Category: Newsroom Articles

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

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

If your SAU plans to start and/or expand public pre-K in the 2026-2027 school year and wishes to receive an estimated FY27 pre-K allocation, please complete the FY27 Estimate Pre-K Student Count data form by November 14, 2025.

This form includes three questions:

  1. What is your SAU? (Choose your SAU from a drop-down list.)
  2. Do you have an existing pre-K program (FY26)? – Yes/No
  3. What is your SAU’s estimated increase in pre-K enrollment (i.e., the number of new slots that will be available in new or expanded programs)?

SAUs completing this form must also complete the Pre-K Program Application through the Maine DOE Early Learning Team by April 30, 2026, and obtain program approval.

The FY27 Estimate Pre-K Student Count data form is intended to capture the projected enrollment for new and expanding pre-K programs only. The estimated student count that you provide will be added to your SAU’s current FY26 enrollment to calculate FY27 pre-K funding on the ED279.

Your SAU’s October 1, 2026 verified total pre-K enrollment (reported on page two of the ED279) should reflect the combined total of your FY26 enrollment and FY27 estimated counts. Following October 1, 2026, an audit adjustment will be made to align the FY27 pre-K allocation with actual enrollment reported in NEO. Please note that this adjustment may result in an increase or decrease in funding.

For more information about establishing or expanding a pre-K program, please visit the Maine DOE | Establishing a Program or contact Nicole Madore, Maine DOE Early Childhood Specialist, at nicole.madore@maine.gov. For questions specific to FY27 ED279 estimates, please contact Donna Tiner, Maine DOE School Finance Coordinator, at donna.tiner@maine.gov.

Maine DOE Launches Family Engagement Office Hour Series Starting October 30

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

SFEC grants provide financial support to organizations that offer technical assistance and training to state education agencies in the implementation and enhancement of systemic and effective family engagement policies, programs, and activities. Through Maine’s SFEC grant, the Consortium for Engaging Families Across Maine (CEFAM) was established. CEFAM is an online resource for educators, families, and students that includes family engagement assessment tools, information about parent advisory team opportunities, trainings to strengthen family engagement and partnership practices, and more.

The Maine DOE Office of School and Student Supports invites educators to join the first Family Engagement Office Hour for an overview of the SFEC grant, including what has been accomplished in the first three years of the grant, feedback received from more than 800 parents/caregivers in Maine, and resources available in the final two years of the SFEC grant. This content is applicable to administrators, teachers, and any school staff member seeking to strengthen relationships, partnerships, and engagement with families. The remaining two Family Engagement Office Hour sessions (at dates to be announced in the winter and early spring) will share information in response to requests by educators who attended the first Office Hour session, as well as updates and opportunities to continue supporting family engagement efforts.

Please register in advance for the October 30 Family Engagement Office Hour. Upon registering, you will receive a confirmation email with details about how to join the meeting. 

If you have questions or ideas about family engagement needs in your school administrative unit, please contact Maine DOE Director of the Office of School and Student Supports Julie Smyth at julie.a.smyth@maine.gov.

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

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

State surplus property includes used or unused items that are no longer needed by state agencies. Before being made available to the general public, these items are offered first to eligible donees, such as public schools, educational institutions, and nonprofit organizations. Federal surplus property is distributed through the U.S. General Services Administration (GSA) and can include larger or specialized items.

Items Currently Available

Maine Surplus’ current inventory includes several items that may be of particular interest to schools:

Gymnasium Equipment

Technology Equipment

  • Microsoft Surface and HP computers/tablets with Windows 10($125-$175)
  • Projectors ($25)

Furniture

  • Varidesks ($20-$50)
  • Filing cabinets, both small and large ($5-$30)
  • Tall tables ($30)

Other Assorted Items

  • Clipboards ($2)
  • Unused dishes and cups ($0.25)
  • Salt/sand spreader ($250)

Photos of many of these items are available in the attached PDF.

Maine Surplus also routinely offers a variety of other useful items for schools and educational programs, including:

  • Cell phones and tablets
  • Printers and office supplies
  • Desks, chairs, and bookshelves
  • Stationery and classroom materials
  • Tools and vehicles, including vans, passenger cars, and buses (occasionally available)

Federal surplus property may also include heavy equipment and other items that could be especially beneficial for vocational and technical programs.

