Maine DOE Update – February 13, 2026

From the Maine Department of Education

News & Updates

Maine Celebrates Career and Technical Education (CTE) Month in February

The Hall of Flags at the Maine State Capitol was buzzing with energy the week of February 9, 2026, as representatives from Career and Technical Education (CTE) schools, Maine Community College System (MCCS), Maine Administrators of Career and Technical Education (MACTE), SkillsUSA Maine, Maine’s FFA program, and other partners/supporters came together to celebrate Career and Technical Education (CTE) Month. | More

Later Secondary School Start Time Planning Grant; Informational Session on March 4

Pursuant to S.P. 182, L.D. 396, Resolve 2025, Chapter 110, the Maine Department of Education (DOE) is now accepting applications for a competitive, one-time funding opportunity for Maine school administrative units (SAUs) that are interested in collaborating to change school start times so that secondary schools begin at 8:30 a.m. or later. | More

Maine Students Invited to Participate in Youth Agriculture Policy Day on March 25 in Augusta

The Maine Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry (DACF), in partnership with the Maine Department of Education (DOE), Maine FFA, 4-H Cooperative Extension, and youth leaders from across the state, invites individual students to apply to participate in Youth Agriculture Policy Day at the State Capitol in Augusta. | More

Nominations Open for 2026 Governor’s Awards for Service and Volunteerism

The Maine Department of Education (DOE) is joining Volunteer Maine in encouraging schools across the state to submit nominations for the 2026 Governor’s Awards for Service and Volunteerism, which recognize outstanding individuals, teams, and organizations that are making a meaningful impact through volunteer service. Nominations are open now through March 9, 2026. | More

Maine Students Invited to Participate in National Civics Bee® Competition; Submission Deadline Extended

Due to the widespread impact of winter storms—including school closures, postal service delays, and power and internet outages—the National Civics Bee is implementing a one-time, nationwide extension of the 2026 essay submission deadline to Tuesday, February 17, 2026. | More

Maine Schools Sharing Success Stories

Lewiston High School Theater Students Inspire Connors Elementary School with Original Performance

In December, students in Lewiston High School’s Advanced Theater class brought creativity, collaboration, and joy to Connors Elementary School through a special performance of an original play, inspired by The Tortoise and the Hare. | More

Building Belonging and Improving Attendance at Eliot Elementary School

At Eliot Elementary School (EES), a dedicated team of educators is working intentionally to build trust and strong relationships with students from the moment they arrive, helping children to feel known, valued, and supported and want to come to school. This pre-K–grade 3 school serves approximately 275 students and is committed to fostering a safe, inclusive environment. With dedicated educators, supportive families, and strong community connections, EES is a place where students and staff grow together each day. | More

Q&A with Julia Edwards, Maine’s 2026 Teacher of the Year

Get to know 2026 Maine Teacher of the Year Julia Edwards, a choral music teacher at RSU 16’s Bruce Whittier Middle School and Poland Regional High School. Julia shares more about herself in this Q&A, as she begins her year of service. | More

Kathy McNamara of Montello Elementary School in Lewiston Named 2026 Maine School Counselor of the Year

The Maine Department of Education (DOE) joins the Maine School Counselor Association (MESCA) in congratulating Kathy McNamara, school counselor at Montello Elementary School in Lewiston, for being named 2026 Maine School Counselor of the Year. | More

Submit good news to the Maine Department of Education here.

Professional Learning/Training Opportunities

From Ideas to Impact: Early Learning Solutions Lab Community of Practice and Mini-Grant Opportunities

The Early Learning Team within the Maine Department of Education (DOE) Office of Teaching and Learning, in partnership with the Maine Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) Office of Child and Family Services, is offering a joint professional learning opportunity, designed to strengthen community-centered mixed-delivery systems. | More

Collaborative Learning Series – ‘Unlocking Multilingual Learners’ Potential: Strategies for Making Content Accessible’

Are you looking to deepen your understanding of evidence-based instructional practices for multilingual learners? Would dedicated time to collaborate with colleagues, reflect on practice, and translate research into actionable strategies for your classroom, school, or school administrative unit (SAU) be valuable? | More

Reminder: Register for the Second Annual Maine Inclusive Education Conference on April 8

Registration is now open for the second annual Maine Inclusive Education Conference, scheduled for Wednesday, April 8, 2026, at the Augusta Civic Center. | More

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

Career/Project Opportunities:

Find education-related jobs in Maine.

