Maine DOE Update – December 19, 2025

From the Maine Department of Education

Data & Reporting

Upcoming Training Dates for New Connect Data System

The Maine Department of Education (DOE) Data Team will be offering webinars and office hours in January 2026 to assist in preparing for the implementation of the new Connect data integration system. These trainings will focus on data entry procedures into Connect, as well as the process for generating a collection “snapshot” within the system. | More

News & Updates

Mainers Encouraged to Nominate an Educator for State/County Teacher of the Year

Nominations are now open for the Maine Teacher of the Year program, which celebrates excellence in teaching and elevates the importance of the teaching profession. Traditionally, Maine selects a County Teacher of the Year from each of Maine’s 16 counties. One of those educators is later named State Teacher of the Year and also becomes Maine’s nominee for National Teacher of the Year. | More

Grant Funds Available to Rural SAUs through 2026 Aspirations Incubator Requests for Proposals; Submissions Due January 12

The Rural Youth Institute has announced the release of two 2026 Aspirations Incubator Requests for Proposals (RFP): a planning grant RFP and a seed grant RFP. Rural SAUs are encouraged to apply. The submission deadline for both RFPs is January 12, 2026. | More

Maine Schools Sharing Success Stories

Maine School Nutrition Teams Sharpen Skills Through No-Cost Regional Culinary Trainings

With the support and participation of the Maine Department of Education (DOE) Child Nutrition Team, Full Plates Full Potential, in collaboration with the MaineHealth Center for Health Improvement, hosted another successful season of the Culinary Skills for School Meals training over the summer. This learning opportunity is a five-day, hands-on training, designed to strengthen the culinary skills of school nutrition professionals. | More

Gorham Superintendent Heather Perry Named Finalist for AASA National Superintendent of the Year Award

Gorham School District Superintendent Heather Perry has been named one of four finalists for the AASA National Superintendent of the Year® Award, a prestigious honor administered by The School Superintendents Association (AASA), which recognizes exceptional leadership, professionalism, communication, and community engagement among school leaders nationwide. | More

Submit good news to the Maine Department of Education here.

Professional Learning/Training Opportunities

Educators Invited to “Dawnland” Documentary Screenings and Guided Dinner Discussions

The Maine Department of Education (DOE), in partnership with Wabanaki REACH, the Maine Environmental Education Association (MEEA), Wabanaki Alliance, the Upstander Project, Wabanaki Culture Center, Maine Indian Education, RSU 34, RSU 5, and MSAD 44, invites Maine educators, school leaders, and parents to a series of free, in-person events across the state to view the award-winning documentary, Dawnland.These screenings, beginning in January 2026, will be followed by dinner and a discussion. | More

Two-Part Professional Learning Series: Designing High-Quality ILAP Language Goals for Multilingual Learners

Are you looking for a clearer, more confident approach to creating effective language goals for multilingual learners? If so, consider participating in a two-part virtual series, led by Maine Department of Education (DOE) Teacher Leader Fellow Rebecca Carey. Participants will learn how to strengthen their practice surrounding Individual Language Acquisition Plans (ILAPs) by engaging in a clear and collaborative process for creating meaningful, measurable language goals that support and monitor student growth, connecting directly to classroom learning | More

View the Maine Department of Education’s Events Calendar here.

Career/Project Opportunities:

Find education-related jobs in Maine.

Maine DOE Update – December 12, 2025

From the Maine Department of Education

News & Updates

Maine DOE Announces 2026 United States Senate Youth Program State Delegates

The Maine Department of Education (DOE) is pleased to announce that Katarina Ousback of Scarborough High School and WanTing Huo of the Maine School of Science and Mathematics (MSSM) have been selected as Maine’s delegates to the 2026 United States Senate Youth Program (USSYP). They will join 102 exceptional student leaders from across the nation for Washington Week this spring, where they will engage directly with U.S. Senators, Supreme Court Justices, Cabinet officials, and other national leaders. Each delegate will also receive a $10,000 college scholarship from the William Randolph Hearst Foundation. | More

Maine Schools Sharing Success Stories

Saco Celebrates Groundbreaking for New Pre-K–Grade 5 School Campus After 20-Year Wait

The Saco School Department and City of Saco marked a historic milestone on December 4, 2025, as families, city officials, students, educators, and construction partners gathered for the official groundbreaking of the district’s transformative new pre-K–grade 5 school campus, representing the long-awaited transformation of the district’s elementary learning environments. | More

Submit good news to the Maine Department of Education here.

