Category: Media Releases

MEDIA RELEASE: Maine DOE Climate Education Program in Full Swing Across the State

The new Maine Climate Literacy Plan provides additional guidance and support for school districts participating in the Maine DOE Climate Education Program.
 

AUGUSTA, Maine—The Maine Department of Education (DOE) continues to promote climate education opportunities for school districts statewide with the recent publication of the Maine Climate Literacy Plan. 

In the spring of 2024, the Maine DOE convened a taskforce to develop this statewide climate education plan, designed to support the Maine DOE Climate Education Program, which launched in 2023. This program takes a place-based, interdisciplinary approach to helping students learn more about our planet’s climate system and how it works.

So far in its three-year pilot, the Maine DOE Climate Education Program has supported nearly 30 locally-designed climate education professional learning opportunities throughout the state—including 10 underway this school year. Some examples include:

MSAD 17
Elementary, middle, and high school students in MSAD 17 are engaging in a wide range of experiential, environmental education programs through a partnership with Roberts Farms Preserve and the Center for an Ecology-Based Economy. Advisory groups made of teachers throughout the district help to guide and lead curriculum efforts. MSAD 17 recently expanded its capacity for this climate education work by unveiling a new experiential learning building at Roberts Farm Preserve.

For more information, contact Jill Bartash, MSAD 17 Curriculum Director, at j.bartash@msad17.org. 

MSAD 17 students enjoy time at Roberts Farm Preserve as part of the Maine DOE Climate Education Program.
 

Westbrook Middle School
Westbrook Middle School has a robust farming and environmental education program right in its own backyard. This year as part of the Maine DOE Climate Education Program, the middle school has hosted an educator from the Wild Seed Project three days a week to help teachers explore and learn more about the natural environment. Teachers work with the Wild Seed Project educator to integrate interdisciplinary lessons for students throughout the school day. This programming is set to continue throughout the spring.

For more information, contact Austin Mehlhorn, Regular Education Social Worker, at mehlhorna@westbrookschools.org.

RSU 34
RSU 34 in Old Town is wrapping up a busy year of programming through the Maine DOE Climate Education Program in partnership with the RiSE Center at the University of Maine. This initiative has focused on braiding together Indigenous knowledge and Western science to develop climate education curricula and support teacher professional learning. Celebratory events for this program will be hosted on Thursday, May 29, and Friday, May 30, at the UMaine Orono campus.

For more information, contact Jon Doty, RSU 34 Assistant Superintendent, at jon.doty@rsu34.org.



RSU 34 teachers participate in professional learning at the Hirundo Wildlife Preserve as part of the Maine DOE Climate Education Program.

Nominations Now Open for State and County Teachers of the Year

The Maine Teacher of the Year journey begins with your nomination! Nominate a teacher from your town, county, or region today at www.mainetoy.org/nominate. Nominations are open through January 31.

The Maine Department of Education (DOE) and Educate Maine are excited to announce that nominations are officially open for the 2025 County Teachers of the Year and the 2026 State Teacher of the Year. Maine’s State and County Teachers of the Year serve as advocates for teachers, students, and public education in Maine.

“The Maine Teacher of the Year program is an excellent opportunity to recognize the extraordinary educators across our state who are dedicated to their schools and communities – and who are engaging, inspiring, and motivating their students every day,” Maine DOE Commissioner Pender Makin said. “These nominations will give 16 Maine teachers a prominent platform to share the wonderful, innovative happenings in Maine’s classrooms and advocate for public education.”

Nominations can be made now through 5 p.m. on Friday, January 31, 2025 through a form on the Maine Teacher of the Year website. Nominations will be accepted from students, parents, caregivers, community members, school administrators, colleagues, college faculty members, and associations/organizations. Self-nominations and nominations from family members are not accepted.

Teachers who are nominated must:

  • Hold the appropriate professional certification for their teaching position;
  • Be a certified, in-good-standing, pre-K-12 teacher in a state-accredited public school – including career and technical education and adult education centers, public charter schools, or publicly-supported secondary schools (i.e. private schools that enroll 60 percent or more publicly-funded students, sometimes referred to as “town academies”);
  • Be actively teaching students at least 50% of the workday at the time of nomination and during their year of recognition;
  • Maintain their teaching position and remain in the county for which they are selected throughout the year of recognition;
  • Have a minimum of five years of teaching, three of which are in Maine.

Beyond serving as advocates for education, Maine’s State and County Teachers of the Year serve as advisors to the Maine DOE and state-level education stakeholders across Maine. State and County Teachers of the Year also join a cohort of teacher leaders who actively work together for the betterment of education in Maine. They receive ongoing professional learning and participate in many county and state leadership opportunities.

The 2025 County Teachers of the Year will be announced in May, and the 2026 Maine Teacher of the Year will be selected from the 16 county honorees. Through a selection process designed by educators, the field will be narrowed to semi-finalists and then state finalists before the Maine Teacher of the Year is announced by the Commissioner of the Maine DOE at a school assembly in the fall. Each year, State and County Teachers of the Year are honored at the annual Teacher of the Year Gala.

On behalf of, and in partnership with, the Maine DOE, the Maine Teacher of the Year program is administered by Educate Maine, a business-led organization with a mission of championing college, career readiness, and increased educational attainment. Funding is provided by Bangor Savings Bank, Dead River Company, Geiger, Hannaford, the Maine State Lottery, the Silvernail family, and Unum, with support from the State Board of Education and the Maine County and State Teachers of the Year Association.

