Maine DOE Update – June 14, 2024

From the Maine Department of Education

Reporting Items

News & Updates

Maine Department of Education Offers Educators Free Access to Evidence-Based Literacy Modules

To support educators in providing evidence-based literacy instruction, the Maine Department of Education (DOE) announced that all K-5 educators have free access to high-quality literacy modules through June of 2025. Educators who complete the modules by August 23, 2024, will be eligible to receive a stipend for each completed module. | More

Child Nutrition Programs Continue to Feed Children Beyond School Year with the Hot Lunch Summer Food Service Program and SUN Bucks

With the assistance of the U.S. Department of Agriculture, Maine public schools have long offered a nutritious breakfast and lunch meal program to thousands of children in Maine during the school year. In Maine, students have access to meals during the school day at no cost to them or their families. With summer around the corner, students can still access the meals they need through the Summer Food Service Program. This U.S. Department of Agriculture program operates at hundreds of sites across Maine. | More

Maine DOE Highlights Expanding Health Resource Access to Multilingual Families in Maine

In alignment with supporting a culture of innovation and continuous improvement, new tools have been created for school nurses. This newest project directly reflects the advocacy and care our Maine school nurses possess, further strengthening our public health infrastructure. | More

Maine Schools Sharing Success Stories

Eight Maine Students Awarded Martin Mackey Memorial Scholarship

The Alternative Education Association of Maine has selected eight students to receive this year’s Martin Mackey Memorial Scholarship. Each student will be awarded $500 when they graduate. Each graduate’s inspirational story and passion for their education make them more than deserving of this award. | More

Bucksport Eighth Graders Unplug and Help Out During Camping Trip at Birch Point Beach State Park

This May, eighth graders from Bucksport Middle School left the screens behind for a weekend of learning and service at Birch Point Beach State Park in Owls Head. Miles Bisher, Bucksport Middle School’s social studies teacher and outdoor club advisor, brought his students out as part of the Teens to Trails’ Life Happens Outside® Challenge, one of the Maine Outdoor Learning Initiative’s 2024 programs. | More

TeachWithTech Grant Allows for Enthusiastic, Independent Learning with Lego Sets at Chelsea Elementary School

Students at Chelsea Elementary School were overjoyed at the sight of twenty new Lego sets as they walked into the classroom this year. Through the Maine Department of Education’s TeachWithTech grant, Chelsea Elementary School was able to receive twenty Lego SPIKE Essentials Kits. These Lego sets were accompanied by iPads, which were preloaded with the SPIKE app. | More

Maine DOE ConCEPT Pilot Spotlight: A Transformative Professional Learning Journey

This year has been transformative for Leslie Denton, the seventh-grade English Language Arts (ELA) teacher at Mt. View Middle School in Thorndike. Leslie’s professional learning journey, marked by a commitment to the principles of Universal Design for Learning (UDL), was significantly influenced by her attendance at a ConCEPT Professional Development conference hosted by the Maine Department of Education. The conference, featuring renowned educator Katie Novak, equipped Leslie with valuable skills and strategies that she diligently implemented. | More

Maine DOE ConCEPT Pilot Spotlight: A Successful Intersection of Curiosity and Learning

The Maine Department of Education’s innovative ConCEPT Pilot program has yielded remarkable outcomes, as schools across the state have explored new ways to engage students through questioning protocols and scaffolding conceptual understandings into lessons. | More

| Submit your Maine School Success Story |

Professional Development, Training, and Events

Registration Now Open for Maine Department of Education 2024 Annual Summit

2024 Annual Summit Theme: Supporting the Whole Student and School Community. Registration is now open for the 2024 Maine Department of Education (DOE) Annual Summit held August 6th – 8th at the Augusta Civic Center. Sessions take place from 7 am to 5 pm each day. Breakfast and lunch are included in the registration fee of $150 for all three days. This year’s event features an all-in-one events app, over 150 session options with contact hours, four engaging keynote speakers, in addition to several mini-summits and other training options available during the event – Register today! | More

Professional Development Conference For Rural Maine Educators

Island Readers & Writers (IRW) will host the Dear Teacher Conference in Bangor on October 10 and 11, 2024, for educators and librarians working with students in grades Pre–K through 8. | More

Be a Part of Family Math Community of Practice

The Maine Department of Education (DOE) is seeking a total of 24 Elementary School educators to participate in a Family Math Community of Practice. This opportunity will provide valuable information and resources to bolster educators’ participation in the growing movement known as Family Math.| More

| Visit the Professional Development Calendar |

Latest DOE Career/Project Opportunities:

Seeking Applicants for Maine DOE Mobile Learning Program Director

The Maine Department of Education (DOE) seeks a passionate Educator and Curriculum Developer to join our dedicated educational team in the Office of Teaching and Learning. This one-year contracted position will be instrumental in advancing the state’s commitment to fostering an inclusive, well-rounded educational experience that supports every student’s academic, social, emotional, and physical development. This position will lead the Maine DOE’s mobile learning program that will work with teams within the Maine DOE and Maine educators to develop career-focused, interdisciplinary, project-based, and experiential learning experiences to share with classroom teachers. | More

View current Maine Department of Education employment opportunities here

Maine DOE Update – June 7, 2024

From the Maine Department of Education

Reporting Items

Due Soon: ESEA Demographics Report

The ESEA Demographics Report is an aggregation of students enrolled on 5/31* for participation in state assessments during the current assessment administration. This report includes student demographic categories for assessment and accountability purposes. | More

Due Dates & Resources for Quarter End-of-Year Reports

Four end-of-year reports require certification in June and July. These reports aggregate data from the entire school year’s reporting timeframe. | More

