Anne Behnke receives the 2026 Maine Volunteer of the Year award.
The Maine Department of Education (DOE) is pleased to join Volunteer Maine in celebrating the recipients of the 2026 Governor’s Awards for Service and Volunteerism, which, since 1987, have recognized the outstanding individuals, teams, and organizations making a meaningful impact through volunteer service.
On May 9, 2026, at Camp Chamberlain in Augusta, Major General Diane Dunn joined members of the Maine Commission for Community Service—including Maine DOE Associate Commissioner of Policy and Programs Chelsey Fortin-Trimble—in celebrating the 2026 recipients at an annual awards ceremony.
Members of the Maine Commission for Community Service
This year, the recipient of the Maine Volunteer of the Year award is Anne Behnke, a long-time Lewiston Public Schools (LPS) educator. For 40 years, Behnke has provided steady and compassionate hospice care through Andwell Health Partners. Contributing approximately 300 hours of service each year, Behnke has demonstrated a willingness to take on deeply challenging assignments, the ability to provide comfort in moments of profound vulnerability, guidance and mentorship for other volunteers, and positive energy. Behnke remains an active member of the LPS community.
You can read more about Behnke and the other recipients of the 2026 Governor’s Awards for Service and Volunteerism here.
Educators across Maine are invited to deepen their connection to the outdoors and discover new ways to bring forest-based learning into their teaching during an upcoming Forest-Based Education Workshop hosted by Project Learning Tree (PLT) and the Forest Ecology Research Network (FERN).
Taking place on June 23, 2026, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Holt Research Forest in Arrowsic, this hands-on workshop will introduce participants to engaging, field-based approaches that use forests as a teaching tool across a variety of subject areas.
PLT, an initiative of the Sustainable Forestry Initiative, is an award-winning environmental education program that provides standards-aligned curriculum designed to “teach students how to think, not what to think.” Through interactive activities and outdoor exploration, educators will learn how to integrate environmental literacy and critical thinking into their classrooms and programs.
Participants will also explore the work of FERN, an experiential, field-based program that combines place-based environmental education with standard forest data-collection protocols. FERN encourages community scientists of all ages to investigate the Maine woods, ask meaningful questions, and engage in authentic scientific inquiry.
Formal and non-formal educators are encouraged to attend. Participants will receive:
A $100 support stipend.
A copy of PLT’s “Explore Your Environment Activity Guide.”
Hands-on experience with forest-based teaching strategies and data collection activities.
Organizers have expressed they hope the workshop will help educators discover how outdoor learning can support student engagement, curiosity, and cross-curricular learning opportunities.
Educators who may face barriers related to substitute teacher costs are encouraged to reach out for additional support options by emailing logan@mainetree.org.
Students at Elm Street School in RSU 16 (Mechanic Falls) have spent the school year learning an important lesson about community, kindness, and helping others — all with the support of some four-legged friends.
Through a special partnership with local nonprofit organization Mission Working Dogs, these students welcomed therapy dogs into their classrooms every Thursday throughout the school year for activities that supported both student learning and the dogs’ training.
This partnership grew from an already strong relationship between the school and the nonprofit. It expanded this year when retired teacher and current dog handler Debbi Conley reached out to Elm Street School Principal Jessica Madsen about getting volunteers and dogs into classrooms.
Mission Working Dogs trains therapy and service dogs to support people with disabilities, veterans, and others who benefit from trained working dogs. These weekly visits at the school gave the dogs valuable exposure to children while also providing students with opportunities to build literacy skills, strengthen social-emotional connections, and learn more about helping others in their community.
During the Thursday sessions, students and dogs participated in a variety of activities, including reading practice, Jeopardy-style games, sharing of jokes, and plenty of time for play and affection.
“It’s something that our students always look forward to,” Jessica Harvey, a second-grade teacher and the 2021 Androscoggin County Teacher of the Year, said. “It helps with attendance on those days when we have therapy dogs coming. Those were our well-attended days for sure.”
Harvey said students especially enjoyed reading aloud to the dogs, which helped make practicing literacy skills feel exciting and meaningful.
“Students are working on their reading fluency, and they get to practice that a lot in the classroom. Being able to read to a dog is just kind of a really special thing,” Harvey said. “We have a whole group of animal lovers and nature lovers, so having animals come into the classroom is just another way for kids to connect with living things.”
