The following information is intended to support school administrative units (SAUs) in preparing for the implementation of a new law requiring that school boards adopt and implement a policy “prohibiting student use of personal electronic devices for the duration of the school day, from starting bell to dismissal bell” by August 1, 2026. | More
As schools across Maine continue to welcome and support new educators, the Rural THRIVE Foundations program is helping early-career teachers to build confidence, strengthen instructional practice, and establish meaningful professional connections during their first years in the classroom. | More
The Boston Globe is encouraging high school students across New England to showcase their storytelling and journalism skills through the 22nd Annual Will McDonough Sports Writing Contest. | More
The Maine Department of Education (DOE) would like to join the Maine Administrators of Services for Children with Disabilities (MADSEC) in congratulating Kimm Kenniston, Director of Special Education for RSU 34, for being named the 2025-2026 MADSEC Special Education Administrator of the Year. | More
During an annual awards banquet, Maine Education Association (MEA) leaders presented MEA’s Annual Awards, recognizing MEA members and community members who have been exemplary in MEA’s advocacy for Maine students, educators, and public education. | More
At Day Mountain Regional Middle School (DMRMS) in MSAD 58, learning often reaches far beyond the classroom walls. The latest example comes from the DMRMS Environmentalist Club, where students have launched the first episodes of their new “Wild and Wonderful Podcast.” | More
On August 12, 2026, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., the Maine Department of Education (DOE) Coordinated School Health Team will host its annual New School Nurse Orientation in Augusta. | More
The Maine Department of Education (DOE) Educator Excellence Team is excited to be hosting its Annual Mentor Trainings in locations across Maine this August and September. | More
The Maine Department of Education (DOE), in partnership with the Maine Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) Office of Child and Family Services, is continuing a monthly Early Learning Solutions Lab Community of Practice (CoP) as part of an ongoing effort to strengthen Maine’s mixed delivery system for early childhood education. | More
The Maine Department of Education (DOE) would like to join the Maine Administrators of Services for Children with Disabilities (MADSEC) in congratulating Kimm Kenniston, Director of Special Education for RSU 34, for being named the 2025-2026 MADSEC Special Education Administrator of the Year.
Kenniston is widely recognized as an exceptional leader in special education. Her compassion, expertise, and unwavering commitment to students have made a lasting impact across her district, region, and the state of Maine. Colleagues describe Kenniston as a visionary, student-centered administrator who consistently leads with integrity, professionalism, and heart.
With more than 30 years in the field of special education, Kenniston has become a trusted mentor, advisor, and collaborator, generously sharing her extensive knowledge of special education law, best practices, and student programming with colleagues at all levels of experience.
Throughout her career, Kenniston has built strong relationships grounded in trust, respect, and advocacy for students and families. She is known for creating safe, collaborative environments where families feel heard, staff feel supported, and students’ individual needs remain at the center of every decision. Her thoughtful leadership, approachable nature, and commitment to continuous learning have strengthened not only her own district but also the broader special education community through her leadership roles within regional organizations and MADSEC.
Those who have worked alongside Kenniston consistently describe her as the person others turn to for guidance, reassurance, and practical solutions. Her mentorship has helped shape and inspire countless administrators, while her dedication to collaboration and professional growth has fostered a strong network of support among special education leaders.
Above all, Kenniston’s work reflects a profound belief in doing what is right for children, making her deeply deserving of recognition as the 2025-2026 MADSEC Special Education Administrator of the Year.
MADSEC is proud to honor Kenniston for her unwavering service to the field of special education and her longstanding support and dedication to the organization. A member of MADSEC since 1997, Kenniston served on the MADSEC board for 18 years, held office from 2016-2020, and served as MADSEC President during the 2018-2019 term.
Congratulations to Kimm Kenniston on this well-deserved honor! Please join us in celebrating her outstanding contributions to students, families, educators, and the field of special education in Maine.