Maine DOE Update – February 6, 2026

From the Maine Department of Education

News & Updates

Maine DOE Encourages Mainers to Participate in 2026 Read to ME Challenge

The 2026 Read to ME Challenge, a month-long public awareness campaign designed to support literacy development among Maine children, is officially underway. Maine Department of Education (DOE) Commissioner Pender Makin launched the challenge on Monday, February 2, 2026, with a read-aloud to second- and third-grade students at the Tremont Consolidated School library in Bass Harbor. | More

Maine Launches Statewide Career Exploration Survey to Strengthen Resources and Opportunities for Students

Throughout Maine, schools and school administrative units (SAUs) are finding new and creative ways to help students explore careers, connect learning to real-world experiences, and prepare for life beyond the classroom. To better understand and strengthen these efforts, educators and education leaders are invited to participate in a brief Career Exploration Survey. | More

Energy Savings Funding Opportunities and Resources for Maine Schools

The Maine Department of Education (DOE) is pleased to share information about new funding opportunities and resources for Maine schools, as it pertains to energy savings. The following three items are intended to help school administrative units (SAUs) maximize their energy efficiency, save money, and reduce air pollution. | More

Student Opportunity: Applications Now Open for Free, Immersive Keller BLOOM Ocean Sciences Program

Do you know a Maine high school junior who’s passionate about science and curious about the ocean? Applications are now open for a no-cost, immersive ocean research experience through the Keller BLOOM Program, offered by the Bigelow Laboratory for Ocean Sciences. | More

Maine Schools Sharing Success Stories

PBIS in Action: How RSU 22 Is Building Positive School Culture District-Wide

Regional School Unit (RSU) 22 (Hampden, Newburgh, Winterport, and Frankfort) is making significant strides in creating a positive, student-centered culture, thanks to the Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) framework. | More

Submit good news to the Maine Department of Education here.

Professional Learning/Training Opportunities

Professional Learning Series – ‘Beyond Compliance: Integrated Supports for Multilingual Learners with Disabilities’

The Maine Department of Education (DOE) is offering a new, six-part professional learning series titled, “Beyond Compliance: Integrated Supports for Multilingual Learners with Disabilities,” to be facilitated by Maine DOE Teacher Leader Fellow Melissa Frans. | More

2026 For ME Instructional Programs Overview and Summer Training Opportunities; Informational Overview Rescheduled for February 9

Since 2018, the Maine Department of Education (DOE) has adapted and piloted the For ME Instructional Programs for early elementary grades (pre-K to grade 2), based on the Boston Public Schools’ evidence-based Focus Curricula. These open-source, developmentally appropriate instructional programs are interdisciplinary and align with Maine’s learning standards. | More

Register for the Second Annual Maine Inclusive Education Conference on April 8

Registration is now open for the second annual Maine Inclusive Education Conference, scheduled for Wednesday, April 8, 2026, at the Augusta Civic Center. | More

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

Career/Project Opportunities:

Find education-related jobs in Maine.

