Cultivating Belonging: 2026 Maine DOE Annual Summit to Highlight a New Chapter for Maine’s BIPOC Educator Network

When educators experience belonging, they are better equipped to create learning environments where students also experience belonging. That simple but powerful idea is guiding the next chapter of Maine’s Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) Educator Network—an independent, educator-led community that creates opportunities for Black, Indigenous, and other educators of color to connect, grow, and thrive together.

Supported through a collaboration between The Third Place (through its SHIFTMaine program) and the Maine Department of Education (DOE), the BIPOC Educator Network reflects a shared commitment to strengthening educator well-being, fostering authentic belonging, and building a more diverse and sustainable educator workforce across Maine.

As the Network enters this new chapter, Mae Applegate has joined as the BIPOC Educator Network Organizer. Through her relationship-centered approach to leadership, Applegate will cultivate spaces where educators can build meaningful connections, share experiences, and support one another while helping shape the future of the Network.

This collaborative vision will be introduced at the 2026 Maine DOE Annual Summit on July 29 at Thomas College, where Applegate and Ayesha Hall, Maine DOE Director of Strategic Partnerships, will co-facilitate a session called “Belonging Matters: Cultivating Community to Advance a Diverse Educator Workforce.” This interactive session will introduce participants to the concept of a Gathering Place—an intentionally designed space where educators experience connection, psychological safety, and authentic dialogue. Participants will experience facilitated protocols they can adapt within their own schools to cultivate belonging among colleagues and students. Ultimately, the learning is designed to help all participants strengthen the conditions that support educator well-being, retention, and student success.

This session is designed for school and school administrative unit (SAU) leaders, principals, assistant principals, instructional coaches, educator preparation program faculty, professional learning coordinators, and BIPOC educators who are committed to strengthening educator belonging and retention. Through a combination of guided reflection, affinity-based conversations, and collaborative learning, participants will explore how intentional relationships, inclusive leadership, and community-centered practices contribute to healthier school cultures where educators and students can thrive.

While the BIPOC Educator Network centers the experiences of Black, Indigenous, and other educators of color, this session reflects a broader belief that strengthening belonging for educators who have historically faced the greatest barriers ultimately strengthens school communities for everyone. By intentionally creating conditions where those educators can thrive, schools become stronger, more inclusive places for all educators and students.

The BIPOC Educator Network remains an independent affinity space where educators can connect, share experiences, access professional learning opportunities, and inform the future of educator support across Maine. The Maine DOE is honored to support this work through strategic partnerships that strengthen educators’ sense of belonging and advance a more inclusive, connected, and sustainable educator workforce.

Educators who identify as Black, Indigenous, or as people of color are invited to connect with the BIPOC Educator Network to learn more about upcoming gatherings, professional learning opportunities, and opportunities to engage with this growing community.

For more information about the BIPOC Educator Network or the Maine DOE’s educator workforce initiatives, please contact Ayesha Hall, Maine DOE Director of Strategic Partnerships, at Ayesha.Hall@maine.gov.

Schedule for the 2026-2027 Transformational Leaders’ Network Opportunity for Principals

The Transformational Leaders’ Network (TLN) is a practical, relationship-centered professional learning opportunity for principals to enhance their leadership practice and strengthen outcomes for schools and communities. The TLN occurs through a series of in-person and remote/regional meetings offered across the state during the school year. All principals, from the novice to the veteran, from large suburban schools to small rural schools, are invited to participate.

The 2026-2027 TLN theme is “The Principal Effect and the Power of Mattering.” This opportunity will reflect current research regarding principal effectiveness, professional learning, leadership sustainability, emotional intelligence, systems thinking, and school climate, while honoring the realities of increasingly complex school leadership.

Principals who participate can expect:

Continuous job-embedded professional development for an increasingly complex role.
A collaborative learning community, as participants tackle authentic leadership challenges together.
To learn about what emotional intelligence, mattering, and leadership presence look like in practice.
Strategies for strengthening school climate and culture by building trust, establishing stronger connections, communicating openly, and supporting and engaging staff more effectively.
To learn about creating steadier school environments during periods of challenge and change through sustainable and systems-oriented leadership.
To learn about navigating conflict, pressure, and complexity.
To learn about staff ownership, increasing collective efficacy, supporting leadership succession, and strengthening the workforce.