Professional Learning/Training Opportunities

Second of Three Statewide Professional Learning Days Scheduled for January 16: EngageMEnt – Cultivating Innovative Teaching and Learning

Maine educators are invited to attend a statewide professional learning experience on Friday, January 16, 2026, hosted by the Maine Department of Education (DOE) Offices of Teaching and Learning and Innovation. This is the second of three free, statewide events, designed for educators, ed techs, administrators, and pre-service educators, scheduled for the 2025-2026 school year. The first took place in October, and the third is scheduled for Friday, March 10. | More

Save the Date for the Third Annual ‘I Belong’ Youth Summit

The Maine Department of Education (DOE) Office of Special Services and Inclusive Education, in collaboration with the Transition Maine Regional Transition Collaborative Fellows, invites you to save the date for the third annual “I Belong” Youth Summit, to be held at Central Maine Community College in Auburn on May 21, 2026, from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Information regarding registrations for middle and high schools will be released soon. | More

View the Maine Department of Education’s Events Calendar here.

Career/Project Opportunities:

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Maine DOE Update – December 5, 2025

From the Maine Department of Education

News & Updates

Maine DOE Announces Nominees for 2026 RISE Award

The Maine Department of Education (DOE) is pleased to announce the nominees and top 10 finalists for the 2026 Recognizing Inspiring School Employees (RISE) Award. | More

Maine DOE Launches GIS World Language Educator Map to Support Expansion of World Language Opportunities Statewide

The Maine Department of Education (DOE) is introducing a new resource designed to support the expansion of world language opportunities for students across the state: the Graphic Information System (GIS) World Language Educator Map. | More

Opportunity for SAUs to Save on Goods and Services Through State’s Master Agreements

Is your school administrative unit (SAU) looking for cost-saving measures? Maine schools can use some of the State’s Master Agreements to benefit from State pricing on goods and services from many vendors. | More

Nominations Open for Maine Association of School Libraries (MASL) Awards

Nominations are now open for the Maine Association of School Libraries (MASL) Walter J. Taranko School Librarian of the Year, Support Staff Educator of the Year, and Administrator of the Year Awards. All nominations are due February 15, 2026. | More

Maine Schools Sharing Success Stories

Portland High School Senior Becomes Published Author Through The Telling Room

Portland High School senior Ramona Rowe will head to college next year with an extraordinary achievement already under her belt: She’s a published novelist. | More

Lewiston Public Schools Expands Access to Music for All Students Through Title IV, Part A Funding

Lewiston Public Schools (LPS) is striking a new chord in terms of student engagement and equity. Through a strategic Title IV, Part A investment, the district has transformed its instrumental music program, ensuring that every student—regardless of financial circumstances—has access to the joy and opportunity of music education. | More

Connecting Students to Maine’s Trucking Industry: Career Exploration Unit Highlights Trucking and Skilled Trades

The Maine Department of Education (DOE) is committed to expanding career pathways that lead students toward meaningful, in-demand professions. In partnership with the Maine Motor Transport Association (MMTA), the Maine DOE is proud to highlight the “Go. Your Way. Maine” workforce development campaign and Career Exploration Unit, an experiential learning resource designed to introduce students to careers in Maine’s trucking industry. | More

Medomak Valley High School Student Wins Logo Design Contest for Maine Attendance Campaign

The Maine Engagement and Attendance Center (MEAC), a cross-departmental collaborative within the Maine Department of Education (DOE), is excited to announce the winner of its logo design contest, launched earlier this fall as part of Attendance Awareness Month in September. | More

From Maine to the Main Stage: Maine FFA Members Receive National Recognition in Indianapolis

In October, the Maine FFA was proudly represented by five amazing chapters at the 98th National FFA Convention and Expo, held in Indianapolis, Indiana. The National FFA Convention brings in thousands of FFA members from across the country, as well as Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. While at the convention, members and advisors have an opportunity to attend outstanding workshops facilitated by national staff, visit the ever-growing career expo, and network with agribusiness professionals from all industry sectors. | More

Submit good news to the Maine Department of Education here.