State Reporting Summer Training

Mark your calendars! Registration for the Data Summer Training is currently open! Trainings are scheduled at varying locations across the state from July 29th to August 1st and August 12th to August 15th. This year’s training will focus on reporting resource updates, guidance for data reporting best practices, and assistance with student enrollment. We look forward to providing this opportunity to meet with school administrative units to network and collaborate. | More

| Visit the DC&R Reporting Calendar |

News & Updates

Maine DOE Introduces 7 Interns this Summer

The Maine Department of Education (DOE) is welcoming seven new interns for the summer. The student interns, who will be working on a variety of teams at the Maine DOE, were selected for the Maine Government Summer Internship Program by the Margaret Chase Smith Policy Center at the University of Maine. Maine DOE’s interns will spend the summer assisting with daily operations, projects, events, and other meaningful work while gaining knowledge, connections, and professional experience at the Maine DOE this summer. | More

Maine Students Explore Postsecondary Life at the First Annual Transition Maine Youth Summit

The Maine Department of Education’s (DOE) Office of Special Services and Inclusive Education held its first annual Transition Maine Youth Summit at Central Maine Community College on Thursday, May 30th. Students with disabilities from all over Maine had the chance to explore nearly two dozen career pathways and engage with professionals and peers about post-secondary life.| More

Maine DOE Seeking Members for SEL4ME State Advisory Team

The Maine DOE is currently recruiting members for our SEL4ME State Advisory Team. As a critical partner in Maine’s education field, we invite you to serve in an advisory capacity to share your expertise. We will work to review SEL4ME modules, making informed improvements to the efficacy of this resource with updates to meet current knowledge about supportive SEL practices and cultural responsiveness. | More

100 Child and Adult Care Food Program Sponsors and Providers Attend Maine DOE Annual Training

The Maine Department of Education’s (DOE) Child and Adult Care Food Program team recently hosted 100 of Maine’s child and adult care sponsors and providers for the CACFP Annual Training. The Child and Adult Care Food Program, a program of the U.S. Department of Agriculture administered by participating states, provides reimbursements for meals and snacks to eligible children and adults enrolled in care at participating child care centers, in-home daycares, and adult daycare centers. | More

Maine Schools Sharing Success Stories

MADSEC Names 2024 Special Education Honorees of the Year

Every year, the Maine Administrators of Services for Children with Disabilities (MADSEC) announces Honorees of the Year, who are individuals who work in the field of Special Education within Maine schools.The Maine Department of Education (DOE) joins MADSEC in congratulating the 2023-24 awardees in addition to thanking all educators within the Special Education division. Congratulations to Angela, Kendra, Scott, and Erin, and read more about them below. | More

Turner Elementary School Principal Shares How She Increased the Feeling of Safety at School

Working with the students is what Kristen Levesque, Principal of Turner Elementary School in MSAD 52, describes as the absolute best part of her job. However, she knows that to successfully reach students meaningfully at school, everyone in the building needs to feel safe. | More

Bon Voyage! Bath Students Headed to Paris

Three students from Morse High School have won the 2024 French American Friendship Contest sponsored by The French Consulate in Boston. This esteemed competition, open to high school students studying French and their teachers across New England, is a testament to the enduring bond between France and the United States. | More

Maine Employer Summit Engages Youth to Tackle Workforce Challenges

More than 500 employers and young people recently gathered at Bangor’s Cross Insurance Arena for the Maine Employer Summit. Hosted by the Maine Department of Labor and the Maine Department of Economic Development, the event provided a vital platform for employers seeking resources and solutions to pressing workforce challenges. Participants also had the opportunity to connect with young professionals, government agencies, State of Maine resources, and fellow business leaders to explore workforce opportunities. | More

| Submit your Maine School Success Story |

Professional Development, Training, and Events

Registration Now Open for Maine Department of Education 2024 Annual Summit

Leveling Up Literacy in Maine: Free Self-Paced Modules for Maine Educators this Summer

The Mane DOE is pleased to announce a free professional development opportunity for Maine educators working in Kindergarten–Grade 5 regular and special education settings. These self-paced, asynchronous, evidence-based literacy modules will be available to educators from June 12, 2024 to June 11, 2025. *Limited Time – Educator Stipends Available for Modules Completed Prior to August 23, 2024. | More

Asynchronous Course: Introduction to the Question Formulation Technique

The Maine Department of Education (DOE)  Interdisciplinary Instruction Team is hosting two summer courses called Question, Reflect, Repeat: Introduction to the Question Formulation Technique. The Question Formulation Technique is a powerful strategy to help students and adults ask their own questions, advocate for themselves, and participate in decision-making processes. | More

Celebrate Success, Foster Sustainability at the 2024 Maine ELO Summit!

Calling all Maine educators! Join your colleagues for the 2024 Maine ELO Summit, taking place on August 13th at the Brunswick Hotel. This year’s theme, “Celebrating Success, Fostering Sustainability,” promises an inspiring day filled with valuable insights and discussions on Extended Learning Opportunities (ELOs). The summit is open to all Maine school personnel and supporting partners. Registration and meals are fully covered by JMG with support from the Maine Department of Education (DOE). | More

Leading Early Learning Fellowship—A Professional Learning Series for Elementary School Administrators

As Maine elementary schools have added preschool programming and are promoting whole student approaches across the Pre-K -Grade 3 span, elementary principals have requested professional learning to support their work as educational leaders. The Maine Department of Education and several Maine educational organizations (listed below) have collaborated to design an exciting professional learning series to address identified needs and support professional growth. To date, the Leading Early Learning Fellowship series has supported three cohorts, one each year since 2021-22. We are pleased to announce that applications for the fourth cohort, 2024-25 school year, are now being accepted. | More

No Cost Professional Learning Course: Visual Access to Mathematics Focused on Multilingual Learners

Grade 6 and 7 mathematics teachers in Maine are invited to register for a FREE professional learning course focused on visual representations to support mathematical problem solving and communication and led by Pam Buffington and Johannah Nikula from the Education Development Center. | More

| Visit the Professional Development Calendar |

Latest DOE Career/Project Opportunities:

View current Maine Department of Education employment opportunities here

Maine DOE Update May 10, 2024

From the Maine Department of Education

Reporting Items

Maine DOE Data Management Reports Opening Soon: Maine School Approval & ESEA Demographics Report