The 2026-2027 TLN schedule is as follows (specific locations to be determined):

Full-day, in-person meetings (8:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m.):
- September 18, 2026 – Lewiston
- October 23, 2026 – Bangor
- December 4, 2026 – Augusta
- January 22, 2027 – Brunswick
- April 30, 2027 – Bangor
Remote and/or regional meetings:
- Week of November 15, 2026
- Week of March 1, 2027
A virtual extension session will also be offered the week after each in-person meeting as an opportunity for a deeper dive into discussion topics or for those unable to attend the in-person session.

Former TLN participants have shared the following testimonials:

“It (TLN) really changed how I support teachers, how I build a more positive school culture.” – TLN Principal, 2024-2025

“It’s easier to stay and fight the daily battles, but leaving for this (TLN) makes me better when I come back.” – TLN Principal, 2025-2026

“I see it (TLN) as kind of a ‘boots on the ground’ experience that you don’t get until you’re in it. … It’s about recognizing the leader as a whole person, understanding that emotional well-being is a key component of strong leadership.” – TLN Principal, 2024-2025

“Every time I leave, I have something I can use right away.” – TLN Principal, 2025-2026

“We dream together about what education can be and walk out the door refreshed and ready to take on the next day.” – TLN Principal, 2023-2024

The cost of the TLN remains at $295 per participant for the full year of professional learning. This includes all TLN content, materials, and meals for in-person meetings. Participants will be responsible for covering their own travel. Please note that if you are the leader of an identified school under Maine’s Model of School Supports (MMSS) (TSI-Targeted School Improvement, ATSI-Additional Targeted School Improvement, CSI-Comprehensive School Improvement), you are eligible to have registration fees covered.

The Maine Department of Education (DOE) will share information about registration and further details in July.

With questions, please contact Christina O’Neal, Maine DOE Educator Excellence Coordinator, at christina.l.oneal@maine.gov.

ESEA Title IIA funds received from the U.S. Department of Education (ED) support the implementation of this project. The project has an award totaling $136,809.40, of which 80% is federally funded and directly attributed to project implementation. The contents are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily represent the official views of, nor an endorsement by, ED or the U.S. government.

Registration Now Open for EngageMEnt 2026-2027: Cultivating Innovative Teaching and Learning

The Maine Department of Education (DOE) Offices of Teaching and Learning and Innovation are pleased to announce that registration is now open for EngageMEnt 2026-2027, a statewide professional learning opportunity designed to support educators in exploring innovative, engaging, and impactful practices for teaching and learning.

Offered in partnership with the University of Maine and University of Southern Maine, EngageMEnt creates opportunities for educators from across the state to learn, collaborate, reflect, and apply new ideas in their classrooms, schools, and communities. The initiative also provides opportunities for practicing educators and pre-service educators to learn alongside one another while exploring current educational priorities and practices.

Building on the success of last year’s implementation and participant feedback, EngageMEnt 2026-2027 has been designed as a year-long learning experience that supports both professional growth and implementation. Rather than attending a single workshop, participants will join a cohort of educators who will continue learning together throughout the school year. The Maine DOE is hopeful that this model will support meaningful changes in practice that ultimately benefit Maine students.

What’s New for 2026-2027?

This year’s model includes:

An in-person fall session on October 9, 2026
A virtual winter follow-up experience
An in-person spring session on March 19, 2027

On both the fall and spring dates:

Morning cohorts meet from 9-11:30 a.m.
Afternoon cohorts meet from 12:30-3 p.m.

This structure is designed to provide educators with opportunities to learn, implement new ideas in practice, reflect on their experiences, and reconnect with colleagues to deepen their learning.

Explore a Wide Range of Learning Opportunities

This year’s cohort offerings include topics such as:

Early literacy and numeracy
Literacy and numeracy across content areas
Outdoor and place-based learning
Climate education
Technology and learning
Multilingual learner supports
Community partnerships
Civic engagement and student advocacy
Arts integration and creative learning
Wabanaki Studies

Participants may register for one cohort or, if desired, one morning cohort and one afternoon cohort.