Professional Learning/Training Opportunities

Registration Open for the 2026 Maine School Winter Wellness Summit

The Maine Department of Education (DOE) Employee Health Promotion and Wellness Program is pleased to be hosting the 2026 Maine School Winter Wellness Summit on Thursday, January 29 and Friday, January 30 at the Samoset Resort in Rockport. This year’s theme is, “Finding Strength Through Hope.” | More

Maine DOE and Maine Chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics Launch Asynchronous School Health Webinar Series

The Maine Department of Education (DOE) Coordinated School Health Team is excited to announce the launch of the School Health Webinar Series, presented in partnership with the Maine Chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP). This series is designed for Maine school health professionals, pediatricians, school health advisors, and others working to support student health and well-being. | More

Registration Open for Maine Curriculum Leaders Association Spring Conference, with Focus on MTSS and UDL Integration

The Maine Curriculum Leaders Association (MCLA) will host its annual Spring Conference on Monday, March 30, 2026, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Augusta Civic Center. This year’s theme is, “MTSS: The Umbrella for Making UDL Work in Every Classroom.” The event will focus on enhancing coherence between the Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS) and Universal Design for Learning (UDL)—a top priority identified through member feedback. | More

Registration Open for School-Based Behavioral Health ECHO© Series

Registration is now open for the School-Based Behavioral Health ECHO©, a free, monthly, case-based learning collaborative for school-based health center staff, school health personnel, and others who care for the health of children in school settings. This opportunity is available through the Maine Pediatric & Behavioral Health Partnership Program and is sponsored by MCD Global Health. Staff from the Maine Department of Education (DOE) Office of School and Student Supports previously hosted an ECHO© series and will participate in this series as subject matter experts. | More

View the Maine Department of Education’s Events Calendar here.

Career/Project Opportunities:

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Maine DOE Update – November 21, 2025

From the Maine Department of Education

News & Updates

Register Now for MLTI’s “Maine Winter Classic” Student Event in March

The Maine Department of Education (DOE) Learning Through Technology Team is pleased to announce that registration is now open for the 2026 Maine Learning Technology Initiative (MLTI) Maine Winter Classic, scheduled for March 2-6, 2026. | More

Maine DOE Invites Educators to Apply to Serve on Reading and Math Advisory Councils

In the 2025-2026 school year, the Maine Department of Education (DOE) launched the Maine State Reading and Math Action Plans, twin initiatives designed to bring more evidence-based instruction, educator training, and academic partnerships into Maine classrooms. | More

Maine DOE Recruiting Educators for Statewide Professional Learning Series to Strengthen Instruction for Multilingual Learners

The Maine Department of Education (DOE) is recruiting 120 certified educators to participate in a statewide professional learning series that serves as a key component of Maine’s coordinated Literacy and Numeracy Action Plans. These plans emphasize evidence-based instruction, multitiered systems of support (MTSS), aligned supports, and equitable access for all learners. | More

Maine DOE Teacher Leader Fellow and National Expert Highlight Collaborative Approaches for Multilingual Learners with Exceptionalities

The Maine Department of Education’s (DOE) professional learning on multilingual learners with disabilities was in the spotlight at this year’s Northern New England Teachers of English Speakers of Other Languages (NNETESOL) 2025 Annual Conference, themed, “Opening Doors Through Language and Literacy Instruction” and held on November 15 at Southern New Hampshire University. Through a joint session, Maine’s leadership in advancing collaborative, equitable instruction for multilingual learners with disabilities took center stage, bringing this emerging area of practice to educators from across New England. | More

Maine Schools Sharing Success Stories

Nokomis Regional High School Students Lead Technology Learning Across Maine Through MLTI SLAM Program

Students like myself from Nokomis Regional High School are using their technology skills for good as a part of the Maine Learning Technology Initiative (MLTI) SLAM program, a statewide effort sponsored by the Maine Department of Education (DOE). I have had the amazing opportunity of participating in this program for the past three years. Short for Student Leadership Ambassadors of Maine, this program gives students hands-on experience in digital creativity, leadership, and education. | More

Cape Elizabeth and Greely High School Students Named 2025 U.S. Presidential Scholars

The Maine Department of Education is proud to announce that Sage Evans of Cape Elizabeth High School and Christopher Gilbert of Greely High School have been named 2025 U.S. Presidential Scholars—one of the nation’s highest honors for graduating high school seniors. They are among just 161 students selected nationwide from a pool of more than 3.9 million graduating seniors. | More

Submit good news to the Maine Department of Education here.