Maine DOE Update – January 30, 2026

From the Maine Department of Education

News & Updates

Maine DOE Seeks Organizations to Participate in Summer 2026 SUN Meals Program

The Maine Department of Education (DOE) is seeking organizations to help feed children this summer through the federally funded SUN Meals program—also known as the Summer Food Service Program (SFSP). Eligible organizations may apply to become a SUN Meals sponsor, providing healthy, free meals to children throughout the summer months when school is not in session. | More

2026 Maine School Counselor of the Year to Be Announced During National School Counseling Week (February 2-6, 2026)

The Maine Department of Education (DOE) is pleased to join the American School Counselor Association (ASCA) and the Maine School Counselor Association (MESCA) in celebrating National School Counseling Week from February 2-6, 2026. This year’s theme, “School Counselors Amplify Student Success,” focuses on the unique contribution of school counselors within U.S. school systems and highlights how students benefit from the services that school counselors provide. National School Counseling Week demonstrates the tremendous impact that school counselors have in helping students to achieve school success and plan for their careers. | More

Community Schools RFA Informational Session Recording Now Available

Pursuant to Title 20-A, §15689-A, the Commissioner of the Maine Department of Education (DOE) may provide funding to school administrative units (SAUs) to support the establishment of community schools. As such, the Maine DOE is currently accepting applications for funding from SAUs whose school boards have designated an existing school or established a new school as a community school. | More

Reminder: Guidance for Submitting Competitive Grant Applications Using Vendor Self Service

The State of Maine now uses Vendor Self Service (VSS) for all competitive procurement. As such, Maine school administrative units (SAUs) are asked to please use VSS to submit applications for and questions about all competitive grant opportunities (also known as Requests for Applications—RFAs). If an applicant emails a question about an RFA directly to the listed RFA coordinator, their application will not be disqualified; however, they will be redirected to submit their question through VSS. | More

Reminder: Nominations Open 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

Maine Schools Sharing Success Stories

Camden Rockport Middle School Student Wins 2026 MLTI Maine Winter Classic T-Shirt Design Contest

Congratulations to Camden Rockport Middle School sixth-grade student Hannah Smith, who was selected as the winner of this year’s t-shirt design contest for the 2026 Maine Learning Technology Initiative (MLTI) Maine Winter Classic! Smith’s design will appear on the official t-shirt for the event, which will take place virtually in schools across Maine from March 2-6, 2026. | More

Submit good news to the Maine Department of Education here.

Professional Learning/Training Opportunities

Maine to Host CyberStorm ’26, Third Annual Tabletop Exercise to Strengthen School Cyber Preparedness

Maine education, technology, and cybersecurity partners will bring together school leaders on February 12, 2026, for CyberStorm ’26, the state’s third annual statewide school cybersecurity tabletop exercise, focused on strengthening readiness, coordination, and response across Maine’s school systems. This statewide cyber “fire drill” for elementary and secondary schools still has registration spots available to school administrative units (SAUs) that would like to participate. | More

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

Career/Project Opportunities:

Find education-related jobs in Maine.

Maine DOE Update – January 23, 2026

From the Maine Department of Education

News & Updates

Submit a T-Shirt Design to Represent the 2026 MLTI Student Conference – ‘Full STEAM Ahead’

The Maine Learning Technology Initiative (MLTI), an initiative of the Maine Department of Education (DOE) Office of Teaching and Learning, is excited to announce a T-shirt design competition for the 23rd annual MLTI Student Conference, to be held on May 21, 2026. The conference theme this year is “Full STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) Ahead.” | More

Reminder: Guidance for Submitting Competitive Grant Applications Using Vendor Self Service

Reminder: Nominations Open for State/County Teacher of the Year

Maine Schools Sharing Success Stories

Reimagining Recess at Noble Intermediate School: Building Skills Through Play

At Noble Intermediate School in MSAD 60, recess is no longer just a break in the day; it’s an opportunity to build skills, strengthen relationships, and support student wellness. This school year, more than 400 fifth- and sixth-grade students and 40 staff members are reimagining what wellness looks like through a new approach to play and engagement. | More

Community Regional Charter School Spreads Holiday Cheer Through First-Ever ‘Giving Room’

The holiday season is often filled with joy and celebration, but it can also bring added worry for some families, as they work to maintain cherished traditions during the darker, colder days of winter. Recognizing the financial pressures that many families face during this time of year, Community Regional Charter School (CRCS) came up with a new initiative, designed to uplift its community through support, connection, and generosity. | More

Submit good news to the Maine Department of Education here.