The following two Maine DOE Data Management Reports will open soon. Maine School Approval opens 5/15, and ESEA Demographics opens 5/15. | More

| Visit the DC&R Reporting Calendar |

News & Updates

Maine’s 2024 County Teachers of the Year Announced

Sixteen Maine teachers were announced as 2024 County Teachers of the Year at a ceremony in the Hall of Flags at the Maine State Capitol during Teacher Appreciation Week. Governor Janet Mills joined Maine Department of Education Commissioner Pender Makin, Educate Maine Executive Director Jason Judd, State Board of Education Chair Fern Desjardins, 2024 Maine Teacher of the Year Joshua Chard, and Maine County and State Teachers of the Year Association Co-President Hillary Bellefleur to announce and honor the new class of County Teachers of the Year. | More

Maine DOE and Live and Work in Maine Launch New Phase of Nationwide “Live and Teach in Maine” Campaign

To kick off Teacher Appreciation Week, the Maine Department of Education (DOE) and Live and Work in Maine joined teachers and education supporters to launch the second year of their Live and Teach in Maine campaign. At an event at Portland International Jetport, Live and Work and the Maine DOE unveiled new Jetport ads that highlight the unique benefits of teaching and schools in Maine. | More

Maine Solutionaries: How Maine Educators are Learning to Support the Leaders of Tomorrow

More than 40 Maine educators came together recently for the first of four Maine Solutionaries project kick-offs. Guided by the Institute for Humane Education, these educators learned how to use the curriculum to empower students to solve the real-life problems they care about in their schools and communities.| More

Maine DOE Seeking Public Comments for a Tydings Amendment Waiver of FY22 American Rescue Plan (ARP) Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief (ESSER) Administrative Funds

Pursuant to the authority granted under section 8401(b) of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESEA), the Maine Department of Education (DOE) intends to apply for a Tydings Amendment waiver from the U.S. Department of Education (USDOE). As required, the Maine DOE is seeking 15 days of public comment from May 8, 2024 – May 23, 2024, on the request to waive the period of availability for ARP ESSER state administrative funds. | More

Application Deadline Extended to May 15 for the ‘Maine Out-of-School-Time’ Career Exploration Grants

Apply Now! Schools, community-based organizations, and childcare providers can apply for the 2024 Maine Out-of-School Time Career Exploration grants through the Maine Department of Education (DOE). These grants support meaningful career exploration opportunities for students in grades 4 – 6 that connect students with Maine businesses and career opportunities, which may include experiential learning trips, guest speakers, job shadows, and more! Underlying these experiences is critical to helping students build and strengthen relationships with caring adults and peers in their schools, childcare centers, and communities. | More

Highlighting the Role of School Nurses Through the School Health Annual Report

The Maine Department of Education (DOE) is highlighting the important work of school nurses this week in celebration of School Nurse Day on May 8. For over 120 years, school nurses have been critical to all aspects of student health, including improving public health. Each year, school nurses statewide complete the School Health Annual Report. It is used to satisfy the requirements for health-related data collection, which includes emergency medication administration, vision and hearing screening data, and other points. | More

RSU 75 School Team Crowned the 2024 Maine DOE Farm to School Cook-off Champion

Teams representing RSU 75, Lewiston Public Schools and Auburn Public Schools, and consisting of one school nutrition employee and one student, sharpened their knives and skills for a fun day of cooking. They whipped up vegetarian and meat-based dishes using local tofu donated from Heiwa Tofu in Rockport and local chicken donated from Maine Family Farms in Portland; both of which were challenge ingredients for the competition. The dishes were scored based on presentation, taste, creative use of challenge ingredients, and feasibility to be used in a school kitchen. | More

Maine Schools Sharing Success Stories

Mt. Blue Nurse Team Boosts School Health and Safety with CPR/AED Training for Educators

As the state of emergency brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic gradually quelled, the Mt Blue Regional School District nurse team could finally catch their breath and refocus on the projects they had put on hold amidst the crisis. | More

Mt. Ararat ELO Coordinator Partners with Local Credit Unions to Empower Tomorrow’s Financially Savvy Generation

During financial literacy month in April, Doug Ware, the Extended Learning Opportunities (ELO) Coordinator at Mount Ararat High School, hosted a Financial Fitness Fair for the junior class. | More

Lincoln Academy Hosts 30 Businesses at 3rd Annual Peter J. Benner Job Fair for Students in the Region

This spring, Lincoln Academy hosted its third annual Peter J. Benner ‘92 Job Fair in Nelson Bailey Gym. Lincoln Academy students, as well as students from Wiscasset Middle High School and AOS 93, were invited to meet local employers. | More

Game Night at Beech Hill School Brings Together Families, Community, and Alum in Otis

Beech Hill School in Otis, Maine, hosted its first-ever Game On! The “Family Gala” event brought together students, staff, and families for a fun-filled community event, with attendees enjoying an evening of classic games and good company. From Checkers to Connect 4, LCR to Battleship, giant versions of Sorry, Candy Land, and Jenga to an UNO tournament, the event had something for everyone. The Beech Hill School gymnasium was transformed into a game room with board games, card games, and other fun activities. | More

Two Maine Students Named 2024 U.S. Presidential Scholars – Congratulations to these students!

U.S. Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona today announced the 2024 U.S. Presidential Scholars, recognizing 161 high school seniors for their accomplishments in academics, the arts, and career and technical education fields. The Maine scholars include Isaac N. Kahn, Kennebunk High School, Kennebunk, Maine, and Kylie Jade Thibodeau, Gray New Gloucester High School, Gray, Maine. | More

| Submit your Maine School Success Story |

Professional Development, Training, and Events

Webinar: Fabulous Field Trips in Maine

Some of the most memorable experiences students have occur outside the classroom on field trips. This webinar hosted by Civics Teacher Leader Fellow Jessica Graham and Humanities Teacher Leader Fellows Dorie Tripp and Jim St. Pierre, will cover an array of beneficial field trips around Maine. This webinar will cover not only the field trips, but how to organize them and how to find grants that will pay for them. We hope you will attend and offer your own ideas for meaningful field trips. | More