“Educate Maine is honored to continue our partnership with the Maine Department of Education to administer the Maine Teacher of the Year program,” Educate Maine Executive Director Dr. Jason Judd said. “Our State and County Teachers of the Year exemplify the incredible dedication, innovation, and impact of educators across Maine. This program celebrates the vital role teachers play in shaping our future, elevates their voices, and strengthens the profession through leadership and advocacy.”

The Maine Teacher of the Year program is committed to a nomination and selection process that ensures people of all backgrounds are represented. Educate Maine and the Maine DOE champion that commitment by encouraging the nomination of educators from all culturally-diverse experiences and backgrounds. Our goal is to expand and diversify our nomination pool.

Through the generous support of Maine businesses, there is no cost to the local district when the Maine Teacher of the Year is out of the classroom on their official duties, which include representing educators statewide and nationally and highlighting the important work of Maine schools, communities, and educators.

For more information about the Maine Teacher of the Year program, please visit the Maine Teacher of the Year website.

MEDIA RELEASE: Portland Third Graders Create Ornaments for National Christmas Tree Display in Washington, D.C. 

2024 Maine Teacher of the Year Joshua Chard recently represented the state of Maine and his students at the 102nd National Christmas Tree Lighting event in Washington, D.C.

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Elementary students in Portland recently created original ornaments that are now on the national stage, decorating Maine’s tree for the 2024 National Christmas Tree display at the White House in Washington, D.C.

Led by their teacher, 2024 Maine Teacher of the Year Joshua Chard, third graders from East End Community School designed ornaments for the Maine tree this year as part of the 

America Celebrates

64(26.8%) ornament program, an annual collaboration of the National Park Service, the U.S. Department of Education, and the National Park Foundation. Through this program, ordinary Americans create ornaments to symbolize the history, heritage, and culture of their homelands.

“In third grade, my students explore the history of the Presumpscot River, which flows into the bay visible from our classroom windows,” explained Chard. “We learn how the Wabanaki tribes have served as water protectors of these rivers, both in the past and today, and we take action to support rivers and the diverse life they sustain. Our ornaments showcase the flora and fauna found along the banks of the Presumpscot, symbolizing what we strive to protect, as we join the Wabanaki in being water protectors.”

Chard recently represented the state of Maine and his students at the 102nd National Christmas Tree Lighting event in Washington, D.C. During the event, President Joe Biden lit the National Christmas Tree, which is surrounded by 58 smaller trees representing states, territories, and schools managed by the Bureau of Indian Education and the Department of Defense Education Activity.

Vice President Kamala Harris, Second Gentleman Douglas Emhoff, and other special guests from across the nation attended, and musical artists Trisha Yearwood and James Taylor performed. The tree-lighting event will air on CBS on Friday, December 20.

While in Washington, D.C, Chard also visited with Maine Senator Angus King, toured the U.S. Capitol and the White House to view holiday decorations, and connected with fellow State Teachers of the Year from Illinois and Maryland.

Please click here for additional pictures from Joshua Chard’s visit to Washington, D.C.

90(37.7%)



2024 Maine Teacher of the Year Joshua Chard recently represented Maine at the 102nd National Christmas Tree display in Washington, D.C. 



Joshua Chard’s third-grade students at East End Elementary School created ornaments for the Maine tree at the National Christmas Tree display in Washington, D.C.



While in Washington, D.C., Joshua Chard met with Maine Senator Angus King. 

###

MEDIA RELEASE: Maine Announces State Delegates for 63rd Annual United States Senate Youth Program 

Sam Drummey of Thornton Academy and Emmett Appell of Erskine Academy will represent Maine at the United States Senate Youth Program in Washington, D.C. in March of 2025. 

AUGUSTA, Maine – The Maine Department of Education (DOE) is thrilled to announce the selection of Maine’s delegates for the 63rd annual prestigious United States Senate Youth Program (USSYP). On Monday, December 2, two exceptional Maine students, Sam Drummey and Emmett Appell, were recognized at their schools for their outstanding leadership, academic achievements, and community involvement. They will represent Maine in Washington, D.C. in March of 2025 for an immersive week-long program, designed to deepen students’ understanding of the U.S. government and inspire future leaders. 

Sam Drummey is a senior at Thornton Academy. He serves as the Student Body’s Vice President and is a passionate advocate for environmental sustainability and equal rights. Sam is deeply involved in his community, serving on the City of Biddeford’s Ad Hoc Sustainability Committee and the Biddeford Sustainability Commission. He has earned top academic honors, including awards in Honors Sophomore English, AP Human Geography, Honors Blind Eye of History, and nine other courses. Outside of the classroom, Sam actively volunteers with Maine Youth Action Network, MaineTransNet, and GrowSmart Maine. He is also a member of several school organizations, including the Student Council, Environmental Club, National Honor Society, Model UN, and the Speech Team. Sam’s future career aspirations focus on ensuring equal rights for all, protecting the environment, and working toward a renewable energy transition. His goal is to mitigate the negative impacts of environmental changes on vulnerable populations, while expanding access to vital services like housing and health care. 