How to Become a Donee and Acquire Surplus Property

  1. Apply: Complete the application found on the Maine Surplus Donee Guidance webpage and follow the submission instructions.
  2. Once approved:
    • Visit the Maine Surplus warehouse at 85 Leighton Road in Augusta (Monday-Friday from 8 a.m.-3:30 p.m.) to purchase furniture, technology, office supplies, and more.
    • Visit the auction yard on the third Thursday of each month to purchase vehicles or heavy/outdoor equipment.
    • Explore the Federal Surplus webpage for instructions on acquiring federal surplus property.

Need Assistance or Specific Items?

Schools looking for particular items are encouraged to provide Maine Surplus with a “want” list and will be contacted when matching items become available.

For more information, please contact Maine Surplus at 207-287-2923 or surplus@maine.gov, or check out the Maine Surplus website.

Maine DOE Highlights Resources and Opportunities for Dyslexia Awareness Month

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

In recognition of Dyslexia Awareness Month in October, the Maine DOE invites schools, families, and communities to explore resources designed to:

  • Build awareness and understanding of dyslexia and its characteristics.
  • Emphasize the importance of early screening, intervention, and appropriate support.
  • Guide effective instruction for striving readers, including students with dyslexia, across all grade levels and learning environments.

Together, we can increase knowledge, foster awareness, and ensure that every student receives the support they need to thrive as readers and learners.

Learn More About Dyslexia

The following organizations provide reliable, research-based materials regarding dyslexia to dispel myths, strengthen understanding, and highlight the importance of early identification and intervention:

Maine DOE Dyslexia Advisory Group

The Maine DOE’s Dyslexia Advisory Group meets four times per year and includes educators, administrators, parents, and advocates who work collaboratively to increase awareness and improve support for striving readers, including those with dyslexia.

The advisory group is currently accepting applications to expand membership and representation. Maine residents interested in serving are encouraged to complete this short application form by December 12, 2025.

For additional information, resources, or support in increasing dyslexia awareness in your school or district, please contact Danielle Saucier, Maine DOE Inclusive Education Literacy Specialist and Dyslexia Coordinator, at danielle.m.saucier@maine.gov.

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

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

Dave Gardner and Rick Harden, school bus drivers for Scarborough Public Schools, delivered meals every day last year to the public pre-K partnership classroom at the Shooting Stars Program. Over time, what began as a daily delivery turned into something far more meaningful: a joyful connection that bridged the classroom and the community.

“We might have a tough day, but the kids would never know it,” Gardner said. “We come in all smiles. It’s impossible not to when you see how happy [the children] are.”

The nickname “The Pizza Men” took shape after one Friday pizza delivery last year, and it stuck. Since then, the children have greeted the duo with excitement and giggles, hoping that the day’s lunch might include pizza.

Gardner, who has been driving a school bus for nine years, and Harden, who has been behind the wheel for seven, have made positivity their trademark.

“We go out of our way to greet every child,” Harden said. “We crack jokes. We make them laugh. It starts their day off right—and ours, too.”

Scarborough Bus Drivers loading students onto the bus
Scarborough Bus Drivers with students in the classroom


That genuine connection has not gone unnoticed. The class regularly shows their appreciation by creating holiday ornaments, Valentine’s Day candy bags, and colorful thank-you cards for Gardner and Harden.

“It’s those little things that remind you why this job matters,” Gardner said.

Last spring, the pair went above and beyond once again. They brought a full-size school bus to the Shooting Stars Program, so that the preschoolers could explore, learn about bus safety, and get comfortable with the sounds and excitement of the bus before starting kindergarten.

“The kids were thrilled,” a teacher shared. “It was even more exciting than when the fire department brought the fire truck!”

For Gardner and Harden, the visit wasn’t just for fun, either.

“We wanted to show them that the bus isn’t scary,” Gardner explained. “All of the children got to try things independently. That was a big moment for them and for us.”

 “To me, these kids are like my grandkids,” Harden added. “I want every interaction to be positive. If they trust us, they’ll speak up when something’s wrong—and that’s what keeps them safe.”