During an annual awards banquet, Maine Education Association (MEA) leaders presented MEA’s Annual Awards, recognizing MEA members and community members who have been exemplary in MEA’s advocacy for Maine students, educators, and public education.
MEA Vice President Beth French and Mike Langley of Merrymeeting EA, a custodian at Woodside Elementary School in Topsham and the Joan McGovern Education Support Professional of the Year
Custodian Named 2026 Joan McGovern Education Support Professional of the Year
MEA named Mike Langley of Merrymeeting EA, a custodian at Woodside Elementary School in Topsham, as the Joan McGovern Education Support Professional of the Year.
As the daytime custodian, Langley keeps the building running by cleaning, fixing, restocking, and supporting the busy school day. For many students, he is far more than the person who cares for the building. In his nomination, colleagues described Langley as a mentor, a valued colleague, and a trusted presence known as “Mr. Mike.”
What truly sets Langley apart is his commitment to providing students with authentic learning experiences beyond the classroom walls. Over the years, he has built outdoor learning spaces, cleared the “Langley Loop” walking trail, and helped transform Woodside’s grounds into places where science, reading, art, and exploration come alive.
Often on his own time after school or on weekends, Langley leads hands-on experiences because he believes students deserve these opportunities. From apple cider pressing and ice-fishing days to the Woodside Maple Syrup Project, he connects students to Maine’s agricultural and outdoor heritage in ways that have become lasting memories for families throughout the community.
His dedication to students and the community extend far beyond the school day. Langley coaches sports teams, teaches students to ride unicycles with the Woodside One Wheelers, and works closely with teachers and the PTO to turn ideas into meaningful opportunities for students.
Through his dedication and generosity, Langley has made a lasting impact on students, colleagues, families, and the entire Woodside community. His work reflects MEA’s commitment to supporting students and strengthening public education.
As the 2026 Joan McGovern Education Support Professional of the Year, Langley will represent Maine for the National Education Association (NEA) Education Support Professional of the Year honor, presented at the NEA Annual Education Support Professional Conference next spring.
MEA also presented the following annual awards to MEA members and community allies:
Kelsey Boucher (Lewiston EA), K-6 art teacher at Robert V. Connors Elementary School in Lewiston
Ashley Bryan Award: Kelsey Boucher
A proud Lewiston native, Kelsey Boucher (Lewiston EA) is a dedicated educator whose commitment to her community has come full circle. A graduate of Lewiston Public Schools, she returned home to serve the same district that shaped her, bringing creativity, leadership, and a strong commitment to equity to her work.
After discovering her passion for art education at the University of Southern Maine, Boucher began teaching elementary visual arts in Lewiston. She currently teaches art to K-6 students at Robert V. Connors Elementary School, where she encourages creativity and student voice every day.
Boucher’s impact extends well beyond the art room. She serves as co‑advisor to the Civil Rights Team, K-6 Art Cohort Leader, and Connors Unified Art Lead, and she has facilitated the Building Anti‑Racist White Educators affinity group.
Ashby Bartke (St. George EA), middle school math teacher at St. George Municipal School Unit
Honor Medal Award: Ashby Bartke
A dedicated middle school math teacher at St. George Municipal School Unit, Ashby Bartke (St. George EA) is known for leading with integrity, courage, and a strong commitment to her students and colleagues. Each day, she brings care and professionalism to her classroom while serving as a trusted advocate within her school community.
As advisor to the Civil Rights Team, Bartke manages the Civil Rights Lending Library, which provides the school community with inclusive texts that support thoughtful conversations about race, religion, identity, and belonging.
Through this work, she has created opportunities for students to engage with inclusive learning materials in a supportive environment. When concerns were raised by parents and administrators this year, Bartke defended students’ rights to access these resources and emphasized their role in building understanding and supporting a safe school environment.
Bartke’s leadership extends beyond her work with students. A respected and active member of her local union, she is often the colleague others turn to for guidance and support. Calm and steady in challenging moments, she stands up for educators’ professional rights while keeping students at the center of her advocacy.