Emmett Appell is a senior at Erskine Academy. He is a dynamic leader with a passion for both public service and STEM. He is President of the Student Council and Environmental Club, Co-Founder of the Math Team, and Vice President of the International Outreach Coalition. Emmett is also the First Chair Saxophonist in the Jazz Band and the Captain of the Soccer Team. His academic excellence has earned him the Rensselaer Medal and the George Eastman Young Leaders Award, along with competitive research positions at MDI Biological Laboratory, the Keller BLOOM Program at Bigelow Laboratory for Ocean Sciences, and Colby College’s Professor Dasan Thamattoor’s lab. Emmett’s leadership extends to volunteering as Chief of Staff at Dirigo State and as a Rural Youth Activist at JustMe for JustUS. His passion for public service began early, inspired by attending selectboard meetings with his father and witnessing the impact of local government. Emmett plans to pursue a liberal arts education in college to continue his work in policy and STEM, with a long-term goal of becoming a congressman. 

“We are incredibly proud of these outstanding students who have demonstrated exemplary leadership, dedication to community service, and a deep commitment to learning,” Beth Lambert, Chief Teaching and Learning Officer for the Maine Department of Education, said. “Both Sam and Emmett embody the values of the United States Senate Youth Program, and we are confident that they will bring their passion for public service and civic engagement to Washington, D.C., as they represent Maine at the national level.” 

Members of both Senator Susan Collins’ office and Senator Angus King’s office, as well as representatives from the Maine Secretary of State’s office, were present during Monday’s announcement, underscoring the importance of fostering civic engagement and leadership in Maine’s young people. 

The USSYP, established by Senate Resolution 324 in 1962, offers a unique opportunity for young leaders to gain a deeper understanding of the federal government and meet with U.S. senators, government officials, and political leaders. In addition to the immersive experience, each delegate will receive a $10,000 college scholarship. 

For more information about the United States Senate Youth Program, please click here.

From left to right: Sarah Stanley, York County Regional Representative, Senator Angus King; Pamela Buck, State Office Representative, Senator Susan Collins; Delilah Poupore, Sam’s mother; Sam Drummey; Jonathan Drummey, Sam’s father; Beth Lambert, Chief Teaching and Learning Officer, Maine Department of Education; Vanessa Diaz Gaumond, Youth Programs Coordinator, Maine Department of the Secretary of State
 

From left to right: Kathy Finnemore, Constituent Services Representative, Senator Susan Collins; Karen Fox, Constituent Services Representative, Senator Angus King; Emmett Appel; Beth Lambert, Chief Teaching and Learning Officer, Maine Department of Education; Vanessa Diaz Gaumond, Youth Programs Coordinator, Maine Department of the Secretary of State

MEDIA RELEASE: The Maine Department of Education Opens New Outdoor Learning Pavilion on Mackworth Island

The Maine Outdoor Learning Pavilion is the latest effort by the Maine Department of Education to support outdoor education in Maine.

FALMOUTH, Maine — On Wednesday, Nov. 6, the Maine Department of Education (DOE) unveiled the Maine Outdoor Learning Pavilion on Mackworth Island, marking another milestone in the push to combat pandemic-related learning loss through outdoor education.

The pavilion is the latest addition to the Maine DOE’s Maine Outdoor Learning Initiative, which has connected more than 14,000 students to high-quality outdoor learning programs since 2021. This past summer, thousands of Maine students participated in more than 100 outdoor programs, from backpacking the Appalachian Trail to learning to sail to exploring nature-based careers.

“Outdoor learning is central to student engagement, health, and wellbeing” said Maine DOE Commissioner Pender Makin. “Since the summer of 2021, we’ve invested more than $11 million in the Maine Outdoor Learning Initiative to provide students with highly-engaging outdoor and environmental learning opportunities.”

“Before last year, I thought that learning was meant for classrooms,” George, an eighth-grade student from Scarborough Middle School, said. “I realized how being outside can teach us so much, from hands-on learning to real-life scenarios. The outdoors was a great environment to learn. It provided plenty of fresh air, along with a break from sitting still. When we were outside, I felt happier and had more energy. When we came back inside, I was relaxed, focused, and ready to learn.”

The new facility unveiled on Wednesday, nestled in the woods at the center of Mackworth Island, features a pavilion and an adjacent lawn, designed to make outdoor education more accessible for Maine schools.

“The Maine Outdoor Learning Pavilion is a place where schools can bring students to make learning come alive,” Jonathan Ross, superintendent of the Acton School Department and Maine DOE Outdoor Learning Initiative Coordinator, said. “Maine schools can bring a class here, teach a lesson under the pavilion or inside where we will have desks and bathrooms, and then take that lesson onto the trails around the island.”

At Wednesday’s event, students and educators from Scarborough, South Portland, Biddeford, Wiscasset, and Acton schools shared their experiences with the Maine Outdoor Learning Program.

Photos of students are courtesy of the South Portland School Department.

Sarah, an eighth-grade student from Wiscasset Middle School, emphasized the program’s impact on her education.

“The biggest lessons that I learned last year were that learning is all around us, and the things that you can learn outdoors are so worthwhile,” she said. “Even if you think that you don’t need a break from your school day, going outside and giving your brain breaks is always helpful.”

Tabatha Frawkins, a science teacher at Biddeford Alternative Pathways Center, shared powerful feedback from parents about the program’s effectiveness. She said one parent told her, “The wilderness program gave me back my son and all his glory and gave my son back the confidence and the desire to attend school. He went on to attend leadership classes for his senior year and is on track to graduate.”

Wednesday’s event concluded with a nature-based scavenger hunt across the island, which Ross and the Maine DOE coordinated.

The Maine Outdoor Learning Pavilion was created using federal emergency relief funding as part of Maine’s Whole Student Pandemic Response and represents the Maine DOE’s broader commitment to outdoor education. For more information, please visit the Maine DOE Newsroom.