That sense of care shines through in every visit. One day during snack time, Gardner couldn’t resist joining the children at their tiny table.

“They were having snacks, so I sat down with them,” Gardner laughed. “The chairs were a little small for me, but the kids thought it was the funniest thing ever.”

Now, some of those same pre-K students ride Gardner and Harden’s buses as kindergarteners. They still wave, giggle, and shout, “Hey, Pizza Men!” when they see them.

As Maine celebrates National School Bus Safety Week, the staff at the Shooting Stars Program say it best: that Gardner and Harden aren’t just delivering meals—they’re delivering joy, confidence, and care to the next generation.

For more information, please contact Michelle Belanger, Maine DOE Pre-K Partnership Specialist, at Michelle.Belanger@maine.gov.

To submit a good news story to the Maine DOE, please fill out the good news submission form.

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

Pictured: MSSA President Andrew Dolloff (left) and 2025 Maine Assistant Superintendent of the Year Christine Frost-Bertinet (right) present RSU 34 Assistant Superintendent Jon Doty (center) with the MSSA 2026 Maine Assistant Superintendent of the Year Award. (Image courtesy of MSMA.)

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

Doty is recognized for his statewide leadership in curriculum development, educator workforce innovation, and his deep commitment to student opportunity and success.

With more than 25 years of service in Old Town-based RSU 34, Doty has played an integral role in developing programs that both strengthen student learning and build the future of Maine’s education profession. Over the past four years, as assistant superintendent—and previously as curriculum coordinator and coordinator of gifted and talented services—Doty has led initiatives that are making a lasting impact across the state.

Among his most notable achievements is the creation of RSU 34’s Educator Accelerator program, developed through partnerships with local colleges and universities. The program strategically addresses substitute teaching shortages by hiring pre-service educators and pairing them with mentor teachers, helping them gain valuable classroom experience while pursuing their degrees. Nearly 90 college students have participated in the program, and nine have gone on to become full-time educators in RSU 34.

Doty’s leadership has also extended beyond his own district. RSU 34 serves as a regional host site for Maine’s Teacher Apprenticeship Program, and Doty has been a vocal advocate for expanding certification pathways for career changers seeking to enter the education field.

In addition to his workforce efforts, Doty co-led RSU 34’s groundbreaking “STEM Staircase” initiative, which guarantees universal access to STEM education from kindergarten through 12th grade. The program provides students with hands-on opportunities to explore engineering, robotics, and design principles both in the classroom and through after-school programming, resulting in 100 percent participation at many grade levels.

“I’ve had the distinct pleasure of working alongside Jon for over two decades, from our start as teachers at Leonard Middle School in 2000 to serving together on the RSU 34 Leadership Team today,” said RSU 34 Superintendent Matthew Cyr. “Jon is truly exceptional—his passion for solving complex educational challenges, particularly in educator recruitment and certification, is matched only by his extraordinary communication skills and unwavering dedication to the profession.”

“Jon Doty is a shining example of the leading role that our school leaders are taking in improving education for Maine children,” said MSSA Executive Director Eileen King. “Jon is a problem-solver who keeps the best interest of kids at the center of every decision he makes.”

“Jon’s unwavering dedication to student success and innovative leadership has a lasting impact on education across the state,” added Maine Curriculum Leaders Association Executive Director Debra McIntyre. “This recognition is a testament to his vision, hard work, and commitment to mentoring others.”

“Talented and dedicated educators like Jon Doty make me confident in the present and future of Maine schools,” said Ezekiel Kimball, Dean of the University of Maine College of Education and Human Development. “Jon is the sort of educator that others aspire to emulate, and his work serves as an exemplary model for effective practice.”

Doty currently serves as President of the Maine Curriculum Leaders Association and was previously named the 2020 Maine Curriculum Leader of the Year.

He was presented with the 2026 Maine Assistant Superintendent of the Year award during the MSSA Annual Meeting on October 22 at the Augusta Civic Center.

Jon Doty - ASOY Speech

The Maine Department of Education extends heartfelt congratulations to Assistant Superintendent Doty on this well-deserved honor and thanks him for his continued leadership, innovation, and service to Maine students, educators, and communities.