Inclusive Education Webinar Series: The Way to Inclusion on May 22

The Office of Special Services and Inclusive Education invites you to join us in the first two webinars in our “Inclusive Education Webinar Series” presented by Dr. Kate Macleod, an innovative inclusive educator, researcher, author, and assistant professor of special education at the University of Maine Farmington. | More

(Registration Deadline Extended) Maine DOE and DHHS to Offer Early Childhood Summer Regional Summit Events With Mini Grant Opportunity

The Maine Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) are offering the opportunity for a summer summit series in 2024 and 2025 to support communities in their local system alignment and coordination for early childhood care and education programming from birth through the early elementary years. Teams accepted to participate in the summit will also be awarded $800 mini grants to support their efforts in developing and implementing action plans to address an identified early care and education need in their communities. | More

The Well-Being for Educators Summer Institute Offered by St. Joseph College

Members of the Maine Department of Education Office of School and Student Supports serve on St. Joseph College’s advisory board for the Well-Being for Educators Summer Institute and will be present at the Summit to offer information and professional learning. | More

| Visit the Professional Development Calendar |

Latest DOE Career/Project Opportunities:

View current Maine Department of Education employment opportunities here

Maine DOE Update – April 26, 2024

From the Maine Department of Education

Reporting Items

Upcoming Data Reporting Webinars

The Maine Department of Education (DOE) Data Team has scheduled the following data reporting webinars for this spring. | More

| Visit the DC&R Reporting Calendar |

News & Updates

DOE Podcast What Holds Us Together Highlights Efforts to Elevate Educators and Schools

Public education is the cornerstone of our society and holds us together. On this month’s What Holds Us Together podcast, Maine Education Commissioner Pender Makin talks with Steve Bailey, Executive Director of the Maine School Boards Association and Miranda Engstrom, 2023 Hancock County Teacher of the Year and literacy specialist at Lamoine Consolidated School. These champions of education discuss the importance of lifting up the voices of educators and sharing the amazing things happening in schools across Maine through their Maine Loves Public Schools and #LoveMaineSchools campaigns. Listen on Apple or Spotify. | More

Apply Today for the ‘Maine Out-of-School-Time’ Career Exploration Grants

Schools, community-based organizations, and childcare providers can apply for the 2024 Maine Out-of-School Time (MOST) Career Exploration grants through the Maine Department of Education (DOE). These grants support meaningful career exploration opportunities for students in grades 4 – 6 that connect students with Maine businesses and career opportunities, which may include experiential learning trips, guest speakers, job shadows, and more! | More

The Maine DOE Seeking Participants for Title I Committee of Practitioners

Title I of the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) requires each state educational agency that receives Title I funds to create a State Committee of Practitioners (CoP) to advise the State in carrying out its responsibilities under the Title I program. The purpose of this committee is to review any state rules and regulations relating to Title I and provide recommendations concerning processes and procedures related to its implementation. | More

Maine Students Enjoy ‘Take ME to Work Day’ at the State House During School Vacation

State employees, including the Maine Department of Education (DOE), recently participated in the annual Take ME to Work Day by hosting their children and/or children they know for the day at the Maine Capitol Complex and at state-operated locations across Maine. | More

America’s Field Trip Opportunity for Youth through National America 250 Commission

The following student opportunity was shared by the Secretary of State’s Office. It is nearly 250 years since the signing of the Declaration of Independence, and organizations across the country are gearing up to recognize this milestone and the history of our nation. | More

Approval of FY 2024 School Revolving Renovation Fund Applications

The Maine Department of Education (DOE) has awarded $28.6 million in School Revolving Renovation Fund (SRRF) loans to 12 school administrative units. | More

A Reminder to Maine Home Instruction Parents and SAUs Regarding Annual Assessment Requirement

A reminder to those families who have opted for home instruction during the 2024-2025 School Year that, per Title 20-A: 5001-A , an annual assessment of academic progress is required.   | More

Maine Schools Sharing Success Stories

Experiencing the Magic at Maranacook Community Middle School

Walk into any classroom at Maranacook Community Middle School and you’d be hard-pressed to identify a 6th grader from an 8th grader in the class. And that’s part of the magic at Maranacook. Instead of being separated by grade level, students are grouped into multiage teams. | More

Sphero Robots Support Playful Learning in RSU 40

RSU 40 staff are finding ways to use robotic technology, funded by the Maine Department of Education’s (DOE) Maine Teaches CS Initiative, to support interdisciplinary learning across grade levels. The school’s acquisition of Sphero Bolts and Indi cars is making learning experiences playful and engaging for both students and educators. | More

Bangor High School Student Named ‘Educators for a Multilingual Maine’ Student of the Year

Educators for a Multilingual Maine (EMME) has announced that Bangor High School student Amanda Tomlinson will receive the EMME 2024 Student of the Year award. | More

| Submit your Maine School Success Story |

Professional Development, Training, and Events

REMINDER: Register Now for Early Childhood Summer Regional Summit Events With Mini Grant Opportunity

As part of the Preschool Development Renewal Grant (PDG) Maine DOE and Maine DHHS are offering the opportunity for a summer summit series in 2024 and 2025 to support communities in their local system alignment and coordination for early childhood care and education programming from birth through the early elementary years. Teams accepted to participate in the summit will also be awarded $800 mini grants to support their efforts in developing and implementing action plans to address an identified early care and education need in their communities. | More

Inclusive Classroom Book Study for Maine Early Care and Education Professionals (serving Birth-Grade 3)

The Maine Department of Education (DOE) has partnered with Maine Roads to Quality Professional Development Network and the Maine Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) Office of Child and Family Services to offer a no-cost book study for Maine early care and education professionals (serving children birth-Grade 3) interested in creating more inclusive classrooms. | More

| Visit the Professional Development Calendar |

Latest DOE Career/Project Opportunities:

View current Maine Department of Education employment opportunities here

Maine DOE Update – April 12, 2024

From the Maine Department of Education

Reporting Items

Reports Due Soon: April 1 Enrollment & Quarter 3 Reporting

Attendance, Behavior, Bullying, and Truancy reports for Quarter 3 (January, February, and March) as well as any updates to previous quarters and the April 1 Enrollment Report opened on April 1st. These reports are due on Monday, April 15th. | More

| Visit the DC&R Reporting Calendar |

News & Updates

Maine Department of Education Launches Maine’s Whole Student Pandemic Response Page