Beyond literacy development, this partnership also helped students better understand how organizations support people in need.
“I also think that learning about organizations that help people — veterans, individuals with disabilities — is important. That’s primarily what their work is about,” Harvey explained of the nonprofit. “[Students] having that awareness that there are people in the world who benefit from this type of support is really nice.”
This partnership became even more meaningful through a classroom project focused on community helpers. As students learned about the role of citizens in the community during a recent social studies unit on civics and government, they brainstormed ways they could make a difference themselves through a “Change for Change” fundraising effort.
After voting on a project, students in Harvey and Sophia Stone’s second-grade classrooms chose to raise money for Mission Working Dogs as a way to thank the nonprofit for including them in the dogs’ training and building relationships with the students throughout the year.
Together, the second graders raised $500.03 by collecting donations from students and staff across the school — enough to purchase 11 large bags of dog food for Mission Working Dogs.
Staff at Mission Working Dogs shared that they go through approximately 167 cups of puppy kibble each day, making the donation incredibly meaningful for the nonprofit, which relies on donations and sponsorships to support its mission of providing trained service dogs to individuals living with disabilities.
During a recent school visit, students proudly presented the bags of dog food to dog handlers Lauren King and Moria Case — both former classroom teachers — along with three of the therapy dogs. Students also created handwritten thank-you notes expressing their appreciation for the visits and friendships formed throughout the year.
Students were eager to share what they loved most about the weekly visits.
“They are adorable,” one student said. “They help people, and they are fun to play with.”
Another student added, “They are cute. I like playing Jeopardy with them.”
Harvey said the experience has shown the value of strong community partnerships and the lasting impact they can have on students.
“I think it’s great to have a partnership like this, having someone from the community in our classrooms,” Harvey said. “I think those community partnerships are some of the most valuable things that we can give our kids.”
This story was written in collaboration with Elm Street School (RSU 16).To submit a good news story to the Maine DOE, please fill out the good news submission form.
Registration is now open for ElevatED 2026, a dynamic summer professional learning experience designed to inspire, connect, and support Maine’s education workforce through meaningful collaboration and practical learning opportunities.
Hosted through a partnership between the Maine Department of Education (DOE) and Educate Maine/the Teach Maine Center, ElevatED combines two familiar and impactful conferences into one engaging three-day event: the 2026 Maine DOE Annual Summit and the second annual Every Teacher a Leader Conference. ElevatED will take place from July 29-31, 2026, at Thomas College in Waterville, bringing together educators, school staff, instructional leaders, and education advocates from across the state for high-quality professional learning, networking, and inspiration.
Attendees may choose to register for one or both conference experiences. Those interested in attending are encouraged to register early as spots are limited and available only on a first-come, first-served basis.
Maine DOE Annual Summit
The Maine DOE Annual Summit on July 29, 2026, is tailored to Maine’s broad education workforce. It offers attendees the opportunity to engage in timely, relevant, and solution-focused sessions led by educators, experts in the field, and partners from across the state and beyond.
This year’s Summit keynote speaker is internationally recognized educator and neuroscientist Dr. Jared Cooney Horvath, who will present “From the Laboratory to the Classroom – Principles of Learning,” exploring the science of how students learn and what that means for classroom practice and school leadership. Dr. Horvath will also lead two in-depth follow-up sessions titled “Your Brain Your Life – Foundations of Thinking and Learning.”
The Summit agenda reflects the wide-ranging priorities and interests of Maine schools, offering sessions focused on instructional practice, school climate, student engagement, family partnerships, career pathways, inclusion, policy, wellness, and more.
Attendees can look forward to sessions including:
Reducing Bias-Motivated Harassment in School
Early Learning in Nature: A Standards-Aligned Outdoor Curriculum Framework
Belonging Matters: Retaining Diverse Educators Through Connection and Community
The Power of Storytelling: Sharing the Good News of Public Education
Connecting Youth to Community-Based Career Pathways
Using Forests as a Teaching Tool
Building Bridges: A Framework for Family Engagement in Maine
Cultivating Resilient Schools Through the Practice of Mattering
Introduction to School-Based Behavioral Threat Assessment and Management
Maine Seal of Climate Literacy
Inclusive by Design: Leveraging Universal Design for Learning (UDL) and Responsive Interactions to Support Inclusive Practices in Pre-K-2 Classrooms
What’s Changing in Essential Programs and Services (EPS) School Funding – and Why It Matters
In addition to sessions, attendees will also have access to informational tables, resources, and on-site support. Attendees will be able to connect with Maine DOE staff, including members of the Maine DOE Certification Team, who will be available to answer certification questions and provide guidance and support.