Cohorts will begin at either the the University of Maine at Orono or University of Southern Maine in October and continue at the partner campus in March, providing opportunities for educators to connect with colleagues from across the state while experiencing both university settings.

A complete guide to cohort offerings, facilitator information, and session descriptions is below.

Registration Information

Registration for EngageMEnt 2026-2027 is now open.

Participants registering for two cohorts should select one morning cohort and one afternoon cohort. Participants are encouraged to review the cohort descriptions carefully before registering.

Register here.

Questions regarding EngageMEnt 2026-2027 may be directed to Beth Lambert, Maine DOE Chief Teaching and Learning Officer, at Beth.Lambert@maine.gov.

The following cohorts begin at the University of Southern Maine on October 9, 2026, and will continue at the University of Maine at Orono on March 19, 2027:

Morning Cohorts (9-11:30 a.m.):

Cohort	Facilitator(s)	Description
Playful Literacy Strategies for Early Learning, Preschool-Grade 2	Maine DOE Early Learning Team	Explore literacy-rich, play-based practices that support joyful and purposeful learning in early childhood settings.
Applied Learning Lab	Cee Belolan, Maine DOE Interdisciplinary Instruction Specialist	Experience practical approaches to designing engaging, student-centered learning through active application and reflection.
Numeracy Opportunities Within and Across Content Areas	Michele Mailhot, Maine DOE Interdisciplinary Instruction Specialist	Learn how to identify and intentionally incorporate numeracy opportunities across disciplines using Maine’s Numeracy Playbook resources.
Inquiry, Advocacy, Authentic Learning: Leading Students from Apathy to Activism	Geoff Wingard, Maine DOE Interdisciplinary Instruction Specialist	Support student voice, inquiry, and civic engagement through meaningful and authentic learning experiences.

Afternoon Cohorts (12:30-3 p.m.):

Cohort	Facilitator(s)	Description
The Importance of Numeracy Foundations, Preschool-Grade 2	Maine DOE Early Learning Team	Explore foundational numeracy development, learning trajectories, and play-based strategies that support mathematical thinking in young learners.
From Data to Art: Visualizing, Performing, and Creating with Information	Cee Belolan, Maine DOE Interdisciplinary Instruction Specialist	Learn creative ways to help students communicate information through the visual and performing arts.
Diving into Indigenous Literature with Book Kits	Brianne Lolar, Maine DOE Wabanaki Studies Specialist	Explore Indigenous literature resources and instructional strategies that deepen engagement and understanding.
Beyond the Classroom: Community Partnerships that Enrich Student Learning	Ayesha Hall, Maine DOE Director of Strategic Partnerships	Explore strategies to build community partnerships that enhance student learning and foster authentic connections.

The following cohorts begin at the University of Maine at Orono on October 9, 2026, and continue at the University of Southern Maine on March 19, 2027:

Morning Cohorts (9-11:30 a.m.):

Cohort	Facilitator(s)	Description
Digging Deep into Literacy	Erik Wade, Maine DOE Interdisciplinary Instruction Specialist	Explore how outdoor and authentic learning experiences can strengthen literacy development and interdisciplinary connections.
From Standards to Solutions: Engaging Students in Climate Action Through Maine’s Learning Results	Glenn Cummings, Maine DOE Director of Green Schools, and Teddy Lyman, Maine DOE Climate Education Specialist	Connect climate education, civic engagement, and standards-based learning through authentic student action.
Wonder Is a Literacy Practice	Heather Martin, Maine DOE Interdisciplinary Instruction Specialist, and Kathy Bertini, Coordinator of the Maine DOE Interdisciplinary Instruction Team	Discover literacy strategies that foster curiosity, inquiry, discussion, and meaningful student engagement.
Less Noise, More Learning: Reframing Technology Use in Schools	Maine DOE Learning Through Technology Team	Examine thoughtful approaches to technology use that support student learning, engagement, and well-being.