The Maine Department of Education (DOE) has launched a new webpage to showcase how the Maine DOE used federal emergency relief funding to invest in Maine’s Whole Student Pandemic Response. The effort highlights the initiatives the DOE created with federal funding and the impact on students, educators, schools, and communities. | More

Ninth Annual Maine Farm to School Cook-off Slated for May 7th

This year, one competition will be held at Central Maine Community College on May 7, 2024, from 11 am-2 pm. The competition will be live-streamed for those who would like to watch remotely and support the school teams. | More

Educational Resources for Earth Day Participation

This year, Earth Day recognition falls on the first day back from April vacation. Embrace the energy of the return to school by having students participate in an Earth Day activity in your classroom, school, or community. | More

Resources for Celebrating School Lunch Hero Day on May 3

School Nutrition professionals have a lot on their plate, between preparing delicious food, adhering to strict nutrition standards, navigating student food allergies, and offering service with a smile. We hope schools across Maine will celebrate School Lunch Hero Day on May 3 to celebrate their hard work and commitment. | More

Celebrating Week of the Young Child

We want to thank you for joining us in celebrating the Week of the Young Child! This national event promotes the importance of high-quality early learning, sponsored by the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC). This year the Maine Department of Education and the Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Child and Family Services have teamed up to support early childhood educators across the state. Music Monday | Tasty Tuesday | Work Together Wednesday | Artsy Thursday | Family Friday

Nominations Open for Maine School Nurse of the Year

The Maine Association of School Nurses (MASN) announces a call for nominations for the Maine School Nurse of the Year (SNOY) 2024-25! This award recognizes an outstanding school nurse for his/her contributions to the school and community they serve. The award provides recognition to an individual who demonstrates leadership in 6 areas of practice: care provision, program management, health education, professional development, community involvement, and research. | More

Maine Schools Sharing Success Stories

South Portland Educator Named English to Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) Teacher of the Year

Sheanna Zimmerman of South Portland Schools was awarded the English to Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) Teacher of the Year by the Educators for Multilingual Maine (EMME) on March 8, 2024. | More

Hancock Grammar School Hosts a Literacy Night at Sea

On March 27th, Title 1 staff from Hancock Grammar School (HGS), Renee Clark and Yasmin Beal, hosted an over-the-top (under-the-sea) literacy event that gathered 400 students, family members, and community members. Considering HGS has about 170 students, that is a pretty good haul! | More

| Submit your Maine School Success Story |

Professional Development, Training, and Events

Earn Contact Hours from Internationally Recognized, Innovative Educators

The Maine Department of Education is thrilled to offer a limited-time, self-directed course that includes three keynotes and three workshops from John Spencer, Katie Novak, and Lynn Cuccaro, world-class leaders in innovative education! | More

Webinar: Great Books for Maine Classrooms

Teachers love books and this webinar is designed to highlight books found to have great value in Maine classrooms. Hosted by Maine DOE Maine DOE Humanities Teacher Fellowship Team – James St. Pierre and Dorie Tripp, this webinar will offer book suggestions for a variety of content covering all grade levels. | More

| Visit the Professional Development Calendar |

Latest DOE Career/Project Opportunities:

View current Maine Department of Education employment opportunities here

Maine DOE Update – April 5, 2024

From the Maine Department of Education

Reporting Items

| Visit the DC&R Reporting Calendar |

News & Updates

Teacher Shortage Areas for the 2024-2025 School Year

The U.S. Department of Education annually designates teacher shortage areas for the purposes of deferment of loan repayments or reductions of teaching obligation. The Maine Department of Education (DOE) recently requested input regarding designated teacher shortage areas for federal reporting and would like to thank all those who submitted information during the comment period. The comments related to teacher shortage enabled the Maine DOE to add additional teaching endorsements to the U.S. DOE proposal. | More

Reminder: National History Teacher of the Year Nominations Open Until April 30

Nominate an outstanding teacher in your community for the 2024 National History Teacher of the Year! Each year, Gilder Lehrman recognizes first-rate K-12 teachers who find creative ways to bring history to life in their classrooms. Winners are selected from each state and US territories and become finalists for the national award. State winners will receive $1,000 each. The national winner will receive a $10,000 prize and a ceremony in their honor in New York City. | More

Maine Schools Sharing Success Stories

How Williams Elementary School is Teaching and Preparing Students for the Solar Eclipse

Two weeks before the solar eclipse on April 8th, Williams Elementary School in RSU 18 principal Melanie Smith visited all classrooms to read aloud the book A Few Beautiful Minutes Experiencing a Solar Eclipse, written by Kate Allen Fox. During her visits, Principal Smith also shared a video with students that explained the difference between solar eclipses and lunar eclipses. | More

Aroostook County Early College Summit Brings Together High Schools Across Northern Maine

On Tuesday, March 5th, Early College leaders Margaret Guimond from the University of Maine at Fort Kent (UMFK) and Teri St. Pierre from the University of Maine at Presque Isle (UMPI) hosted the first Aroostook County Early College Summit. | More

| Submit your Maine School Success Story |

Professional Development, Training, and Events

Register Now for Maine DOE School Safety Specialist Program

The Maine Department of Education (DOE) Maine School Safety Center (MSSC) offers training in several service areas, all at NO COST to schools and school administrative units (SAUs). MSSC’s flagship training opportunity is the School Safety Specialist (SSS) program, provided through Eastern Maine Community College (EMMC), which helps fulfill the statute Sec. 1. 20-A MRSA §1001, sub-§16 (LD892), which states you must have a “designated employee having oversight regarding school safety.”The Math4ME Project is accepting applications for the newest cohort of schools. Math4ME is a free, three-year project that supports and lifts mathematics education for all students and focuses on grades PK-8. | More

Math4ME Project Accepting Applications – Deadline Extended

The Math4ME Project is accepting applications for the newest cohort of schools. Math4ME is a free, three-year project that supports and lifts mathematics education for all students and focuses on grades PK-8. | More

| Visit the Professional Development Calendar |

Latest DOE Career/Project Opportunities:

View current Maine Department of Education employment opportunities here

Maine DOE Update – March 29, 2024

From the Maine Department of Education

Reporting Items

| Visit the DC&R Reporting Calendar |

News & Updates

Maine DOE Seeks Public Comment for a Tydings Amendment Waiver of FY23 ESEA funds and FY24 Carryover of Excess Title I, Part A Funds

Pursuant to the authority granted under section 8401(b) of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESEA), the Maine Department of Education (DOE) intends to apply for a Tydings Amendment waiver and a Title I Carryover of Excess waiver from the U.S. Department of Education (USDOE). As required, the Maine DOE is seeking 15 days of public comment from March 22, 2024 – April 6, 2024, on the request to waive the period of availability for Elementary & Secondary Education Act funds. and Title I, Part A carryover limitations. | More

Celebrating Early Childhood Education Day at the State House

Staff from Maine’s Department of Education’s (DOE) Early Learning Team and Child Development Services gathered with several other Early Childhood agencies, organizations, and programs in the Hall of Flags at the Maine State House in Augusta on Thursday, March 21st for the annual Early Childhood Day at the Hall of Flags. | More

Maine DOE Seeks Public Comment for Current Social Studies Standards

As part of the scheduled periodic review of the Maine Learning Results, the Maine Department of Education (DOE) is seeking public comments regarding the current social studies standards. These comments will inform the work of the standards revision teams. | More

Public Pre-K Partnership Pilot Grant Request for Applications (RFA)

Maine’s Preschool Development Renewal Grant is supporting the Maine Department of Education in offering grant funding to school administrative units (SAUs) to increase the number of eligible 4-year-olds attending high-quality public Pre-Kindergarten (Pre-K) programming through partnerships with licensed community providers (center-based and family child care) during the 24-25 school year. | More

Information for Celebrating The Week of the Young Child April 6th – 12th

We hope that you will join us in celebrating the Week of the Young Child! To help elevate the importance of high-quality early learning and care for the great community, please share photos through this form to show how your early learning program/classroom celebrates the Week of the Young Child by utilizing high-quality practices and strategies to build positive relationships and a sense of community in your early care and education setting. | More

Maine Schools Sharing Success Stories

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Professional Development, Training, and Events

21st Annual MLTI Student Conference Registration Closes Soon; Calling for Session Proposals

There’s still time to register to attend the Maine Department of Education (DOE) Maine Learning Technology Initiative (MLTI) Student Conference! Join us for a fun-filled day of technology learning with #CampMLTI, the in-person student conference. Registration to attend the in-person MLTI student conference on May 23rd at the University of Maine in Orono is open until April 5th. | More

| Visit the Professional Development Calendar |

Latest DOE Career/Project Opportunities:

View current Maine Department of Education employment opportunities here

Maine DOE Update – March 22, 2024

From the Maine Department of Education

Reporting Items

| Visit the DC&R Reporting Calendar |

News & Updates

Maine DOE Seeks Participants for Climate Education Action Plan Task Force

The Maine Department of Education (DOE) wants your help designing the future of climate education in Maine. If you are a teacher, student or young adult (under 30), school administrator, or education partner, consider filling out the interest form below to be a part of the Maine DOE Climate Education Action Plan Task Force. | More

Integrated, Consolidated 9-16 Educational Facilities Program Funding Opportunity

Maine school administrative units (SAUs) may apply for the Integrated, Consolidated 9-16 Educational Facilities Program through the application posted on the Maine Department of Education (DOE) Office of School Facilities website. The application deadline is June 30, 2025. | More

Maine DOE Seeks Comments on Maine’s IDEA Part C Application

The Maine Department of Education (DOE), Child Development Services – Early Intervention for ME is seeking comments from the public on its annual application for federal funds under Part C of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), which covers early intervention services for infants and toddlers with developmental delays and/or suspected disabilities from birth to their third birthday. | More

Maine DOE Seeks Comments on Maine’s IDEA Part B Application

The Maine Department of Education (DOE) is seeking comments from the public on its annual application for federal funds under Part B of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), which covers services to children with disabilities, ages 3-22. | More

Maine DOE Seeks Public Comment: Performance Levels for Career and Technical Education Perkins State Plan Revision (2024)

As required under the Strengthening Career and Technical Education for the 21st Century Act (“Perkins V”), the Maine DOE is completing a non-substantive revision of our four-year Perkins state plan. Among minor updates, this revision to the state plan will also include adjusted values of Maine’s state-determined performance levels (“SDPLs” or “performance levels”) for the 2024-2025 school year through the 2027-2028 school year. | More

Maine Department of Education Ramping Up for Kindergarten Entry Inventory Project

Calling all Maine kindergarten teachers, administrators, and curriculum directors! Are you interested in exploring strategies to help support transitions from early childhood settings into a Kindergarten setting? If so, you may be interested in engaging in an upcoming project the Maine Department of Education (DOE) is launching related to the design of a Kindergarten Entry Inventory (KEI). | More

Public Pre-K Partnership Pilot Grant Request for Applications (RFA)

No Cost ‘Envirothon KickStarter Kits’ Available to Maine Educators/Schools

Do you want to engage students in learning about Maine’s Natural Resources? Do you want to promote outdoor education? Do you want access to environmental science equipment? Do you want to provide students with more opportunities to master the Maine Science and Technology Learning Results Standards? The Envirothon KickStarter Program may be for you. | More

Maine Schools Sharing Success Stories

Maine Students Showcase Career & Technical Talents at Annual SkillsUSA Competition in Bangor

The hallways of United Technologies Center (UTC) were packed with students dressed in different uniforms adorned with the SkillsUSA emblem on March 15 as they came together from across Maine to test their talents at Maine’s annual SkillsUSA event. | More

Noble Middle School Builds Stronger Relationships Through BARR

Noble Middle School has created a community of students who genuinely respect and trust their teachers and each other through the Building Assets Reducing Risks (BARR) model. “The teachers, the students, and everyone just support you. There’s really no negativity,” Chase, a Noble seventh grader, says of his school. | More