To reserve the pavilion, schools may reach out to Jonathan Ross at jonathan.j.ross@maine.gov.

MEDIA RELEASE: Wiscasset Elementary School Teacher Becky Hallowell Named 2025 Maine Teacher of the Year

The Maine Department of Education (DOE) and Educate Maine have named Wiscasset Elementary School fourth-grade teacher Becky Hallowell as Maine’s 2025 Teacher of the Year. The announcement was made during a surprise ceremony Thursday with students and educators at Hallowell’s school in Wiscasset.

“The Maine Teacher of the Year program recognizes exemplary educators in our state and provides a platform for highlighting the work of Maine’s public schools,” Maine Department of Education Commissioner Pender Makin said. “As an innovative educator who prioritizes engaging, projects-based learning for her students, Becky Hallowell will bring valuable perspective to this role. Her commitment to learning—both inside and outside of the traditional classroom—makes her an ideal pick for 2025 Maine Teacher of the Year.”

Hallowell’s Teacher of the Year journey began in May when she was named the 2024 Lincoln County Teacher of the Year. Along with 15 other County Teachers of the Year, Hallowell was selected from a pool of hundreds of teachers who were nominated. In August, she was named one of four state finalists before being selected as the 2025 Maine Teacher of the Year.

Becky Hallowell teaches fourth-grade students at Wiscasset Elementary School on the bank of the Sheepscot River in Wiscasset, Maine. Hallowell earned her Bachelor of Arts degree in Early Childhood Education from the University of Maine at Farmington in 1994 and then received her Master of Science in Educational Leadership from the University of Southern Maine in 2011. She is the 2024 Lincoln County Teacher of the Year. Hallowell embraces a pedagogy that honors nature and place-based learning, establishing connections between students and the local, state, and global community. She believes learning is more powerful when linked to content that students personally value and find meaningful as they engage in project-based learning. While she finds great joy in supporting student learning, Hallowell commits to her own learning and that of her colleagues both as a mentor and a mentor trainer. She has teamed with the Maine Math and Science Alliance in a research project connecting place-based learning and science sense-making, presenting her work to other educators at conferences. Hallowell also collaborated with her teaching partner and a University of Maine at Farmington professor to connect preservice teachers with fourth-grade students to discuss literature. She presented this work with her partners at the National Council for Teachers of English conference in 2023. Hallowell enjoys exploring new trails in her free time, often finding a lesson in a unique mushroom or rock formation. She lives in Whitefield with her husband, three sons, and pesky kitty.

“Teachers have the most important job of guiding students to become the best possible versions of themselves,” said 2025 Maine Teacher of the Year Becky Hallowell. “Our children are Maine’s most valuable resource, and, as Maine Teacher of the Year, I look forward to celebrating the dedicated, creative, and compassionate teachers who show up for Maine children every day.”

The Teacher of the Year Program is a year-long process that involves educator portfolio and resume submissions, interviews, oral presentations, and classroom visits made by a selection panel comprised of State Board of Education members, school administrators, Maine Department of Education staff, legacy Teachers of the Year, and other Maine business partners. Hallowell was nominated for the honor by her teaching colleague, Neera Harmon.

“Educate Maine is thrilled to congratulate Becky Hallowell on being named the 2025 Maine Teacher of the Year. Her dedication to place-based learning and her commitment to fostering meaningful student connections are inspiring, and we look forward to supporting her as she embarks on this exciting journey,” said Dr. Jason Judd, Executive Director of Educate Maine.

As the 2025 Maine Teacher of the Year, Hallowell will spend her year of service advocating for students and teachers and speaking to the importance of education in preparing Maine students for the future.  She will also represent Maine in the National Teacher of the Year program.

According to 2024 Maine Teacher of the Year Joshua Chard, “Becky is about to embark on the professional journey of a lifetime. It will be a year of professional learning, educational advocacy, and celebration of all of the amazing teaching and learning happening in schools in Maine and across the nation. Becky’s passion for and leadership in outdoor education positions her perfectly to be a leader in this national cohort of exceptional educators.”

“On behalf of the entire Wiscasset schools community, I want to express our immense pride and gratitude that Becky Hallowell has been named Maine Teacher of the Year for 2025!” said Kim Andersson, Wiscasset School Department Superintendent of Schools. “This comes as no surprise to us; Becky is an innovative outdoor educator whose love of life and learning inspires and elevates everyone around her. Her work fosters care and knowledge about the environment and teaches every student the importance of their impact on the world around them. It’s truly remarkable, and so is Becky!”

The Maine Teacher of the Year program is administered by Educate Maine, a business-led advocacy organization, in partnership with the Maine Department of Education, the Maine State Board of Education, and the Maine County and State Teachers and County of the Year Association (MCSTOYA). Funding for the program is generously provided by Bangor Savings Bank, Dead River, Geiger, Hannaford, Maine Lottery, the Silvernail Family, and Unum.

Read an article about a day at Wiscasset Elementary School in Becky Hallowell’s classroom.

For more information about the Maine Teacher of the Year program, visit http://www.mainetoy.org.

 

2025 Maine Teacher of the Year State Finalists Announced 

Four Maine teachers were announced today as the State Finalists for the 2025 Maine Teacher of the Year program.

High school science teacher Allyson Gilbert from Sagadahoc County, fourth-grade teacher Becky Hallowell from Lincoln County, high school science teacher Katie Strait from Cumberland County, and high school English language arts teacher Emilie Throckmorton from Penobscot County were all selected to move forward in the Teacher of the Year process and were chosen from the 2024 Maine County Teachers of the Year.