MEA Vice President Beth French and Brittney Drew (Calais EA), 7th- and 8th-grade science teacher
Golden Apple: Brittney Drew
Throughout her time in the Calais School Department, Brittney Drew (Calais EA) has shown a strong commitment to the students, families, and community she serves. She has supported students across grade levels and taken on a variety of roles inside and outside the classroom.
From serving as an Educational Technician and pre‑K lead teacher to her current role as a 7th- and 8th-grade science teacher, Drew has consistently stepped in where she is needed. This range of experience reflects her dedication to supporting students at every stage of their education.
Drew’s impact extends beyond the classroom. She brings care and purpose to her work, supports diverse learners, and gives her time to extracurricular programs and community efforts to help ensure all students have access to opportunities.
Jennifer Marshall (South Portland Service Association) and MEA President Jesse Hargrove
Human and Civil Rights: Jennifer Marshall
When U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) increased operations in Maine this winter, Jennifer Marshall (South Portland Service Association) stepped up to support colleagues and students in South Portland. She worked to ensure they could travel to and from school and work safely and without fear.
To help reduce stress and prevent unnecessary fear among students, Marshall created a radio code system for drivers so that ICE activity could be communicated without alarming students. This approach helped limit exposure to fear and trauma while keeping staff informed.
Marshall’s commitment extends beyond the workplace. She supports families through the South Portland community garden and the mobile food pantry and has helped coordinate food deliveries for immigrant families who were afraid to leave their homes. As a union leader, she also advocates for fairness in the workplace, including helping secure a new position for a member who could no longer perform their job due to an ADA-related issue.
Julia Gay (MEA Student Observer), MEA Vice President Beth French, Pink Feather founder Jen Kyllonen, Jeni Jordan (Oxford Hills EA President), Pink Feather founder Joni Gordon, and Stephanie Michaud (MEA Board Member)
Corporate Award: Pink Feather Foundation
Founded in 2011, the Pink Feather Foundation was created to address a critical need for students by providing access to clean, well-fitting clothing so they can feel comfortable and ready to learn. In 2018, the foundation launched its Teacher Program, recognizing the important role educators play in supporting students’ well-being.
As the program has grown, so has its impact. What began as a small effort has expanded with strong community support, allowing the foundation to operate a large warehouse and work toward establishing a permanent home. This growth has been made possible through donations and a shared commitment to supporting students.
Through the Teacher Program, educators can discreetly order clothing, shoes, and accessories for students in kindergarten through grade 12 at no cost. Teachers work directly with students when possible to help preserve dignity and build trust. All orders remain confidential and are prepared and delivered quickly, often within a few days.
Pam Albert, Chair of the Auburn School Committee
Friend of Education: Pamela Albert
As chair of the Auburn School Committee, Pam Albert has been a steady and thoughtful presence for Auburn’s schools. She has shown a strong commitment to students, educators, and the broader school community through her leadership and advocacy.
Albert’s commitment to the Auburn School Department began well before she joined the School Committee as an at-large member in 2022. She served on the Edward Little High School Building Committee and brought her professional expertise as an epidemiologist to the COVID Health and Safety Committee, where she helped support informed decision making during a critical time.
That commitment continues through her ongoing service in the district. Albert serves on advisory committees focused on long-term planning, advocates for staff training and student safety, and recognizes the work of educators and staff during school committee meetings. She also supports students and families beyond the classroom by helping organize efforts such as Project Grad Night and a community food drive during a lapse in SNAP benefits.
The Maine Department of Education (DOE) Educator Excellence Team is excited to be hosting its Annual Mentor Trainings in locations across Maine this August and September.
This no-cost professional learning opportunity is intended for teachers interested in mentoring new educators or educators who are new to their school administrative unit (SAU). It is designed to support and strengthen educator mentorship statewide by providing attendees with the tools, knowledge, and community needed to make a meaningful impact.
Registration is open now through July 20, 2026.