How Saco Middle School is Integrating Technology into Student-Driven Curriculum

This year, Saco Middle School (SMS) has three exciting student technology projects that highlight highly engaging, student-driven learning. These projects are a combination of projects funded through the Maine Department of Education (DOE) Maine Learning through Technology Initiative (MLTI) as well as a student project submission to the Samsung Solve for Tomorrow STEM competition. | More

Windham High School Students Welcome Peers from Poland Regional High to Practice Civil Discourse

For the second consecutive year, a student group from Windham High School (WHS) volunteered to participate in the Can We? Project and hosted their peers from Poland Regional High School (PRHS) in mid-February to practice skills needed for civilized conversations. | More

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Professional Development, Training, and Events

Maine DOE and DHHS to Offer Early Childhood Summer Regional Summit Events With Mini Grant Opportunity

Through the Preschool Development Renewal Grant (PDG), the Maine Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS), in partnership with the Maine Department of Education (DOE) are offering the opportunity for a summer summit series in 2024 and 2025 to support communities in their local system alignment and coordination for early childhood care and education programming from birth through the early elementary years. Teams accepted to participate in the summit will also be awarded $800 mini grants to support their efforts in developing and implementing action plans to address an identified early care and education need in their communities. | More

| Visit the Professional Development Calendar |

Latest DOE Career/Project Opportunities:

View current Maine Department of Education employment opportunities here

Maine DOE Update – March 15, 2024

From the Maine Department of Education

Reporting Items

Reports Open Soon: April 1 Enrollment & Quarter 3 Reporting

Attendance, Behavior, Bullying, and Truancy reports for Quarter 3 (January, February, and March) and the April 1 Enrollment Report open on April 1st. | More

| Visit the DC&R Reporting Calendar |

News & Updates

Maine DOE Podcast Highlights Calais Schools Implementing BARR to Strengthen Relationships and Student Engagement

On the latest episode of the Maine Department of Education’s (DOE) “What Holds Us Together” podcast, Education Commissioner Pender Makin talked with Calais Elementary School Principal Sue Carter and Calais Superintendent Mary Anne Spearin about their experiences implementing the Building Assets Reducing Risks (BARR) model in their district. BARR combines relationship-building and the use of real-time data to strengthen student engagement, wellbeing, achievement, educator wellbeing, and connections across the school community. | More

Extended Deadline: Paid Professional Learning Opportunity Provided by Maine DOE – Applications Close March 21, 2024

The Maine Department of Education is accepting applications from individuals interested in learning more about the competitive grant process. Selected applicants will be trained to serve as peer reviewers who assist the Department in reviewing, assessing, and scoring competitive grant proposals for the 21st Century Community Learning Centers (21st CCLC) Program. The 21st CCLC program is a federally funded education program that helps schools and communities develop before-school, after-school, and summer educational programs that support students and their families. | More

Maine DOE Seeking Public Comment on Two Transportation Rules

The Maine Department of Education (DOE) is seeking public comment on the following two transportation rules Targeted Revisions to Rule Chapter 83: School Transportation Operations Program and Full Repeal of Chapter 84: School bus Refurbishment Program. | More

Maine DOE Releases Professional Development Grant for 2024/2025 School Year to Promote Climate Education in Maine Schools

The Maine Department of Education (DOE) is excited to launch Phase 2 of the climate education professional development grant pilot program. The grant application is due on May 3rd, 2024. The program window runs from July 1st, 2024 until June 30th, 2025. There is $750,000.00 in funding available for local education providers to apply to partner with a community-based organization for climate-related, interdisciplinary professional development. This grant program was designed out of LD 1902 which passed in the spring of 2022. | More

Information for Celebrating The Week of the Young Child April 6th – 12th

The Week of the Young Child is a national event promoting the importance of high-quality early learning sponsored by the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC). This year the Maine Department of Education and the Office of Child and Family Services are teaming up to support early childhood educators across the state to join the celebration and promote the vital work they do every day in their child care programs and Pre-K through 3rd grade elementary school classrooms. | More

Celebrating National Preschool Teacher Appreciation Day on March 15, 2024

Preschool education is the essential foundation in a child’s developmental and educational journey. Neuroscience has demonstrated that the greatest period of brain development occurs in the preschool years, making high-quality experiences during this time pivotal for supporting life-long learning. The Maine Department of Education (DOE) is proud to celebrate National Preschool Teacher Appreciation Day on March 15, 2024, honoring Maine’s amazing public preschool programs and especially the backbone of these high-quality programs which are teachers themselves.| More

Maine Schools Sharing Success Stories

Mt. Blue High School Eases the Ninth Grade Transition with BARR

For five years, Mt. Blue High School in Farmington has used the BARR (Building Assets Reducing Risks) model to ease ninth graders into high school. As a result, they have seen increased attendance, lower failure rates, and stronger bonds between educators and students and among educators. | More

A Day on Fahi Pond Ice Fishing with Upper Kennebec Valley High School’s Wildlife Studies and Maine Woodsmen Classes

On February 9th, 2024 Mr. Atwood’s Wildlife Studies class and Mr. Davis’s Maine Woodsmen class ventured out to Fahi Pond in Embden, Maine for a day of ice fishing and outdoor skills practice. | More

Katahdin Schools’ Nutrition Team Receives National Award for Innovation

Four school districts in Alaska, Iowa, Maine, and Ohio received awards for their trailblazing and innovative efforts to improve the nutritional quality of meals for their students. This announcement was made in front of nearly 850 school nutrition professionals at the School Nutrition Association Legislative Action Conference during National School Breakfast Week recently. | More

Calais Elementary School Strengthens Relationships Through BARR

Nestled in the tight-knit community of Calais, Maine, is Calais Elementary, a pre-k through sixth-grade school full of enthusiastic students and dedicated teachers. Calais Elementary is one of more than 70 Maine schools using the Building Assets Reducing Risks (BARR) education model, and this week, Maine Education Commissioner Pender Makin visited to experience BARR in action. | More