Professional Learning/Training Opportunities

2026 For ME Instructional Programs Overview and Summer Training Opportunities; Informational Overview Rescheduled for February 9

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

Career/Project Opportunities:

2026 For Job Posting: VISTA Maine Green Schools Network Coordinator

The Maine Department of Education (DOE) Office of Innovation is seeking a full-time VISTA member to help organize and build the new Green Schools Network (GSN), as established in Title 20-A, Chapter 335: Maine Green Schools Network. | More

Find education-related jobs in Maine.

Maine DOE Update – January 16, 2026

From the Maine Department of Education

News & Updates

Maine DOE Seeks Educators to Enhance MOOSE Module Supports

The Maine Department of Education (DOE) is seeking educators to support the iteration and improvement of existing MOOSE (Maine Online Open-Source Education) modules, including the development of accompanying educator resources. | More

Community Schools Grant Opportunity

Pursuant to Title 20-A, §15689-A, the Commissioner of the Maine Department of Education (DOE) may provide funding to school administrative units (SAUs) to support the establishment of community school(s). As such, the Maine DOE is currently accepting applications for funding from SAUs whose school boards have designated an existing school or established a new school as a community school. | More

Blending Indigenous Knowledge and Modern Science: Maine DOE Releases “Maple Bytes” Interdisciplinary Instructional Program

The Maine Department of Education (DOE) Office of Teaching and Learning has released a new, innovative interdisciplinary instructional program called “Maple Bytes,” which provides Maine educators with the opportunity to engage students in a unique, hands-on learning experience that blends computer science, Wabanaki studies, and earth sciences.| More

2026 MLTI Student Conference – Full STEAM Ahead: Call for Session Proposals

The Maine Department of Education (DOE) Office of Teaching and Learning is pleased to issue a call for session proposals for the 2026 MLTI Student Conference. This annual event is organized by the Maine DOE Learning Through Technology team as part of the Maine Learning Technology Initiative (MLTI). This year’s conference will be held in person on Thursday, May 21, 2026, at the University of Maine campus in Orono and is open to students in grades 5-10 from all MLTI school administrative units (SAUs). | More

Opportunity for Public Feedback – Later Start Time Planning Grants

In accordance with Resolve 2025, Chapter 110: Directing the Department of Education to Develop a Grant Program to Encourage Secondary Schools to Adopt Later Start Times, the Maine Department of Education (DOE) is opening a period of public comment for the proposed routine technical rule regarding later start time planning grants. The proposed rule (Chapter 54) will govern the application for, and awarding of, funds from the Maine DOE discretionary grants for later start time planning. Grants are intended to assist in the financing of local initiatives; the Maine DOE encourages school administrative units (SAUs) to collaborate on these efforts. | More

Applications Open for Student Position on Maine State Board of Education

The Maine State Board of Education is currently seeking applications for its newest student member. Applications are open through Friday, February 13, 2026. Applications are being accepted from current high school sophomores who attend public school in the Second Congressional District. | More

Schools and SAUs Invited to Host AmeriCorps Members for 2026-2027 Program Year

Schools and school administrative units (SAUs) across Maine are invited to explore an opportunity to build local capacity and deepen community impact by hosting an AmeriCorps member during the 2026-2027 program year through Goodwill Industries of Northern New England (NNE). | More

Maine Students Invited to Contribute to National Youth Artifact for the 250th Anniversary of the Signing of the Declaration of Independence

The Maine Department of Education (DOE) is pleased to share a new civic learning opportunity for Maine educators and students: MY AMERICA: From Ground Zero to Common Ground, a nationwide, youth-driven art and civic engagement campaign taking place during a period of national reflection in 2026. | More

FedPoint Accepting Applications from High School Seniors for Nursing Scholarships