Professional Learning/Training Opportunities

View the Maine Department of Education’s Events Calendar here.

Career/Project Opportunities:

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Maine DOE Update – November 14, 2025

From the Maine Department of Education

News & Updates

Maine DOE Celebrates Successful First Annual Green Schools Symposium

On Friday, November 7, 2025, hundreds of Mainers representing schools, nonprofit organizations, and local businesses attended the first annual Green Schools Symposium, held at Thomas College in Waterville. This event, designed to celebrate environmental education and climate action in Maine schools, is part of the Maine Green Schools Program—a partnership between the Maine Department of Education (DOE) and Governor’s Office of Policy Innovation and the Future (GOPIF) that supports schools across the state in advancing sustainability in four key areas: leadership, facilities, curriculum, and career pathways. | More

New Evaluation Tool Available to Support Professional Growth of School Nurses

School nursing is a complex and evolving specialty that plays a vital role in student health and academic success. To support the professional growth and evaluation of school nurses, the Maine Department of Education (DOE) has developed a resource that school administrators may find helpful as a complement to local performance and development processes. | More

Maine DOE Continues to Expand Access to High-Quality Literacy Professional Development

As part of the Maine State Literacy Action Plan, the Maine Department of Education (DOE) is excited to announce another opportunity for Maine educators to access evidence-based literacy professional learning modules at a reduced cost. This comes in addition to a similar previous announcement in October of 2025. | More

REMINDER: Applications Open for Maine DOE 2025-2026 Student Cabinet

The Maine Department of Education (DOE) is now accepting applications for the 2025-2026 Maine DOE Student Cabinet, a group of students who collaborate with Maine DOE staff to provide input on educational opportunities, improvements, and policy for the State of Maine. The deadline to apply is Thursday, November 20, 2025. | More

Maine Schools Sharing Success Stories

PBIS in Action: Students Take the Lead in Building Belonging at Sumner Memorial High School

Sumner Memorial High School in Sullivan is undergoing a cultural transformation, thanks to the implementation of Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS), a training and coaching framework that has not only improved behavior but also fostered deeper connections between students and staff. By integrating PBIS into everyday school life, the school has strengthened its sense of community and pride, and students are leading the way. | More

Submit good news to the Maine Department of Education here.

Professional Learning/Training Opportunities

View the Maine Department of Education’s Events Calendar here.

Career/Project Opportunities:

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Maine DOE Update – November 7, 2025

From the Maine Department of Education

News & Updates

Wabanaki Studies Resource Guide for Indigenous Heritage Month

As the new school year begins and Native American Heritage Month arrives, the Maine Department of Education (DOE) invites educators and communities to engage students in learning about the enduring presence, contributions, and rich cultures of the Wabanaki Nations, who have lived in the place we now call Maine for more than 13,000 years. | More

FY27 Estimate Public Pre-K Student Count Data Form Submissions Extended to November 14

The Maine Department of Education (DOE) commends school administrative units (SAUs) for their ongoing efforts to expand access to public pre-K. If your SAU plans to open or expand a pre-K program in the 2026-2027 school year, you are eligible to receive funding on your Fiscal Year 2027 (FY27) ED279 for the children enrolled in these new or expanded programs. This means that your SAU will receive pre-K funding in the same year that the children are enrolled, without a year’s delay. | More

Governor’s AI Task Force Education Recommendations Prioritize Innovation, Safety, and Student Well-Being

The Maine Department of Education (DOE) Learning Through Technology team is pleased to highlight recommendations of the Governor’s Artificial Intelligence (AI) Task Force, as they guide the responsible and equitable use of AI in education. These recommendations reflect many of the same priorities that guide the Maine DOE’s ongoing work to support educators, protect students, and ensure that technology enhances, rather than replaces, meaningful human-centered learning experiences. | More