Gorham Superintendent Heather Perry Named 2026 Maine Superintendent of the Year

Pictured: MSSA President Andrew Dolloff (left) and 2025 Maine Superintendent of the Year Howard Tuttle (right) present Gorham Superintendent Heather Perry (center) with the MSSA 2026 Maine Superintendent of the Year Award. (Image courtesy of MSMA.)

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

Perry is recognized for her visionary leadership, her work to expand student aspirations, and her innovative efforts to address the state’s education workforce challenges.

For the past decade, Perry has led the Gorham School District through transformative initiatives that have strengthened student success and postsecondary opportunities. Under her leadership, the district redesigned its alternative education programming and significantly increased student participation in internships, mentorships, and career and technical education (CTE). Through the district’s “Aspire Gorham” initiative, she has forged strong partnerships with local businesses and community leaders to help students explore career pathways beginning as early as kindergarten.

“Superintendent Perry’s unwavering dedication, visionary leadership, and tireless commitment to students, staff, and the Gorham community exemplify the very best in educational excellence,” said Gorham School Committee Chair Nicole Yeo-Fisher. “This well-deserved recognition celebrates her exceptional work and lasting impact on our schools.”

In addition to advancing student learning, Perry has been a state and national leader in tackling education workforce challenges. In 2022, she helped launch Maine’s first educator apprenticeship program in Gorham—a pioneering model that provides school staff with an opportunity to earn credentials and advance their careers through coursework and on-the-job training. The program’s success has inspired similar initiatives across dozens of districts statewide.

“Heather is a truly devoted leader—one who serves as a role model and respected colleague to countless other superintendents,” said MSSA Executive Director Eileen King. “Her leadership extends far beyond Maine. Through her service on AASA’s Executive Committee and her published work on leadership, she’s become a trusted voice for superintendents across the country.”

RSU 14 Superintendent and MSSA Action Committee Chair Chris Howell echoed that sentiment, noting that Perry’s collaborative work with Southern Maine Community College and the University of Southern Maine has directly benefited districts across the state.

“This recognition is a testament to Heather’s dedication to elevating the entire profession and strengthening our educational community,” Howell said.

Perry began her career as a teacher and principal in the Machias area before serving as superintendent in the Greenville School Department and RSU 3. She earned her Ph.D. in Public Policy from the University of Southern Maine in 2019 and continues to serve on the MSSA Executive Committee. She recently completed a term on the AASA (The School Superintendents Association) Executive Committee.

Perry was presented with the 2026 Maine Superintendent of the Year award during the MSSA Annual Meeting on October 22 at the Augusta Civic Center.

Heather Perry - SOY Speech 1


The Maine Department of Education extends heartfelt congratulations to Superintendent Perry on this well-deserved honor and thanks her for her continued leadership, innovation, and service to Maine students, educators, and communities.

Professional Learning Workshop: Integrating Literacy through Graphic Novels with Marek Bennett

The Maine Department of Education (DOE) Office of Teaching and Learning is excited to kick off the return of the Integrating Literacy series with a full-day deep dive into graphic novels as powerful tools for literacy growth.

From fantasy and humor to history and science, graphic novels are among students’ favorite reads. They’re more than entertainment, though; research shows that the format can strengthen vocabulary, comprehension, and visual literacy.

Join educator and graphic novel author Marek Bennett for an inspiring, hands-on workshop. We’ll explore exemplary texts, unpack the science behind their impact on readers, and create our own graphics.

Educators will leave with:

  • A clear understanding of the research supporting graphic novels for literacy development across grade levels and disciplines.
  • Practical ideas to build a schoolwide culture of reading through graphic storytelling.
  • Concrete strategies to engage students in creating and publishing their own work.

When: Friday, November 21, 2025, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Where: The Steel House in Rockland (639 Main Street, Rockland, ME 04841)

This free workshop is happening in-person and will be streamed via Zoom for those unable to travel. Bring a lunch or order locally—there are plenty of spots to picnic and connect with fellow educators!

Space is limited! Register today.