Belfast Alternative Ed Program Partners with Local Paper for Student Mentorship Experience

Belfast Community Outreach Program in Education is RSU 71’s alternative high school program, which was funded by a grant from the Office of Substance in 1990. | More

| Submit your Maine School Success Story |

Professional Development, Training, and Events

| Visit the Professional Development Calendar |

Latest DOE Career/Project Opportunities:

View current Maine Department of Education employment opportunities here

Maine DOE Update – March 1, 2024

From the Maine Department of Education

Reporting Items

| Visit the DC&R Reporting Calendar |

News & Updates

Maine DOE Podcast Highlights Hands-On Career and Technical Education Experiences

Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs provide Maine students with hands-on experiences in programs like culinary arts, welding, auto, law enforcement, early childhood education, and so much more. On this month’s What Holds Us Together podcast, Maine Education Commissioner Pender Makin talks with three CTE leaders about this engaging learning pathway, Randy Crockett from Oxford Hills Technical School, Bobby Deetjen from Mid-Coast School of Technology, and Bill Tracy from Hancock County Technical Center. They share how CTEs help students build the skills, knowledge, and real-world experiences they need to thrive. | More

Celebrate #SELday 2024 by Sharing Your School Highlights!

We know that Maine schools are doing amazing things to cultivate the social and emotional learning of all of their students and we want to share that collective success with the nation. With that in mind, this year we are asking you to participate in this national effort by sharing your SEL highlights during the school year and beyond and/or share your school’s 2024 SEL Day activities and initiatives by filling out this form. | More

Solar Eclipse Resources for Educators

On April 8th, a scientific phenomenon that hasn’t occurred since 1963 will darken the skies. A total solar eclipse will pass over central and northern Maine! To support educators across the state, the Maine Department of Education (DOE) has created a website with solar eclipse resources for the classroom. Don’t be left in the dark; check out these engaging Maine DOE resources for this exciting celestial event. | More

A Celebration of Outdoor Learning

The Maine Department of Education (DOE) joined Maine environmental education organizations at the State House’s Hall of Flags in celebration of outdoor learning and the release of the 2022 Census of Community-Based Outdoor and Environmental Learning. | More

Register Now for Alternative Education Association of Maine Spring Conference

Information about the Alternative Education Association of Maine’s Spring Conference is now available. The theme of this year’s conference is Better Understanding the Alternative Education Learner. | More

Maine Schools Sharing Success Stories

Celebrating Women in CTE: Meet Welding Student Emma Koch from Rumford

Emma Koch is currently in her senior year at Mountain Valley High School in Rumford, Maine, and in her second year at Region 9 School of Applied Technology where she participates in the metal trades program. The two-year program combines the hands-on use of machine tools and equipment with different types of welding and fabrication of metals through lab exercises and a variety of projects. | More

Step Inside Hancock County Technical Center

Hancock County Technical Center (HCTC) opened its doors to the Maine Department of Education (DOE) on Valentine’s Day to provide a glimpse of what a day looks like within its walls. Upon arrival, the smell of baked scallops drifted down the hallway from the culinary program at work preparing a special meal for staff. The office was buzzing with the anticipation of another day of learning, with students and staff discussing college plans, transportation routes, and what they are looking forward to as the season changes. | More

Extended-Day Enrichment Program Boosts Math Skills and Attendance in Dexter, Maine

When Ridge View Community School (RVCS) in Dexter, Maine, utilized Emergency Relief Funds to establish an extended-day enrichment program for students in grades 3-8, they couldn’t anticipate the immediate positive impact it would bring. | More

Celebrating Women in CTE: Meet Auto Collision Instructor Danica Wooster

Danica Wooster has taught the Auto Collision program at the Mid-Coast School of Technology (MCST) for the last 13 years. The program offers a diverse look into the automotive collision industry, including working with the most up-to-date tools and equipment and learning skills in welding, paint preparation, dent repair, and detailing. | More

| Submit your Maine School Success Story |

Professional Development, Training, and Events

Paid Professional Learning Opportunity Provided by Maine DOE

The Maine Department of Education (DOE) is accepting applications from individuals interested in learning more about the competitive grant process. Selected applicants will be trained to serve as peer reviewers who assist the Maine DOE in reviewing, assessing, and scoring competitive grant proposals for the 21st Century Community Learning Centers (21st CCLC) Program. | More

Pre-K for ME, K for ME, and 1st Grade for ME Program Overviews and Summer Training Opportunities

Since 2018, the Maine Department of Education (DOE) has adapted and piloted open-source instructional programs for early elementary grades based on the Boston Public School’s evidence-based Focus Curricula. Pre-K for ME was launched in 2019, K for ME was launched in 2021, and 1st Grade for ME was launched in 2023. 2nd Grade for ME is being piloted in Maine classrooms next year and will be made available for the 2025-2026 school year. | More

Learning Series for Supporting Children, Families, and Communities to Thrive: Promoting Positive Childhood Experiences and Resilience

The Maine Department of Education’s (DOE) Early Learning Team and Maine Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) Office of Child and Family Services, in partnership with The Maine Resilience Building Network, are excited to announce a professional learning opportunity for childcare and public-school educators working with children from birth to 8 years old. | More

Register for InnovatED: Igniting Innovation in Education

The Maine Department of Education DOE’s MOOSE and Interdisciplinary Instruction teams are hosting a FREE virtual workshop day with John Spencer, Katie Novak, and Lynn Cuccaro on March 28th. This day-long workshop features morning keynotes from all three speakers and your choice of a two-hour afternoon breakout session with either John, Katie, or Lynn. | More

Inclusive Education Webinar Series: Dispelling Myths about Assistive Technology (AT) Devices and Services

Want to learn more about assistive technology use in the classroom to benefit all learners? Recent guidance on the myths and facts surrounding assistive technology was released from the federal government which supports reducing barriers that often lead to a lack of utilization of AT. This webinar, hosted by Maine CITE and the Maine Department of Education’s Office of Special Services & Inclusive Education, will guide educators, administrators, and ed techs through the latest AT information and provide insights on moving toward a more inclusive education environment. | More

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