Afternoon Cohorts (12:30-3 p.m.):

Cohort	Facilitator(s)	Description
Digging Deep into Numeracy	Erik Wade, Maine DOE Interdisciplinary Instruction Specialist	Experience hands-on approaches to numeracy through outdoor learning, observation, measurement, and authentic problem-solving.
Trail Guides: Helping Create a Cultural Shift to Place-Based Learning	Sharon Gallant, Maine DOE RREV coach; Elaine Bartley, Maine DOE Innovative Research and Design Director; and Teddy Lyman, Maine DOE Climate Education Specialist	Explore strategies for integrating place-based and outdoor learning into everyday instructional practice.
Got Skills? Literacy in Every Direction	Heather Martin, Maine DOE Interdisciplinary Instruction Specialist, and Kathy Bertini, Coordinator of the Maine DOE Interdisciplinary Instruction Team	Explore practical literacy strategies that can be applied across content areas and learning environments.
Cultivating Brilliance: Maximizing Multilingual Assets and Accelerating Literacy Outcomes in an Integrated MTSS Framework	Jane Armstrong, ESOL State Specialist, and Bryan Lescord, MTSS State Specialist	Learn asset-based approaches that support multilingual learners within an integrated MTSS framework.

Free Emergent Literacy Facilitator Training for Early Childhood Educators

The Maine Department of Education (DOE) is offering a free professional learning opportunity for educators interested in becoming trained facilitators of professional learning communities (PLCs) focused on emergent literacy for children aged 3 to 6.

The Professional Learning Community: Emergent Literacy from the Institute of Education Sciences supports preschool and kindergarten educators in implementing evidence-based language and literacy practices. Designed to foster collaboration, the four included modules engage participants in discussion, hands-on learning, and reflective practice with support from peers and trained facilitators.

The modules in this PLC are Print Knowledge, Phonological Awareness, Vocabulary, and Oral Language. Each module consists of three sessions (12 sessions total), with flexible scheduling options. Facilitators will receive a complete set of implementation materials, including participant guides, facilitator guides, PowerPoint presentations, and supporting videos. Facilitator training will familiarize participants with the design of the modules and effective strategies for facilitating adult learning.

Once trained, facilitators will be expected to facilitate at least one PLC module with a cohort of at least six Maine educators. They will be compensated $500 for each module they facilitate and complete by November 27, 2026. If facilitators wish to facilitate more than one module for compensation, they must seek prior approval.

The ideal facilitator is an educator with a strong understanding of emergent literacy, effective communication skills, and the ability to relate well to adult learners. Prior experience facilitating professional learning or leading groups of educators will be useful to the facilitator’s success.

To apply, please complete this application by July 17, 2026. Applications will be reviewed by a selection team, and applicants will be notified of their selection status by July 24, 2026.

For additional information, please contact Renee Reilly, Maine DOE PDG Manager, at Renee.A.Reilly@maine.gov.

This professional learning opportunity is sponsored by Maine’s Preschool Development Grant (PDG) Birth through Five (B-5) initiative, a collaboration between the Maine DOE and the Maine Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS).

Funding provided through the U.S. Department of Education (ED) supports implementation of this project. The project award totals $30,000, all of which is federally funded and directly attributed to project implementation. The contents of this announcement are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily represent the official views of, nor an endorsement by, ED or the U.S. government.

Registration Open for July Holocaust Education Seminar for Maine Educators

The Maine Department of Education (DOE) is sharing a summer professional learning opportunity for educators interested in strengthening Holocaust and human rights education in the classroom.

This two-day seminar, hosted by the Holocaust and Human Rights Center of Maine in collaboration with the national nonprofit Echoes and Reflections, will take place on Wednesday, July 15, and Thursday, July 16, 2026, from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Michael Klahr Center on the University of Maine at Augusta campus.

Designed for educators, administrators, school staff, and pre-service teachers, the seminar will explore not only the events of the Holocaust but also the broader historical, political, and social conditions that allowed it to occur. Sessions will provide participants with information, resources, and classroom-ready activities that can be integrated into history and social studies instruction, while also connecting to government, civics, and literature courses.

“When I first began teaching the Holocaust at Vinalhaven High School, I found that there are a lot of resources out there. Echoes and Reflections was the one I gravitated toward, as they provide a pretty comprehensive curriculum that can cover a year-long class. In addition, Echoes and Reflections offers a lot of fantastic professional development—all at no cost,” Kristina Osgood, Vinalhaven High School English Teacher and Yearbook Advisor, said.