FedPoint, a federal benefits administrator and marketplace operator, is accepting applications for its annual nursing scholarships program. Four $5,000 scholarships will be announced in early May. Applications must be submitted by Sunday, March 20, 2026. | More

Reminder: Guidance for Submitting Competitive Grant Applications Using Vendor Self Service

Reminder: Nominations Open for State/County Teacher of the Year

Maine Schools Sharing Success Stories

PBIS in Action: How Portland Public Schools Is Transforming School Culture

At Portland Public Schools, the journey to creating joyful, supportive, and safe learning environments took a major step forward when Positive Behavior Interventions and Supports (PBIS) moved from scattered, school-level efforts to a central part of the district’s Strategic Plan. Schools in Portland had been using elements of PBIS for some time, but two years ago, the district officially named PBIS under its “Whole Student, Connected Community” goal, providing clarity, purpose, and district-wide momentum. | More

Submit good news to the Maine Department of Education here.

Professional Learning/Training Opportunities

Register for the Second Annual Maine Inclusive Education Conference on April 8

Registration is now open for the second annual Maine Inclusive Education Conference, scheduled for Wednesday, April 8, 2026, at the Augusta Civic Center. This year’s conference theme is, “Reimagining Education: We Are Better Together!” The event will provide school communities (i.e., educators, administrators, families, and students) with the tools necessary to collaborate to support every student—particularly those with disabilities—to ensure that all students have the support they need to build inclusive, meaningful futures. | More

2026 For ME Instructional Programs Overview and Summer Training Opportunities

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

Career/Project Opportunities:

Find education-related jobs in Maine.

Maine DOE Update – January 9, 2026

From the Maine Department of Education

News & Updates

Grants for After-School and Summer-Learning Programs Now Available; Applications Due April 7, 2026

The Maine Department of Education (DOE) is pleased to announce the release of a request for proposals (RFP), seeking bids from organizations interested in implementing comprehensive after-school and summer-learning programs during the 2026-2027 academic year. It is anticipated that approximately $1.75 million will be available in grant awards this spring as part of the 21st Century Community Learning Centers (21st CCLC) program. | More

Maine DOE Recruiting Educators for High-Quality Instructional Material Capacity-Building Cohort

The Maine Department of Education (DOE) is recruiting 30 certified educators to participate in a statewide capacity-building cohort, a key component of Maine’s coordinated Literacy and Numeracy Action Plans. These plans outline a comprehensive system of supports designed to develop lifelong learners who can engage confidently and competently with the world through strong reading and math skills. | More

Maine DOE Launches Second Year of Pine Tree Programming, Expanding Hands-On Computer Science Opportunities for Students Across Maine

The Maine Department of Education (DOE) Learning Through Technology team is excited to announce the launch of the second year of Pine Tree Programming, a statewide initiative designed to expand access to high-quality computer science education. Building on a successful first year that introduced more than 500 students to coding across 44 schools, Pine Tree Programming is returning with even more opportunities for Maine students. | More

Get Ready for the 11th Annual Read to ME Challenge in February!

For the 11th consecutive year, the Maine Department of Education (DOE) is partnering with schools and community organizations across the state to promote the Read to ME Challenge, a month-long public awareness campaign held in February. | More

Additional 30-Day Comment Period for Revised Master Contractual Agreements for Private Schools Offering Special Education Programs!

The Maine Department of Education (DOE) is providing a second 30-day comment period regarding master contractual agreements for private schools offering special education programs. During the first comment period in October 2025, many of you outlined similar observations, suggestions, and concerns. The Maine DOE used that feedback (posted here) to significantly revise the master contractual agreement. | More

Guidance for Submitting Competitive Grant Applications Using Vendor Self Service

School Interest Form Available for 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. A school interest form is now available for those planning to bring students to the event. | More

Nominations Open for 2026 Outstanding Early Childhood Professionals Spotlight

Do you know an outstanding early childhood professional who works with children from birth through age eight (8) in a childcare program, public school, private school, or home-visiting setting? If so, please consider nominating them for the 2026 Week of the Young Child® Outstanding Early Childhood Professionals Spotlight. The nomination deadline is February 13, 2026. | More