What’s New
The Annual Mentor Training builds upon prior collaborative work with teacher leaders, administrators, and higher education and technical assistance center partners. It has recently been updated with the latest research and best practices in mentoring and inclusive education. Designed with direct input from educators, the training follows a scaffolded approach to provide a more personalized, just-in-time learning experience.
The training format is as follows:
A one-day, in-person session from 8:30 a.m.-3 p.m.
One virtual follow-up session (two hours, mid-year)
Contact hours awarded for all training components
Training offered at no cost
The one-day, in-person sessions are scheduled in multiple locations across the state. Participants should select the date/location that is most convenient for them:
Friday, September 18, 2026 – A session will also be held in Aroostook County in collaboration with CACE (Central Aroostook Council on Education). Registration information will be sent directly from CACE to SAUs in Aroostook County.
Additional Benefits for Participants
Access to a mentor forum through EnGiNE, the Maine DOE’s learning management system, for ongoing support, networking, and resource sharing with mentors throughout the state
Community of practice meetings offered virtually in the fall and spring
Updated materials and resources available for SAUs to use locally with new mentors
Office hour sign-up available during the school year for ongoing support
Testimonials
Participants from the 2024-2025 training session shared:
“This will help me to start a mentorship off on the right foot. Thank you!”
“It is never too late to invest in the success of future teachers! Be proactive and engage others before they leave the system.”
“Like our students, we all learn in different ways, and we need to find a way that will help the mentee the best.”
“I realize the important role I could have in a new teacher’s life.”
Participants said as a result of the training, they better understand:
Different ways to support new educators and to help them feel confident and successful.
How to ask questions to guide rather than just tell educators what to do.
Building relationships with mentees is crucial to mentoring.
Mentoring is a process of continued partnership, feedback, and constructive conversations.
Be the mentor who makes a difference! Sign up today for the free regional training that best fits your schedule. (Registration links for each location are hyperlinked above.) Pre-work and specific location instructions will be emailed three weeks prior to each session.
Please note that registration will close on July 20, 2026, and a maximum of 50 participants is allowed per location. A minimum of 12 participants is required in order to run a session.
With questions about this year’s Annual Mentor Trainings, please contact Maine DOE Educator Excellence Coordinator Christina O’Neal, PhD, at christina.l.oneal@maine.gov.
The Boston Globe is encouraging high school students across New England to showcase their storytelling and journalism skills through the 22nd Annual Will McDonough Sports Writing Contest.
The free contest is open to students in grades 9-12 residing in any New England state, including Maine. It offers students an opportunity to develop and share their nonfiction writing centered on sports. Educators, school staff, journalism advisers, English teachers, coaches, and families are encouraged to share this opportunity with students who may be interested in sports writing, journalism, storytelling, or communications.
Students may submit one original nonfiction entry of up to 700 words. Entries may be written in either first person or third person and must have sports as a central element. Submissions can be newly written or previously published works created after August 15, 2025.
Contest organizers note that all work must be wholly created by the student and will be evaluated based on the strength of the writing, reporting, use of journalism practices, and the ability to engage readers.
The contest honors Will McDonough, a legendary sportswriter best known for his decades spent covering professional sports in New England. McDonough was widely respected for his reporting, storytelling, and commitment to journalistic excellence.
Contest Guidelines
To participate, students must:
Be enrolled in grades 9-12 as of May 1, 2026
Reside in Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, or Vermont
Submit one nonfiction sports-related essay
Keep submissions to 700 words or fewer
Submit their entry by May 27, 2026
How to Enter
Students must complete two steps before the May 27, 2026, deadline:
Have an adult (18+) complete the entry form, which can be found here.
For official contest rules and additional information, please click here. Judging will conclude on June 8, 2026, and winners will be announced on June 9, 2026.
At Day Mountain Regional Middle School (DMRMS) in MSAD 58, learning often reaches far beyond the classroom walls. The latest example comes from the DMRMS Environmentalist Club, where students have launched the first episodes of their new “Wild and Wonderful Podcast.”