Applications Open for Maine DOE 2025-2026 Student Cabinet

Maine DOE Recognizes National School Psychology Week from November 3-7, 2025

The Maine Department of Education (DOE) is joining the Maine Association of School Psychologists (MASP) and schools across the nation in celebrating National School Psychology Week (NSPW), observed from November 3-7, 2025. | More

Maine Schools Sharing Success Stories

Every Day Counts: SeDoMoCha Students Take Pride in Attendance

At SeDoMoCha Elementary School in RSU 68, showing up matters—and everyone takes notice. This year, students have taken an active role in making attendance a top priority. Each classroom tracks their daily attendance percentage and proudly posts it right outside of their classroom door for everyone to see. | More

Janneke Strickland of RSU 9 Named the 2025-2026 Maine School Nurse of the Year

The Maine Association of School Nurses (MASN) is proud to recognize Janneke Strickland of RSU 9’s Cascade Brook School as the 2025-2026 Maine School Nurse of the Year. | More

Submit good news to the Maine Department of Education here.

Professional Learning/Training Opportunities

View the Maine Department of Education’s Events Calendar here.

Career/Project Opportunities:

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Maine DOE Update – October 31, 2025

From the Maine Department of Education

News & Updates

FY27 Maine School Bus Purchasing Program Opens November 3; Informational Session Scheduled for November 5

The Maine School Bus Purchasing Program for fiscal year (FY) 2027 will open on Monday, November 3, and close on Tuesday, November 25. An informational session to review the application process is scheduled for Wednesday, November 5 at 1 p.m. | More

Maine DOE to Host Fourth Annual Computer Science Education Showcase During Education Symposium in December

Join educators and students from across Maine for an afternoon of computer science fun at the Maine Department of Education’s (DOE) fourth annual Computer Science Education Showcase on December 12 at the Cross Insurance Center in Bangor. This event is hosted by the Maine DOE, in partnership with Educate Maine, as part of the 2025 Educate Maine Annual Education Symposium. | More

Maine DOE Child Nutrition Programs Unaffected by SNAP

In anticipation of questions from the field, the Maine Department of Education (DOE) would like to assure school administrators that Child Nutrition Programs will continue to operate as usual. While the U.S. Department of Agriculture has notified states that Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits will not be issued for November, this does not affect school meal programs. Child Nutrition Programs and SNAP are administered separately, and school meal operations will not be affected by changes to federal SNAP benefits. | More

Submit a Design for the 2026 Maine Winter Classic T-Shirt!

The Maine Department of Education’s (DOE) Maine Learning Technology Initiative (MLTI) invites students from SAUs participating in the MLTI program to enter the 2026 Maine Winter Classic T-shirt design competition! The deadline to submit a T-shirt design is January 5, 2026. | More

Nominations Open for 2026 Maine School Counseling Awards

The Maine School Counselor Association (MESCA) is now accepting nominations for its 2026 School Counseling Awards, which honor outstanding counselors, colleagues, and leaders who make a difference in Maine schools and communities. | More

Maine Schools Sharing Success Stories

Noble High School Students Dive into Marine Science Through an Extended Learning Opportunity

Students at Noble High School with an interest in marine biology are getting their feet wet—sometimes literally—through a brand-new Marine Science Extended Learning Opportunity (ELO). | More

New “Learning from Maine” Video Series Showcasing Innovation in Maine Schools to Premiere on Maine Public Television November 6 and 7

Learning from Maine, a powerful new documentary video series created by Maine Loves Public Schools (MLPS), will air on Maine Public Television on Wednesday, November 6, at 8 p.m. and be rebroadcast on Thursday, November 7, at 2 p.m. It will feature innovative education stories from Limestone, Farmington, Portland, and Bethel. | More

Submit good news to the Maine Department of Education here.

Professional Learning/Training Opportunities

View the Maine Department of Education’s Events Calendar here.

Career/Project Opportunities:

Find education-related jobs in Maine.