“Allyson, Becky, Katie, and Emilie are extraordinary educators who care deeply about their students, schools, and communities. They lift up everyone around them, are passionate about their profession, and are true champions of all students and schools in Maine. These four finalists represent the best qualities of Maine’s amazing educators, and I congratulate them on this well-deserved honor,” said Maine Education Commissioner Pender Makin.

One of the four State Finalists will be named the 2025 Maine Teacher of the Year, an honor awarded each year to one teacher in Maine. The announcement will be in October after the final stages of the selection process are complete. Maine’s Teacher of the Year serves as an advocate for the teaching profession, Maine schools, and students, and represents Maine in the National Teacher of the Year program.

A member of their community nominated each educator for their exemplary service in education and dedication to their students. They were selected by a distinguished panel of teachers, principals, and business community members from a pool of hundreds of other nominated teachers in their communities. The Maine Department of Education, Educate Maine, the Maine State Board of Education, and the Maine County and State Teacher of the Year Association made the announcement about the finalists.

“The state finalists are excellent examples of the inspiring and innovative teaching that happens each day in Maine classrooms. Congratulations to each of them and their districts,” said Dr. Jason Judd, Executive Director of Educate Maine.  “Maine is fortunate to have so many inspiring educators working each day to ensure that learners have what they need to be successful, and we look forward to working with these four and the entire 2024 County Teacher of the Year cohort as they continue their journey as teacher leaders and ambassadors for the profession.”

“Our teaching workforce drives the quality of our schools and education system here in Maine, and these state finalists exemplify the qualities we look for. They’re innovative, dedicated, and committed to ensuring all Maine learners receive a high quality and supportive education,” said Fern Desjardins, Chair of the Maine State Board of Education. “Congratulations to all!”

This group of outstanding educators has impressed me from the first day that I met them,” said Joshua Chard 2024 Maine Teacher of the Year. “They approach this important work from a place of passion and caring, and it has been amazing to learn from them and with them. I know that Maine schools are in good hands with educators like them representing the teaching profession in our state.”

“We are thrilled to continue learning from these four finalists and are excited to gain further insights from these outstanding Maine educators,” said MCSTOYA co-presidents Jessica Harvey and Hillary Bellefleur. “They exemplify the professionalism, compassion, and dedication that characterize teachers across our state. Their impact on their students, communities, and the state is profound, and we look forward to supporting them in showcasing the strengths and continuing the growth of Maine’s public education system.”

More information on the State Finalists and the Maine Teacher of the Year program:

Allyson Gilbert
Mt. Ararat High School, Topsham
2024 Sagadahoc County Teacher of the Year

“Being part of the Teacher of the Year program is a tremendous honor and I am immensely proud to represent my school, district, and community. I am excited to continue highlighting the outstanding work of Maine educators who make a real difference every day, while also having the opportunity to learn and grow alongside such dedicated professionals.”

Allyson Gilbert teaches 9th grade physical science and 10th grade biology at Mt Ararat High School in Topsham, Maine. Gilbert earned her Bachelor of Science in Biological Sciences with a minor in Chemistry from Salve Regina University in Rhode Island, and earned her Master of Science in Wildlife Conservation and Management – Professional Wildlife Biologist from Unity College in Maine. She is the 2024 Sagadahoc County Teacher of the Year. Gilbert’s pedagogy is centered around project-based learning with an emphasis on connecting topics to local and global contexts. Her passion has led her to create student travel opportunities to locations such as Belize, Panama, and Greece. Gilbert firmly believes in the power of connection, and seeks opportunities to cultivate meaningful relationships with her students, co-workers, and members of the community. Committed to creating a cohesive school community outside of her classroom, Gilbert serves as a class advisor, a member of the attendance team, and a part of her school’s advisory committee. She is a lifelong learner, and frequently attends workshops and conferences in order to inform her own teaching practices. Recently, Gilbert has presented at two conferences on the importance and value of nature-based play and learning. When not teaching you can find her traveling, reading, or spending a relaxing night with her tortoise, Igor.

Becky Hallowell
Wiscasset Elementary School, Wiscasset
2024 Lincoln County Teacher of the Year

“The Maine Teacher of the Year process has allowed me to honor past teachers, like my mother, who dedicated her career to her first-grade students, as well as current teachers like my colleagues in Wiscasset and those who taught my sons. Most importantly, celebrating Maine’s talented educators plays an important role in inspiring our current students to become our future teachers.”

Becky Hallowell teaches fourth-grade students at Wiscasset Elementary School, on the bank of the Sheepscot River in Wiscasset, Maine. Hallowell earned her Bachelor of Arts degree in Early Childhood Education from the University of Maine at Farmington in 1994 and then received her Master of Science in Educational Leadership from the University of Southern Maine in 2011. She is the 2024 Lincoln County Teacher of the Year. Hallowell embraces a pedagogy that honors nature and place-based learning, establishing connections between students and the local, state, and global community. She believes learning is more powerful when linked to content that students personally value and find meaningful as they engage in project-based learning. While she finds great joy in supporting student learning, Hallowell commits to her own learning and that of her colleagues both as a mentor and a mentor trainer. She has teamed with the Maine Math and Science Alliance in a research project connecting place-based learning and science sense-making, presenting her work to other educators at conferences. Hallowell also collaborated with her teaching partner and a University of Maine at Farmington professor to connect preservice teachers with fourth-grade students to discuss literature. She presented this work with her partners at the National Council for Teachers of English conference in 2023. Hallowell enjoys exploring new trails in her free time, often finding a lesson in a unique mushroom or rock formation. She lives in Whitefield with her husband, three sons, and pesky kitty.

