment.

Eligibility:  

Nominees must be full-time English language arts teachers with a minimum of three years of teaching experience in Maine public, independent, or private schools. Membership in MCELA is not required. Nominations can be submitted by a supervisor or a peer.

Award Criteria:  

Nominees should:

  • Exhibit leadership within their school or district,
  • Actively share effective ELA practices with their colleagues,
  • Show commitment to student-centered learning that supports all students,
  • Engage in school and community initiatives beyond the classroom, and
  • Cultivate a spirit of inquiry and a love of learning in their students.

For details and to submit a nomination, please visit the MCELA Teacher of Excellence Award webpage.

MCELA encourages colleagues, supervisors, and peers to recognize and nominate the exceptional educators who make a difference in Maine classrooms every day. By celebrating these dedicated professionals, MCELA seeks to highlight the impact and importance of English language arts education across the state.

For more information about the nomination process, please visit the MCELA website. Join us in honoring those who inspire, lead, and cultivate possibilities for Maine’s students and communities.

Call for Nominations for U.S. Presidential Scholars Program 

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

Career and Technical Education Educators Honored for Excellence

Recently, Maine Administrators of Career and Technical Education (MACTE) and Maine Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE-ME) announced the recipients of their 2024 Career and Technical Education (CTE) Excellence Awards at the annual CTE conference held in Lewiston.

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 FernaldAdam 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 GodboutRoland 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

Thomas HustonTom 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 CallahanRob 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 CTE Excellence Awards are administered through Maine Administrators of Career and Technical Education (MACTE) and the Maine Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE-ME). Each recipient will advance to the regional level for a chance to progress to the national level through the National Association of Career and Technical Education (ACTE). You can find descriptions of these awards on ACTE’s website.

Nominations Open for Presidential Awards for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching

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 Open for National LifeChanger of the Year Award

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.

You can learn more about this program by visiting www.lifechangeroftheyear.com.

St. Croix Regional Technical Center Celebrates Instructor Lauren Remington as a 2024 Marcia Lovell Awardee

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

To learn more about the Marcia Lovell Award, contact Maine Roads to Quality.

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.