Maine DOE Update – October 24, 2025

From the Maine Department of Education

News & Updates

Gorham Superintendent Heather Perry Named 2026 Maine Superintendent of the Year

The Maine School Superintendents Association (MSSA) has announced that Gorham School Department Superintendent Heather Perry has been named the 2026 Maine Superintendent of the Year. | More

RSU 34 Assistant Superintendent Jon Doty Named 2026 Maine Assistant Superintendent of the Year

The Maine School Superintendents Association (MSSA) has announced that RSU 34 Assistant Superintendent Jon Doty has been named the 2026 Maine Assistant Superintendent of the Year. | More

2025 Veterans Day Teacher’s Resource Guide Now Available

As the new school year gets underway and Veterans Day 2025 approaches, the Maine Department of Education (DOE) invites educators and communities to reflect with students on the meaning of this national observance. | More

Maine DOE Highlights Resources and Opportunities for Dyslexia Awareness Month

As part of the Maine Department of Education’s (DOE) mission to promote the best learning opportunities for all Maine students, the Maine DOE remains committed to supporting schools by offering resources that meet the needs of all families, students, caregivers, educators, and school systems. | More

Recognizing National School Bus Safety Week from October 20-24, 2025

From October 20-24, 2025, the Maine Department of Education (DOE) is recognizing National School Bus Safety Week, an annual observance dedicated to promoting the safety and well-being of the millions of students who depend on school transportation safety. | More

FAME Offers Free Resources to Help Maine Borrowers Manage Federal Student Loan Repayment

The Finance Authority of Maine (FAME) is offering various resources and opportunities to make federal student loan repayment more manageable and less overwhelming. Maine residents with federal student loans (“borrowers”) are encouraged to take advantage of FAME’s guidance, tools, and personalized support to better understand their options and stay on track with repayment. | More

Maine Surplus Offers Schools Access to Affordable Equipment, Furniture, and Supplies

Maine Surplus would like to remind educational institutions across the state that they are eligible to become donees and receive priority access to both state and federal surplus property—providing schools with affordable options to purchase or receive a wide range of useful equipment and supplies. | More

REMINDER: Public Comment Period for Proposed Rule Chapter 115 – The Credentialing of Education Personnel

In response to the 131st and 132nd Maine Legislature, the Maine State Board of Education is engaging in rulemaking to revise Chapter 115: The Credentialing of Education Personnel in alignment with its 2023 report to the Legislature. In that report, the State Board reviewed a number of credentialing topics, including pathways for specific endorsements. | More

Maine Schools Sharing Success Stories

The Pizza Men of Shooting Stars: How Two Scarborough Bus Drivers Deliver More Than Lunch

At the Shooting Stars Program for pre-K students in Scarborough, lunchtime is about a lot more than food—it is about smiles, laughter, and two beloved visitors who the children affectionately call, “The Pizza Men.” | More

A Space for Teens, Built by Teens: The Belfast Teen Center

In the middle of downtown Belfast, a new space has opened its doors. It is made for teenagers, by teenagers and is aptly named the Belfast Teen Center. In a time when it has become increasingly difficult for young people to find a safe, welcoming place to hang out, this is a rare and vital resource: a community hub where teens can gather after school. | More

Cultivating Calm: Pond Cove Elementary School’s K-4 Health and Wellness Program Builds Lifelong Skills

At Pond Cove Elementary School in the Cape Elizabeth School Department, students gain more than just academic knowledge; they’re learning essential tools to support their mental, emotional, and physical well-being. Pond Cove is one of the few elementary schools in Maine with a certified health educator leading a comprehensive Health and Wellness program. | More

On Mackworth Island, a School Builds Trust and Educator Pathways

When a deaf Teacher of the Deaf led a summer marine biology camp at the Maine Educational Center for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing/Governor Baxter School for the Deaf (MECDHH/GBSD), something remarkable happened. Students who typically relied on spoken English naturally shifted into American Sign Language (ASL), so that they could connect with their peers. | More

Lewiston Public Schools Strengthens Student Stability through Preventing Student Homelessness Grant

Lewiston Public Schools is making meaningful strides in supporting students and families through the Preventing Student Homelessness grant, turning critical funding into lasting impact. With innovative districtwide outreach and the creation of a robust Student Resource Center, Lewiston is ensuring that students can focus on learning, growth, and opportunity—not crisis survival. | More

Submit good news to the Maine Department of Education here.