What began as a small club project has quickly grown into something more—a platform for curiosity, community storytelling, and a deep appreciation for Maine’s natural world.
Under the thoughtful guidance of advisor Jami Badershall, sixth graders Lila Campbell and Chloe Ames stepped behind the microphone for Episode 1, sitting down with Roger Lambert, a Master Maine Guide and lifelong storyteller. Their conversation explored how climate change is affecting local animal populations and traced Lambert’s decades-long navigation of Maine’s woods and waters. Badershall intentionally chose Lambert as the club’s first guest; as a seasoned guide and natural storyteller, he could carry the conversation, if needed, and help build the students’ confidence. Badershall also wanted someone who has witnessed long-term changes in Maine’s wilderness—climate-related and otherwise—and could reflect thoughtfully on those shifts. The result was a rich, engaging discussion that showcased both Lambert’s experience and the students’ thoughtful preparation.
In Episode 2, the students welcomed Liz Latti, Director of Fisheries and Hatcheries at the Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife. Campbell and Ames asked about Latti’s career path, her leadership role, and the challenges that Maine’s fisheries are currently facing—particularly the impact of recent droughts on fish populations. The conversation highlighted not only wildlife stewardship but also the growing interest among our students in science, conservation, and public service.
The podcast was originally intended to be just one small piece of the Environmentalist Club. After the first interview, however, the students were hooked. They wanted to do more, and they have since done a fabulous job. Their interview subjects consistently leave impressed by their preparation, poise, and curiosity.
Badershall’s background in journalism has been an asset. She helps students craft thoughtful, open-ended questions, while encouraging them to listen closely and adapt in the moment. Although the students prepare a list of questions before each episode, it has been exciting for Badershall to watch them adjust naturally as conversations unfold. Perhaps most impressive is their confidence; they are not intimidated by the accomplished adults sitting across from them.
For Ames, the experience has been transformative.
“It has given me a lot to think about for careers that involve the outdoors,” she shared. “There are so many options and different fields you can go into. We also talk a lot about the changes they have seen in our wildlife and the environment around them. I used to want to be a game warden, but now I want to be an environmental journalist and educate other people about climate change and how it affects us.”
Ames also reflected on her personal growth.
“I’ve gotten better at asking questions, and it has helped me build my confidence. I used to not like to speak up like that, but now it’s fun.”
The “Wild and Wonderful Podcast” is a powerful reminder of what happens when students are given a platform to explore their interests, connect with community experts, and ask meaningful questions about the world around them. DMRMS students are proving that learning can indeed be wild and wonderful—and their voices are well worth listening to.
This story was submitted by MSAD 58. To submit a good news story to the Maine DOE, please fill out the good news submission form.
On August 12, 2026, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., the Maine Department of Education (DOE) Coordinated School Health Team will host its annual New School Nurse Orientation in Augusta.
If you have hired or plan to hire a new nurse for your school over the summer, please be sure to include the New School Nurse Orientation in their new hire work plan. This daylong event is a specialized program designed to help nurses transition into the unique specialty of school nursing.
The New School Nurse Orientation will be followed up with continued learning opportunities, connections, and support facilitated by the Maine DOE Coordinated School Health Team, which includes school nurse regional liaisons.
When: August 12, 2026, from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Where: Rooms A&B at the Maine Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) building, 109 Capitol Street, Augusta, ME 04333 Cost: $25 Registration: For more information, and to see the agenda and register, please visit theevent website. Attendees must register in advance.
The Coordinated School Health Team is part of the Maine DOE Office of School and Student Supports. For further information or with questions, please contact DOESchoolandStudentSupports@Maine.gov.
As schools across Maine continue to welcome and support new educators, the Rural THRIVE Foundations program is helping early-career teachers to build confidence, strengthen instructional practice, and establish meaningful professional connections during their first years in the classroom.