Katie Strait
Baxter Academy for Science and Technology, Portland
2024 Cumberland County Teacher of the Year

“The Maine Teacher of the Year program not only highlights the achievements of individual teachers, but serves to inspire the entire educational community. I am eternally grateful for the teachers that ignited my lifelong passion for science, and for my students, colleagues, administrators, and community that continue to fuel my lifelong love of learning. It is a great honor to represent Cumberland County and walk alongside all of the outstanding teachers that are paving the way for students’ futures.”

Katie Strait teaches 10th – 12th grade biology, immunology, and marine biology at Baxter Academy for Technology and Science in Portland, Maine. Strait has a Master of Science degree in Zoology from the University of New Hampshire, and Bachelor of Science degree in Biology, with a concentration in marine biology from the University of New England. She is the 2024 Cumberland County Teacher of the Year. Strait’s pedagogy centers on experiential learning, prioritizing student involvement through hands-on activities and collaborations with the community. She connects the curriculum to real-world contexts, specifically centered around the Gulf of Maine, nurturing lifelong learners who contribute positively to their communities and act as stewards of the environment. Strait is a member of the Restorative Practices Leadership Team, and the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Leadership Team. She has a deep passion to create inclusion and equity within our schools climate and culture, ultimately empowering students to achieve their fullest potential. She belongs to Southern Maine’s Connected Learning Ecosystems (CLE) sponsored by the Gulf of Maine Research Institute, which has cultivated collaboration between other science educators and community members on climate literacy and ocean stewardship – another deep passion of hers. Strait was the 2024 recipient of Hannaford’s 20 Outstanding Women award, because of her commitment to make her community a better place to live in through her Plastic Mitigation Initiative. When she’s not teaching, you can find her surfing, gardening, doing photography, or at the beach with her wife, children, and two dogs.

Emilie Throckmorton
Bangor High School, Bangor
2024 Penobscot County Teacher of the Year

“I am so honored and proud to represent Bangor Schools and all the creative and thoughtful work that goes on every day for students. I’m passionate about teaching, especially advocating for students who struggle with mental health, and the amazing people who work in the Maine Teacher of the Year Program have stretched me and given me confidence to share my ideas.”

Emilie Throckmorton is a 9-12 English teacher at Bangor High School in Bangor, Maine. Throckmorton earned her Bachelor of Arts degree in English Literature and Language from the University of Michigan, Master of Education in Secondary English from the University of Maine, a Certificate of Advanced Study in Writing and the Teaching of Writing from the University of Maine, and a Doctorate in Education from the University of New England, where she completed her desertion on using the English curriculum to promote Social and Emotional Learning. She is also a National Board Certified Teacher. Throckmorton connects with and motivates students at all levels of academic success and prides herself on creating a classroom environment that fosters inclusion and belonging. Using a student-centered approach and focusing on choice, Throckmorton believes strongly in helping all students find a love for reading and cultivating a voice in writing. Outside of the classroom, Throckmorton works closely with students by advising the LGBTQ+ kids in Q+ Club, and has been the advisor for the school’s literary magazine Mosaic for over 20 years. She has also served as a Class Council advisor, a Graduation Coach, a member of the Student Support Team, and the coordinator of the school-wide Poetry Out Loud contest. Throckmorton is passionate about mental health awareness and how teachers can support students by normalizing discussion about mental health in the classroom. When not at school, Throckmorton thrives on spending time with her husband and children, she also loves hiking, yoga, skiing, and running.

The Maine Department of Education’s Teacher of the Year program is administered through a unique partnership with Educate Maine, the Maine County and State Teacher of the Year Association (MCSTOYA) and the Maine State Board of Education. Funding for the program is generously provided by Bangor Savings Bank, Dead River, Geiger, Hannaford, Maine Lottery, the Silvernail Family, and Unum.

For more information about the Maine County Teacher of the Year Program and to see a list of County Teachers of the Year, and Maine Teachers of the Year, visit http://www.mainetoy.org.

Maine Teacher of the Year Semifinalists Announced

Eight Teachers Will Continue Through the Teacher of the Year Process

Augusta, ME–Eight Maine teachers were announced today as the state semifinalists for the 2025 Maine Teacher of the Year.  These inspiring educators, members of the 2024 County Teacher of the Year cohort, embody the dedication, innovation, and leadership synonymous with Maine’s exceptional classroom teachers. As ambassadors for their students, colleagues, and school communities, their selection acknowledges their excellence in teaching and celebrates the collective achievements and commitment of the entire teaching profession in Maine.

The semifinalists for the 2025 Maine Teacher of the Year are:

“Congratulations to all the semifinalists on this well-deserved recognition,” said Maine Education Commissioner Pender Makin. “I’m so inspired by the extraordinary work you do each and every day on behalf of your students, schools, and communities. Thank you for stepping up to represent Maine teachers as County Teachers of the Year and now as Teacher of the Year Semifinalists.” 

“We are thrilled to recognize these outstanding educators who exemplify the passion and dedication that define Maine’s teaching community,” said Educate Maine Executive Director Jason Judd. “Their commitment to student success and innovation in the classroom is truly commendable. We look forward to the next phases of the selection process and the announcement of the 2025 Maine Teacher of the Year.”