Professional Learning/Training Opportunities

Professional Learning Series: Developing Individual Language Acquisition Plans (ILAPs) for Multilingual Learners with Collaboration and Instructional Planning in Mind

Are you new to Individual Language Acquisition Plans (ILAPS) or looking to strengthen your team’s approach? Do you serve a small multilingual learner population and want a practical framework that ensures compliance with state and federal guidelines and promotes student growth? If so, consider attending a two-part virtual series that the Maine Department of Education (DOE) is hosting to offer a clear, collaborative process for developing ILAPS that reflect each student’s language profile, strengths, and instructional needs. | More

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. | More

Maine DOE Launches Family Engagement Office Hour Series Starting October 30

The Maine Department of Education (DOE) Office of School and Student Supports is in year four of a five-year Statewide Family Engagement Center (SFEC) grant. For those interested in learning more about this grant and available upcoming resources, the Maine DOE will be providing a three-part Family Engagement Office Hour series throughout the 2025-2026 school year. The first session will be held on Thursday, October 30, 2025, from 3:30 to 4:15 p.m. virtually via Zoom. | More

Register Now for the 2025 Fall Alternative Education Association Conference

The Alternative Education Association (AEA) of Maine has announced that its fall conference will be held on Friday, November 14, 2025, at the Marti Stevens Learning Center in Skowhegan from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., with the theme “Connection!” | More

View the Maine Department of Education’s Events Calendar here.

Career/Project Opportunities:

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Maine DOE Update – October 17, 2025

From the Maine Department of Education

Data Reporting

Upcoming Fall Reports Due on October 30

The following Maine Department of Education (DOE) data reports are due for certification by school administrative units (SAUs) on October 30, 2025. All reports require review, validation, and certification by special education directors and superintendents. These reports have a direct impact on the Essential Programs and Services (EPS) subsidy. | More

News & Updates

RSU 16 Choral Music Teacher Julia Edwards Named 2026 Maine Teacher of the Year

The Maine Department of Education (DOE) and Educate Maine are excited to announce Bruce Whittier Middle School/Poland Regional High School choral music teacher Julia Edwards as the 2026 Maine Teacher of the Year. On Thursday, October 16, 2025, Edwards celebrated this award with fellow RSU 16 educators and students during a surprise ceremony in the Poland Regional High School gymnasium. | More

Collecting Student Economic Status Data for Essential Programs and Services Funding

Recognizing that school administrative units (SAUs) are in the midst of the fall data collection season, the Maine Department of Education (DOE) would like to clarify requirements related to the collection of student economic status data for the October 1 student enrollment report. | More

30-Day Comment Period for Master Contractual Agreement for Private Schools Offering Special Education Programs

The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) is a federal law that requires that state educational agencies (SEAs), including the Maine Department of Education (DOE), and local educational agencies (LEAs), including school administrative units (SAUs), ensure that all of the rights and protections are given to students with disabilities who are placed by their SAUs in a private school to receive a free appropriate public education (FAPE). When placing a child in a private school, the SAU must ensure that the student has the same rights and procedural safeguards as a child served by a public agency or school. | More

Suicide Prevention and Awareness Resources

As Maine schools get into the swing of the 2025-2026 school year, the Maine Department of Education (DOE) and the Maine Department of Health and Human Services Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) would like to share available resources to recognize, address, and support youth mental health. | More

REMINDER: Public Comment Period for Proposed Rule Chapter 115 – The Credentialing of Education Personnel

Maine Schools Sharing Success Stories

Submit good news to the Maine Department of Education here.

Professional Learning/Training Opportunities

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. | More

Maine DOE and Maine Community College System Host Statewide Virtual Showing of Counted Out Film Highlighting Math Literacy and Opportunity

The Maine Department of Education (DOE) and the Maine Community College System (MCCS) are inviting educators, families, and community members to a free statewide virtual showing of the film Counted Out on Tuesday, October 21, 2025, at 7 p.m. | More

View the Maine Department of Education’s Events Calendar here.