Rural Thrive is a project of the University of Maine College of Education and Human Development. It is funded with $3.3 million in Congressionally Directed Spending awarded to the University of Maine System to provide ongoing professional development, mentorship and other evidence-based support, with the goal of leading to better resilience and retention among rural educators and school leaders, as well as improving PK-12 student outcomes.
This year, nearly 30 early-career educators from across the state participated in Foundations programming. Participants consistently reported valuing the opportunity to receive dedicated support from experienced educators outside of their immediate supervisory context, connect with peers across districts, and build professional relationships that helped them feel more supported as they transitioned into teaching.
The Foundations “Guided Trail” pairs new teachers with experienced educators from across Maine for weekly virtual mentorship meetings, reflective classroom observation, and monthly Communities of Practice focused on practical strategies and professional growth. Participants also attend a small number of in-person gatherings, including a statewide Spring Retreat.
The program is designed to complement—not replace—district mentoring and induction supports by providing additional professional connections and dedicated reflective support outside of an evaluative context.
Rural THRIVE Foundations is a mostly virtual opportunity, making participation accessible for educators across Maine’s rural and geographically diverse communities. Participants who complete program expectations may receive up to $1,000.
The program is open to educators beginning their teaching careers in Maine public schools and aims to help new teachers feel supported, connected, and prepared for long-term success in the profession.
Additional information about Rural THRIVE Foundations is available here. Questions may be directed to Laura Bean at laura.bean@maine.edu.
The following information is intended to support school administrative units (SAUs) in preparing for the implementation of a new law requiring that school boards adopt and implement a policy “prohibiting student use of personal electronic devices for the duration of the school day, from starting bell to dismissal bell” by August 1, 2026.
The following language is in Part GG of the Supplemental Budget and replaces the existing language in statute, which required a policy related to the use of personal electronic devices:
“By August 1, 2026, a school board shall adopt and implement a policy prohibiting student use of personal electronic devices for the duration of the school day, from starting bell to dismissal bell. The policy must restrict student use of cellular telephones and other personal electronic devices with Internet or cellular network capabilities. The Department of Education, in coordination with the Maine School Management Association or a successor organization and other relevant stakeholders, shall make available a model policy for school boards. The model policy must include exceptions for compliance with a student’s individualized education program, a documented accommodation under Section 504 of the federal Rehabilitation Act of 1973, 29 United States Code, Section 794 (2026) regarding an individual student, the delivery of prescribed medical care as outlined in a student’s individualized health care plan and language support services for a student who is an emergent English language learner when no other translation option is available.”
Required Action All school boards must adopt a compliant local policy no later than August 1, 2026.
Scope of the Law The law applies to:
Cell phones
Smartwatches
Other personal electronic devices with internet or cellular network capabilities
The legislation establishes a “bell-to-bell” expectation, meaning student use of these devices must be prohibited for the duration of the school day.
Required Exceptions Local policies must include exceptions for:
A student’s Individualized Education Program (IEP)
Documented Section 504 accommodations
Medical care needs
Translation needs when no other option is available
Additional exceptions may be authorized in emergency situations, consistent with local health and safety procedures.
Maine DOE Implementation Guidance The Maine DOE has developed Implementation Guidance intended to support thoughtful, student-centered implementation of bell-to-bell policies. The guidance emphasizes that while personal electronic device use is being prohibited, technology remains an important component of modern teaching and learning.
The guidance includes recommendations related to:
Intentional and instructional use of school-managed technology
Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) considerations
Equity and access for all learners
Restorative and educational approaches to implementation and discipline
Communication, staff training, and implementation planning
The guidance encourages SAUs to distinguish between prohibited personal electronic device use and purposeful instructional technology use, while continuing to support digital literacy, accessibility, and technology-rich learning environments.
Restorative and Educational Approaches The Maine DOE encourages SAUs to approach implementation through clear expectations, consistent routines, and restorative practices that prioritize instruction, reflection, and relationship-centered responses to policy violations whenever possible.