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

Maine Students Invited to Participate in National Civics Bee® Competition

The Maine State Chamber of Commerce, in partnership with the Mid-Maine Chamber of Commerce and the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation, is bringing the National Civics Bee® to Maine—offering middle school students a new opportunity to strengthen their civic knowledge and engage in meaningful learning about democracy, community, and citizenship. | More

Maine Schools Sharing Success Stories

Maine Adult Education Educator Julie Berube Honored with National Barbara Bush Fund for Family Literacy Grant

The Maine Department of Education (DOE) is proud to recognize Julie Berube, Coordinator of the First Teachers Family Literacy Program at Biddeford Adult Education, as a recipient of a $10,000 national grant from the newly established Barbara Bush Fund for Family Literacy, an initiative of the George and Barbara Bush Foundation. | More

Princeton Elementary Showcases Hands-On STEAM Learning Through Maine DOE Learning Tour

On December 9, 2025, Princeton Elementary School teacher Donna Netzer opened her classroom to educators from across Maine, as she demonstrated ways to incorporate numerous Science, Technology, Engineering, the Arts, and Mathematics (STEAM) technologies into the typical educational environment. This presentation was part of the Maine Department of Education (DOE) Office of Innovation’s latest Learning Tour, an opportunity for educators to participate in peer-to-peer learning. | More

A Look Back: Maine FFA Celebrates the Year of Youth in Agriculture

Nearly a year ago, on January 14, 2025, Governor Janet Mills signed a proclamation officially designating 2025 as the Maine Year of Youth in Agriculture. This action launched a series of statewide initiatives designed to engage and support young agriculturalists through enhanced access to resources, mentorship opportunities, and networking experiences. | More

Maine Association for Health, Physical Education, Recreation, and Dance Announces 2025 Awardees

The Maine Association for Health, Physical Education, Recreation, and Dance (Maine AHPERD) has announced the recipients of its 2025 Teacher of the Year awards, as well as recognition awards for Individual and Community Partner Organizations and Outstanding Future Professionals in the areas of Health Education and Physical Education. | More

Youth Leaders from Maine and New Hampshire Gather for ‘Can We? Connect’ at Augusta Civic Center

An early December snowstorm didn’t stop nearly 300 students and educators from 17 high schools across Maine and New Hampshire from coming together on December 11, 2025, at the Augusta Civic Center for Can We? Connect, a day of youth-led dialogue and educator professional learning produced by The Can We? Project. | More

Jordan-Small Middle School Pilots Innovative Outdoor Education Program Through Science Curriculum

At Jordan-Small Middle School (JSMS) in RSU 14, teacher Jed Bloom’s science classes no longer stop at the classroom door. This past fall, sixth-, seventh-, and eighth-grade students stepped into the woods on district property as part of a pilot outdoor education program that blends science instruction with nature-based exploration, hands-on projects, and plenty of fresh air. | More

Submit good news to the Maine Department of Education here.

Professional Learning/Training Opportunities

Maine DOE Offers Variety of Literacy Learning Opportunities Aligned to Maine’s Statewide Action Plans

The Maine Department of Education (DOE) Office of Teaching and Learning invites educators from across the state to engage in literacy learning opportunities that are thoughtfully aligned to Maine’s statewide Action Plans. | More

Maine DOE Offers Variety of Numeracy Learning Opportunities Aligned to Maine’s Statewide Action Plans

The Maine Department of Education (DOE) Office of Teaching and Learning invites educators from across the state to engage in numeracy learning opportunities that are thoughtfully aligned to Maine’s statewide Action Plans. | More

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

Career/Project Opportunities:

Find education-related jobs in Maine.

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

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

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

Career/Project Opportunities:

Find education-related jobs in Maine.

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 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:

Find education-related jobs in Maine.

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.