The selection process for the Maine Teacher of the Year Program is rigorous and reflective, designed by educators to offer candidates an opportunity to reflect on their instructional practice.  Each educator was nominated in January by a member of their community for their commitment to their students and exemplary service in education. They first participated in the County Selection Process, where a distinguished panel of teachers, principals, and business community members selected them as a County Teacher of the Year from among hundreds of nominees.  In May, they embarked on the state Teacher of the Year process, showcasing their instructional practices through a classroom video and written reflection.

In the next phase of the selection process, the semifinalists will deliver keynote speeches, submit professional portfolios, and participate in an expert panel discussion on educational equity, teacher leadership, and education policy.  The state finalists will be announced in September, and the 2025 Maine Teacher of the Year will be revealed in October. The 2025 Maine Teacher of the Year will serve as an ambassador for the teaching profession and represent Maine in the National Teacher of the Year program.

The Maine Teacher of the Year program is administered by Educate Maine through a unique partnership with  the Maine Department of Education with support from the Maine County and State Teacher of the Year Association (MCSTOYA) and the Maine State Board of Education. Funding for the program is generously provided by Bangor Savings Bank, Dead River, Geiger, Hannaford, Maine Lottery, the Silvernail Family, and Unum.

For more information about the Maine County Teacher of the Year Program and to see a list of County Teachers of the Year, and Maine Teachers of the Year, visit http://www.mainetoy.org.

 

Media Release: Students and Families in Dover-Foxcroft Kick Off Hot Lunch Summer with New SUN Bucks Program

(A local farm brought calves and one got for students to put in honor of National Dairy Month.)

Dover-Foxcroft – Students and families gathered at SeDoMoCha Elementary School (RSU 68) on Monday to kick off the 2024 Hot Lunch Summer Meal Program and the new SUN Bucks benefit. The event, supported by officials from the Maine Department of Education (DOE), Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS), United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), and RSU 68, showcased new options to help ensure children have access to nutritious meals throughout the summer months.

SUN Bucks, announced last month by Maine DHHS’ Office for Family Independence, is an Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) program that provides families with a one-time benefit of $120 for each eligible school-aged child to supplement the summer grocery budget. Funds are sent directly to an EBT card for qualified families to purchase meals for students across the summer months.

“The USDA’s Summer Nutrition Programs are an extraordinary opportunity to close the summer hunger gap. We, at USDA, are thrilled to be able to offer Maine SUN Bucks a new opportunity to support students in the summer months,” said Sakeenah Shabazz, a national senior policy advisor for the USDA Food and Nutrition Service.

Many schools and summer camp groups gathered at SeDoMoCha on Monday for the celebration. The theme of the day was “Get Mooving,” a nod to National Dairy Month. At cow print-covered tables, students were fed nutritious meals with samples from Oakhurst Dairy and Pineland Farms and colored pictures of happy cows. After lunch, students got to pet local farm animals.

Representatives from the Maine DOE, and DHHS greeted students as they headed outside to play.

Parents also came out to celebrate the Hot Lunch Summer program and learn about the newest summer meal option. “Me and the kids have come up for the past few years for meals. They love to do it. They love the food. It is a great program, and we are grateful the school has it because we are a low-income family,” explained one SeDoMoCha parent. “SUN Bucks is awesome; I am already signed up. I just got a letter in the mail that said I automatically qualified, so I didn’t have to wait or really do anything.”

Families already participating in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF), Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations (FDPIR), experiencing homelessness, part of migrant families, or receiving MaineCare with a verified annual income under 185% of the federal poverty level will be automatically enrolled in SUN Bucks.  

This new meal option comes in addition to congregate and non-congregate programs. Congregate meals, which are served at schools, have been available to families since the pandemic. Non-congregate meals, which are delivered, are also a recent expansion of Hot Lunch Summer.

“SUN Bucks is a wonderful addition to the Summer Meals Program we’ve been running for years and years. We have over 400 sites across the state of Maine where children can receive meals, either congregate or non-congregate. Hot Lunch Summer is keeping these kids healthy over the summer and keeping them learning,” said Maine Department of Education Child Nutrition Director Jane McLucas.

“The SUN Bucks program just goes in addition to what we’re doing. It’s just awesome. I bring smiles to kids’ faces, and I put food in their bellies,” said RSU 68 Food Service Director Heather Whitten.

SUN Bucks can be used anywhere that accepts SNAP benefits, including grocery stores, farmers’ markets, and convenience stores. It is especially beneficial for families living in rural Maine, who may have to travel further to reach a meal site.

“The SUN Bucks program is really exciting for so many of us,” said Michael Downs, Senior Program Manager of SNAP within the Office for Family Independence at the Maine DHHS. “Giving families an EBT benefit that they can spend at their local grocery store or farmers markets to make sure they have healthy foods in their homes for meals and snacks helps fill in some of the gaps that can arise during the summer months.”

Student’s filed into the kitchen for some Hot Lunch Summer meals.

Friday, June 28th, at the Kittery Community Center, there will be another Hot Lunch Summer kickoff, with more nutritious foods and summer activities. For more information on that event, please get in touch with Wendy Collins at wcollins@kitteryschools.com.

SUN Bucks is a federally funded program run by the USDA. For more information on Hot Lunch Summer, please visit the Maine DOE website.

For more information about the SUN Bucks program, including how to apply, visit the Maine DHHS website.