This event marks the first in a four-part literacy workshop series offered by the Maine DOE. Other workshops in the Integrating Literacy series include:

  • “Mapmaking: Coding and Decoding” with Osher Map Library on Friday, March 6, 2026, from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. in Portland
  • “Objects (Rocks, Minerals and Gems – Oh My!) and Writing Process” with the Maine Mineral and Gem Museum and Ronni Blaisdell on Friday, April 10, 2026, from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. in Bethel
  • “Engaging Reluctant Readers” with Cris Tovani on Friday, May 15, 2026, from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. in Augusta

To register for any of these workshops, use this registration form.

With questions, please contact Maine DOE Interdisciplinary Instruction Specialist Heather Martin at Heather.Martin@maine.gov.

Lewiston Public Schools Strengthens Student Stability through Preventing Student Homelessness Grant

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

Meeting Basic Needs through the Student Resource Center

At the heart of this work is Lewiston’s Student Resource Center (SRC), a welcoming space that provides students and families with the essentials needed to thrive. Stocked with food, clothing, hygiene products, toiletries, and school supplies purchased with Preventing Student Homelessness grant funds, the center ensures that no student goes without the basic necessities that make learning possible.

The center also offers laundry and shower facilities, complete with soaps, shampoos, and detergents—all free for families to use. Beyond immediate needs, the center connects students with housing agencies, case management, and mental health services, helping to prevent homelessness before it occurs and strengthening family stability.

a bunch of racks with clothes on hangers
A cozy looking room with places to sit and hang out, colorful.


Staying Connected All Year Long

Recognizing that needs don’t stop when the school year ends, Lewiston’s summer outreach team—made up of teachers, administrators, McKinney-Vento liaisons, and support staff—hosts weekly community events throughout the summer months. These events provide families with information about learning opportunities, distribute essential items, and maintain vital connections with students experiencing homelessness. Each event also includes free lunches, helping to reduce hunger while promoting engagement and connection.

Making an Impact

The impact of this coordinated effort is clear. During the 2024-2025 school year, Lewiston served 694 McKinney-Vento-eligible students, with 464 actively enrolled as of May 2025. Each student reached represents a step toward greater stability, attendance, and academic success.

Through the Preventing Student Homelessness grant, Lewiston has been able to reduce barriers to education, increase student engagement, and strengthen family connections across the district.

Community Partnerships Creating Change

Lewiston’s success is built on strong community partnerships that amplify the reach of the Preventing Student Homelessness grant:

  • MaineHousing: Since March of 2025, more than 93 students and families have received housing navigation services, with at least 51 students prevented from experiencing homelessness due to eviction.
  • Soles4Souls: Each spring and fall, 750 pairs of shoes are distributed to students—half of whom qualify under McKinney-Vento—ensuring every child can comfortably and confidently participate in school and extracurricular activities.

Continuing the Commitment

While challenges such as rising housing costs and limited access to mental health care persist, Lewiston Public Schools remains steadfast in its mission to support every student. The district continues to expand partnerships, connect families with essential resources, and build systems that promote stability and success.

Thanks to the Preventing Student Homelessness grant and the dedication of Lewiston’s educators and community partners, students are not only finding safety and stability—but also the confidence and opportunity to thrive.

This article was submitted by Lewiston Public Schools. To submit a good news story to the Maine DOE, please fill out the good news submission form.

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

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

  • FAME’s Federal Student Loan Help for Maine borrowers webpage provides a clear, step-by-step guide for borrowers to identify the status of their loans, understand repayment expectations, and take informed next steps. Knowing where your loan stands is critical to maintaining financial stability and avoiding repayment issues.

  • Through partnerships with national student loan experts, FAME is offering free federal student loan counseling for Maine borrowers. These one-on-one sessions provide personalized advice and help borrowers to navigate repayment challenges with confidence.

  • FAME is also hosting an informational workshop titled, “Managing YOUR Student Loan Debt Crisis – What’s at Stake When You Ignore Your Student Loans,” presented by nationally recognized expert Betsy Mayotte. This workshop will help participants to understand current developments in the student loan landscape and explore strategies for staying on top of repayment.

Failing to repay student loans can have serious financial consequences, including damage to credit scores, additional fees, loss of access to certain federal financial aid, and even withheld tax refunds or wage garnishment. FAME’s mission is to help Maine borrowers avoid these challenges by providing accurate information, expert advice, and accessible support—all at no cost.

To explore these free resources and take control of your student loan repayment, visit the FAME website.