Recommended practices include:
Explicitly teaching expectations and routines
Progressive and educational responses to violations
Restorative conversations and reflection
Family engagement and collaborative problem-solving
Funding Support The Maine DOE will provide funding for SAUs to support costs associated with prohibiting the use of personal electronic devices during the school day. A total of $350,000 has been allocated by the Maine Legislature for this initiative.
Funds will be distributed to SAUs that operate schools serving grades 6 through 12, based on October 1, 2025, attending enrollment counts (linked here). Distribution of funds to those SAUs will occur after the enactment of the Supplemental Budget on July 29, 2026. Funds should be recorded in each SAU as Revenue Code 3290 Miscellaneous State Receipt with a fund code in the range of 2200 – 2214 – Special Revenue Fund – State Grants.
Additional Support Opportunities To support implementation efforts statewide, the Maine DOE and Maine Center for Disease Control and Prevention will offer implementation support opportunities throughout the summer and fall. Additional information regarding webinars, technical assistance, and implementation resources will be shared in the coming weeks.
Questions Questions regarding implementation may be directed to Maine DOE Learning Through Technology team coordinator Emma-Marie Banks at emma-marie.banks@maine.gov. Additional guidance and resources will continue to be shared on the Maine DOE website.
Three new episodes air Thursdays at 8:30 PM on Maine Public Television beginning May 21st — with four more stories coming this fall
Should all Maine towns have universal pre-K access? Is the best way to keep teenagers in school by getting them working in their communities? Can Generative AI be used in our schools ethically?
These and other vital questions will be featured in the second season of Learning from Maine, a new video series about what’s happening and what’s possible in Maine public schools. A co-production between Maine Loves Public Schools and Maine Public, this limited series explores the innovations and triumphs in classrooms across Maine. All episodes will be available to watch at MaineLovesPublicSchools.org following their broadcast on Maine Public Television.
“Learning from Maine” seeks to share what is working in Maine’s public schools and to give educators, parents, and state leaders a window into promising ideas that can spread to other districts. Hosted by pioneering Maine educator Derek Pierce, each episode goes inside a Maine school to find educators, students, and communities doing something extraordinary to address issues from early childhood education and student literacy to boosting graduation rates and preparing Maine’s future workforce.
“It’s been a joy and an honor to see what teachers and students are doing around the state,” Pierce said. “I can’t wait to share these stories with everyone who cares about Maine’s public schools.”
“We are very excited to help bring this series to our audience,” noted Susan Tran, Maine Public’s Chief Programming Officer. “Sharing these stories of innovation in Maine classrooms aligns with Maine Public’s educational mission and our ongoing efforts to provide opportunities for lifelong learning.”
SEASON 2 EPISODES:
Episode 1 (May 21) Margaret Chase Smith Community School, Skowhegan: How a community built the first school in the country where students can enroll as early as 6 weeks old and remain there through elementary school.
Episode 2 (May 28) Mt. Desert Island High School: How one school is teaching students to explore the promise of artificial intelligence—while grappling honestly with its dangers.
Episode 3 (June 4) Brewer High School: How connecting students to real-world careers through Extended Learning Opportunities has led to higher graduation rates and fewer dropouts.
About Maine Loves Public Schools: Maine Loves Public Schools (MLPS) is a statewide organization of educational organizations with a goal of promoting stories from within Maine classrooms. Supported by a broad coalition of educators, from superintendents and principals to school board members and CTE directors, MLPS has engaged hundreds of “Ambassadors” across the state over the past three years. See a full list of supporting organizations at this link.
About Maine Public: Maine Public is Maine’s premier, independent media resource, dedicated to creating exceptional opportunities for the communities it serves to engage with critical issues, compelling stories, and quality entertainment. Maine Public is renowned for creating award-winning programs, as well as airing content from PBS, NPR, and other independent producers. Formed in 1992, Maine Public is an independently owned and operated nonprofit organization with office and studio locations in Bangor, Augusta, Lewiston, and Portland, Maine. For more information, visit mainepublic.org
Maine DOE Newsroom 