Career/Project Opportunities:

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Maine DOE Update – October 10, 2025

From the Maine Department of Education

Data Reporting

NEO Dropout Report Due Soon

The Maine Department of Education (DOE) Dropout Report is due to be certified by superintendents by Wednesday, October 15, 2025, in NEO. | More

News & Updates

Maine DOE Announces Plans to Strengthen ‘Back-to-Basics’ Reading and Math Skills

For the 2025-2026 school year, the Maine DOE has launched the Maine State Reading and Math Action Plans, twin initiatives to bring more evidence-based instruction, educator training, and academic partnerships into Maine classrooms to improve student skills in these core academic areas. | More

Maine Celebrates National School Lunch Week and Farm to CACFP Week, with Apple Crunch Day Slated for October 15

National School Lunch Week and Farm to CACFP Week will both be celebrated the week of October 13-17, 2025! This year, a special highlight to celebrate nutrition in Maine is Apple Crunch Day, slated for Wednesday, October 15, 2025. This is an engaging and fun event where children and adults across the state are invited to take big, crunchy bites out of fresh, local apples at the same time. | More

ADMINISTRATIVE LETTER: Legal Requirements to Provide English Language Acquisition Services to Students Who Are Multilingual Learners (Revised October 9, 2025)

Administrative Letter: #2
Policy Code: IHBEA
TO: Public School Administrators
DATE: August 22, 2019, Revised September 15, 2021, Revised June 21, 2023, Revised October 9, 2025
SUBJECT: The legal requirements for providing English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) services to students who are multilingual learners | More

Public Comment Period for Proposed Rule Chapter 115 – The Credentialing of Education Personnel

Deadline Extended for Attendance Messaging Campaign Logo Design Contest; Details on How Schools Can Submit

The Maine Department of Education (DOE) is pleased to announce that schools will have additional time to participate in the Maine DOE’s attendance messaging campaign. In September, MEAC invited schools across the state to host their own logo design contests based on this campaign name/slogan. Schools may determine the parameters of their contests. Their winning logo must be submitted to the Maine DOE by Friday, October 24, 2025, at 5 p.m. (extended from the original submission date of October 10). This is an excellent opportunity for potential statewide recognition, as we all consider our vital role in increasing attendance in Maine schools. | More

Maine Schools Sharing Success Stories

Maine Student Leader Nathan Prest Honored with 2025 FosterClub Outstanding Young Leader Award

The Maine Department of Education (DOE) is proud to celebrate Nathan Prest, a student leader and advocate, for being named a 2025 FosterClub Outstanding Young Leader. This national recognition honors exceptional youth with lived experience in foster care who are creating positive change in their communities. | More

“Civics on the Road” Launches at Main Street Middle School in Madison

The Maine Department of Education (DOE) Office of Teaching and Learning, in partnership with the Maine Department of the Secretary of State and the Maine Semiquincentennial Commission, launched its new traveling initiative “Civics on the Road” at Main Street Middle School in Madison in September. This program debuted on Constitution Day, September 17, 2025, immersing local fifth- and sixth-grade students in hands-on civic learning. | More

Submit good news to the Maine Department of Education here.

Professional Learning/Training Opportunities

Explore Innovation in Action: Maine DOE Fall Peer-to-Peer Learning Tour Registration Now Open

The Maine Department of Education (DOE) Office of Innovation is pleased to announce that this fall, there will be several opportunities for educators to engage in peer-to-peer learning that highlights innovative educational programming! | More

Asynchronous Professional Learning Opportunity: Exploring the Question Formulation Technique (QFT)

Starting October 21, 2025, the Maine Department of Education (DOE) Office of Teaching and Learning invites educators to explore the Question Formulation Technique (QFT), developed by the Right Question Institute. | More

Monthly Arts Integration Office Hours Available Starting in November

Do you have questions about arts integration? Are you looking for fresh ideas to make your lessons more engaging? Join Maine Department of Education (DOE) Arts Integration Teacher Leader Fellow Joshua Chard each month for an informal drop-in, virtual office hours—an open space to explore creative connections between the visual and performing arts and your teaching. | More

Informational Session on the Maine School Bus Purchasing Program

The Maine School Bus Purchasing Program will open on November 1, 2025, and close on November 25, 2025. Before then, please consider joining Cheryl Brackett, Maine Department of Education (DOE) Transportation Coordinator; Donna Tiner, Maine DOE School Finance Coordinator; and Kimberly Hall, Maine DOE Education Data Systems Manager, for a Maine School Bus Purchasing Program informational session on October 15, 2025, from 1-2 p.m. via Zoom. | More

View the Maine Department of Education’s Events Calendar here.