The Maine DOE Annual Summit registration cost is $120, which includes a light breakfast and lunch. Those interested in attending the Summit may register here.
The Maine DOE is pleased to share that registration costs for the Summit will be waived for eligible staff members working directly with students in schools identified as TSI (Targeted Support and Improvement), ATSI (Additional Targeted Support and Improvement), or CSI (Comprehensive Support and Improvement) under Maine’s Model of School Supports (MMSS). Eligible school administrative units (SAUs) may receive coverage for up to $1,200 in registration costs (the equivalent of 10 staff members).
To avoid upfront registration costs, eligible participants should:
Select “pay by invoice” during registration.
Enter the promotional code “MMSS.”
Provide the name of the identified school.
MMSS participants should not pay using procurement or credit cards. The Maine DOE will process invoices once attendance is confirmed.
Please note that schools identified for CSI support that receive School Improvement Grant (SIG) funding may also use those funds for travel and lodging expenses (in accordance with local SAU travel policies).
Every Teacher a Leader Conference
The Every Teacher a Leader Conference will take place July 30-31, 2026, and is designed specifically for classroom teachers, featuring teacher-led sessions that elevate educator voice, leadership, innovation, and collaboration.
The conference includes breakfast and lunch on both days, along with an optional educator dinner on July 30, 2026, from 6-8 p.m.
The cost to register is $120. Those interested in attending the conference may register here.
Lodging Information
ElevatED attendees are responsible for booking their own lodging accommodations, if they plan to stay overnight. There are options available on the Thomas College campus:
The mission of the Maine Storytime Finder is to connect families to free library programming, encouraging a positive culture of reading throughout Maine. The Finder allows users to search by location, age group, and date to find storytime opportunities at libraries across the state. At the time of the Finder’s launch, more than 50 libraries had already participated, with more than 100 recurring programs for babies and children of all ages. Additional libraries and events will be added on an ongoing basis.
Established in 2006, IRW is an educational nonprofit based in Southwest Harbor that brings book-based experiences—including author and illustrator visits—to its partner schools, offers professional development for educators, and hosts community programs.
This content was submitted by Island Readers & Writers (IRW). To submit a good news story to the Maine DOE, please fill out the good news submission form.
The Maine Department of Education (DOE) is seeking additional applicants to serve on the statewide Numeracy Advisory Council as part of Maine’s ongoing implementation of the Maine State Numeracy Action Plan.
The Numeracy Advisory Council was launched during the 2025-2026 school year to support the state’s renewed focus on strengthening math and numeracy instruction and improving student learning outcomes across Maine schools. The council is composed primarily of practitioners—including classroom educators, instructional coaches, school and school administrative unit (SAU) leaders, special educators, and higher education partners—who work directly with Maine learners and bring firsthand expertise to this work.
Due to some members needing to step away from the Numeracy Advisory Council, the Maine DOE is currently seeking additional educators to ensure broad statewide representation and continued practitioner voice in this important work.
The Maine DOE is specifically seeking applicants serving as special educators in grades 4 and above and classroom teachers serving grades kindergarten through grade 8 in the following counties:
Androscoggin
Aroostook
Hancock
Knox
Lincoln
Oxford
Piscataquis
Washington
The Numeracy Advisory Council is chaired by Victoria Cohen, former math teacher and current Maine State Board of Education member. Council members participate in regularly scheduled meetings, review resources and materials, provide feedback on statewide initiatives, and share perspectives from their local contexts.
Educators interested in applying can access the application here: Numeracy Advisory Council Membership Application. Applicants will be asked to describe their current role, interest in serving, and relevant experience.
Completed applications and letters of recommendation are due by June 26, 2026. Newly selected members will begin participation with the council in August 2026.
Questions about the Numeracy Advisory Council or application process may be directed to Maine DOE Chief Teaching and Learning Officer Beth Lambert at beth.lambert@maine.gov.
The Maine State Numeracy Action Plan is part of Maine’s broader effort to support evidence-based instruction, educator professional learning, and high-quality teaching and learning opportunities for all students across the public preschool-grade 12 continuum.
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.
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