Category: Literacy

Professional Learning Workshop: Integrating Literacy through Graphic Novels with Marek Bennett

The Maine Department of Education (DOE) Office of Teaching and Learning is excited to kick off the return of the Integrating Literacy series with a full-day deep dive into graphic novels as powerful tools for literacy growth.

From fantasy and humor to history and science, graphic novels are among students’ favorite reads. They’re more than entertainment, though; research shows that the format can strengthen vocabulary, comprehension, and visual literacy.

Join educator and graphic novel author Marek Bennett for an inspiring, hands-on workshop. We’ll explore exemplary texts, unpack the science behind their impact on readers, and create our own graphics.

Educators will leave with:

  • A clear understanding of the research supporting graphic novels for literacy development across grade levels and disciplines.
  • Practical ideas to build a schoolwide culture of reading through graphic storytelling.
  • Concrete strategies to engage students in creating and publishing their own work.

When: Friday, November 21, 2025, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Where: The Steel House in Rockland (639 Main Street, Rockland, ME 04841)

This free workshop is happening in-person and will be streamed via Zoom for those unable to travel. Bring a lunch or order locally—there are plenty of spots to picnic and connect with fellow educators!

Space is limited! Register today.

This event marks the first in a four-part literacy workshop series offered by the Maine DOE. Other workshops in the Integrating Literacy series include:

  • “Mapmaking: Coding and Decoding” with Osher Map Library on Friday, March 6, 2026, from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. in Portland
  • “Objects (Rocks, Minerals and Gems – Oh My!) and Writing Process” with the Maine Mineral and Gem Museum and Ronni Blaisdell on Friday, April 10, 2026, from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. in Bethel
  • “Engaging Reluctant Readers” with Cris Tovani on Friday, May 15, 2026, from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. in Augusta

To register for any of these workshops, use this registration form.

With questions, please contact Maine DOE Interdisciplinary Instruction Specialist Heather Martin at Heather.Martin@maine.gov.

Maine Department of Education Expands Access to High-Quality Literacy Professional Development

As part of Governor Janet Mills’ recently launched Maine State Reading Action Plan, the Maine Department of Education (DOE) is excited to announce an opportunity for Maine educators to access evidence-based literacy professional learning modules at a reduced cost.

In the summer of 2024, the Maine DOE provided free access to AIM Institute for Learning & Research’s Steps to Literacy modules. Nearly 650 educators completed more than 20,000 hours of professional learning grounded in the science of reading, covering phonological awareness, phonics, decoding, spelling, language expression, writing, emerging literacy, vocabulary, dyslexia, and supports for multilingual learners.

Building on that success, in 2025, to sustain momentum, the Maine DOE has expanded access to AIM modules and launched Communities of Practice (COP) for school teams. The COPs are designed to deepen professional knowledge and build school-level capacity to implement high-quality, evidence-based literacy instruction.

Recognizing that access to affordable and user-friendly professional learning is critical, the Maine DOE invited professional learning providers offering asynchronous modules that met established criteria to extend reduced-rate access to Maine educators. The Maine DOE has established master agreements with two providers, enabling school administrative units (SAUs) to purchase quality, evidence-based literacy modules at a discounted cost. Details are available here: Maine Department of Education | Professional Literacy Modules.

Reimbursement Opportunity

While any Maine educator may purchase modules at the reduced price, Maine’s Preschool Development Grant (PDG) will reimburse SAUs for modules successfully completed by educators working, or supporting, pre-K through grade 3.

  • Who pays up front: SAUs may purchase modules directly from one of the approved vendors (below).
  • Reimbursement window: Through December 15, 2025, SAUs may submit for reimbursement.
  • What to submit: Invoices should be submitted on SAU letterhead with proof of successful completion for each module.
  • Where to send: Please email invoices and documentation to Renee Reilly, Maine DOE PDG Manager, at renee.a.reilly@maine.gov.

Professional Learning Module Options

AIM Pathways™ is an interactive digital training platform that delivers evidence-based content in the science of reading. Each Steps to Literacy module follows a “learn, practice, apply” cycle and includes teaching techniques, demonstration videos, and printable resources to help educators integrate new strategies into classroom practice. Learn more about accessing AIM Pathways modules here.

Keys to Literacy offers a comprehensive, research-backed approach to sustainable literacy improvement. Its courses integrate evidence-based instruction with systems, structures, and leadership practices that support equitable and effective learning environments. All modules are designed for asynchronous, on-demand access, allowing educators to engage in professional learning on their own schedules. Learn more about accessing Keys to Literacy modules here.

Through these master agreements, the Maine DOE is ensuring that Maine educators have affordable opportunities to deepen their expertise and strengthen literacy instruction for all students.

For additional information or questions related to module content, please contact Dee Saucier, Maine DOE Inclusive Education Literacy Specialist and Dyslexia Coordinator, at danielle.m.saucier@maine.gov. For inquiries regarding reimbursement, please contact Renee Reilly at renee.a.reilly@maine.gov.