Media Release: Maine DOE Celebrates Deer Isle-Stonington Elementary School and Deering High School Employees as 2024 RISE Award State Honorees

Food Service Coordinator Sheila Nevells and Administrative Secretary Liana Littig Selected as Recognizing Inspiring School Employees (RISE) State Finalists

Maine Education Commissioner Pender Makin joined School Union 76 school leaders and staff to honor Food Service Coordinator Sheila Nevells, and Deputy Commissioner Dan Chuhta joined Deering High School and Portland Public School leaders and staff to honor Administrative Secretary Liana Littig with the Recognizing Inspiring School Employees (RISE) Award for the extraordinary contributions they have made to their students, schools, and communities. Both honorees are known for their dedication to their communities and their support for colleagues and students.

Created by Congress in 2019 and overseen by the U.S. Department of Education, the prestigious RISE Award honors non-teaching school employees who provide exemplary service. Nevells and Littig were selected as the two state-level honorees out of ten finalists. Nearly 70 nominations were submitted to the Maine Department of Education (DOE) by colleagues and community members. Nevells and Littig were selected to represent Maine for consideration for the national RISE Award.

“I am in awe of Sheila. You are a true hero, a champion of education, and a champion of making sure kids get fed. The most fundamental thing that can happen for any of us is the food that feeds our souls and our bodies, and fuels us for learning. You have consistently gone so far above and beyond to make sure the kids in your school and community are fed,” said Maine Education Commissioner Pender Makin while presenting the honor to Nevells.

“You make my job easy. I enjoy cooking for every one of you. I enjoy talking with every one of you every day. I am humbled and very appreciative of this award,” said School Union 76 Food Service Coordinator and Maine’s 2024 RISE Award State Honoree Sheila Nevells. 

“Liana’s day-to-day dedication to the students, families, and staff at Deering High School has been described by her colleagues as ‘unmatched’. You are an essential part of the school, a valued community member, and a true example of a public servant,” said Maine Department of Education Deputy Commissioner Dan Chuhta while presenting the honor to Litig.

“Everyone who knows Liana says she is remarkable. She has especially impacted our Portuguese students and embraced them warmly, connecting them with the resources they need. She is so helpful and never makes anyone feel less than for needing help. We all adore her,” said Deering High School Assistant Principal Halima Noor.

“I feel so loved and appreciated. This is such a good place. They are so good to me,” said Deering High School Administrative Secretary and Maine’s 2024 RISE Award State Honoree Liana Littig. 

RISE nominees demonstrate excellence in the following areas: (A) Work performance; (B) School and community involvement; (C) Leadership and commitment; (D) Local support (from co-workers, school administrators, community members, etc., who speak to the nominee’s exemplary work); (E) Enhancement of classified school employees’ image in the community and schools.

Maine’s Two RISE State Honorees 

Liana Littig 
Administrative Secretary
Portland Public Schools

From Liana’s nomination: Liana’s involvement in school and community is unmatched. She is the first person students and staff see when they walk in the door. For many of our newcomer students who speak Portuguese, it is the first time someone in the school system stops and has a deep, kind and welcoming conversation with them in Portuguese. All students know if they have a question to find Ms. Littig in the main office because she always has the answer or knows who does! No student is turned away without receiving a thoughtful response when she is in the office.

Liana is not a gatekeeper of knowledge but rather imparts knowledge and the know-hows of all she does to better equip staff, students and parents with what they need to have a successful day at school. Liana has also become well known in the community, especially with immigrant families.

Liana’s sense of confidence and calm demeanor has ensured our students, staff, parents and building are able to withstand even the most challenging disruptions with ease. That air of confidence and calmness shrouds the entire building and allows every single person to genuinely feel like everything is under control. That is credit to Ms. Littig!

Sheila Nevells 
Food Service Coordinator
School Union 76

Fom Sheila’s nomination: Since Sheila took over as Food Service Coordinator in 2017, her work performance and leadership and commitment have been exemplary. She quickly learned all the ins and outs of USDA and our food service funding, and then took it upon herself to see that no child on our island ever went hungry. Sheila learned how to write grants, and then found every way available to provide food for everyone. CACFP, No Kid Hungry, summer food program -she went after them and worked hard to provide all these opportunities for our children and families. She organized an amazing food delivery service during the COVID lockdown and continues to provide comprehensive food service despite a number of administrative changes. Sheila goes above and beyond, and it all comes from her big heart and love for this Sheila is a quiet leader, but the programming that she does gets some great PR. She is a role model for all of us in the school system and to our children and families who come in contact with her every day. Her work ethic, ambition and drive to help others, and her big smile and caring heart impact us all.

Sheila has also done all the extra work of getting grants and running extra programming on top of her everyday work of also being Head Cook at Deer Isle-Stonington Elementary School. Sheila doesn’t sit in an office all day – she cooks and serves and talks to all the kids, cleans up, and then she sits in her office after hours getting all the paperwork done and finding new ways to feed our families. Sheila is Lunch Lady Extraordinaire!
Maine’s RISE State Finalists 

Sarah Beam
School Social Worker
Talbot Community School, Portland Public Schools

Kerrie Edgerton
Executive Assistant to the Superintendent
Biddeford School Department

Kadija Fulli
Custodian
Portland High School, Portland Public Schools

Ben Jacobson
Food Service Director
RSU 26

David Martin
Director of Maintenance
Maine School of Science and Mathematics

Tanya Ouellette
Secretary
Sabattus Primary, RSU 4

Nicole Richard
Ed Tech
Veazie Community School

Christine Small
Nurse’s Assistant
Portland High School, Portland Public Schools

Shelley Tinker
Transportation/Bus Driver
Lubec, SAD 19