Participants who complete the full seminar are eligible to receive 12 continuing education credits. Organizers ask that participants register only if they can attend the seminar in its entirety.

Educators interested in attending are encouraged to register soon, as space may be limited. For more information, open this flyer. To register, access the registration form.

Registration Open for ‘MCSTOYA Connects: Neurodivergent Reads 2026’ Summer Learning Experience

The Maine County and State Teachers of the Year Association (MCSTOYA), in partnership with the Maine Council for English Language Arts (MCELA), is inviting educators from across Maine to participate in MCSTOYA Connects: Neurodivergent Reads 2026, a summer professional learning experience focused on neurodiversity, inclusive practices, and the power of literature to foster understanding, empathy, and connection.

Open to educators, librarians, counselors, specialists, administrators, and preservice teachers, the program offers participants a flexible and engaging way to learn alongside colleagues while exploring books and resources that support neurodivergent students.

This experience is designed to provide both choice and community through two connected opportunities: a self-paced summer book club and an in-person gathering that brings participants together to deepen their learning and share ideas.

Flexible Summer Book Club

Participants can choose from a curated collection of books featuring neurodivergent characters, experiences, and perspectives. Readers may engage with one title or several throughout the summer, either independently or collaboratively with colleagues.

The 2026 reading list includes selections for:

Picture-book readers
Middle-grade readers
Young-adult readers

Featured titles explore themes and experiences connected to autism, ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder), OCD (Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder), anxiety, bipolar disorder, sensory processing differences, and broader neurodivergent identities.

Organizers also encourage participants to support local libraries and independent bookstores when selecting books for the program.

In-Person Learning and Connection

The summer experience culminates with an in-person gathering on August 12, 2026, from 9:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Colby College in Waterville.

The event will feature:

Book discussions
Featured speakers
Professional learning workshops
Classroom application strategies
Opportunities to connect with educators from across Maine

Participants will also receive contact hours, practical resources to bring back to their schools, and a free book for their classroom library.

The event will also include presentations from:

Stephanie Vansoest, speech-language pathologist and neurodiversity-affirming advocate
Kim Leo, Clinical Director of Mental Health Services at Brett DiNovi & Associates North

Together, Vansoest and Leo will explore ways educators can better support neurodivergent students through literacy, inclusive practices, relationship-centered learning, and increased understanding of diverse learner needs.

Educators interested in participating in the event can register here.

With questions about this program, please contact mainestoya@gmail.com.

Registration Open for ElevatED 2026: Maine DOE Annual Summit and Every Teacher a Leader Conference

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
Evidence-Based Practices Promoting Increased Attendance
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:

Learn more and book Thomas College lodging accommodations here.

Annual Mentor Trainings: Supporting New Educators with Research-Based Best Practices

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:

Tuesday, August 4, 2026 – York County Community College in Wells
Wednesday, August 12, 2026 — Eastern Maine Community College in Bangor
Thursday, August 20, 2026 – Bates College in Lewiston
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.

Registration Open for New School Nurse Orientation in August

On August 12, 2026, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., the Maine Department of Education (DOE) Coordinated School Health Team will host its annual New School Nurse Orientation in Augusta.

If you have hired or plan to hire a new nurse for your school over the summer, please be sure to include the New School Nurse Orientation in their new hire work plan. This daylong event is a specialized program designed to help nurses transition into the unique specialty of school nursing.

The New School Nurse Orientation will be followed up with continued learning opportunities, connections, and support facilitated by the Maine DOE Coordinated School Health Team, which includes school nurse regional liaisons.

When: August 12, 2026, from 9 a.m.-4 p.m.
Where: Rooms A&B at the Maine Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) building, 109 Capitol Street, Augusta, ME 04333
Cost: $25
Registration: For more information, and to see the agenda and register, please visit theevent website. Attendees must register in advance.

The Coordinated School Health Team is part of the Maine DOE Office of School and Student Supports. For further information or with questions, please contact DOESchoolandStudentSupports@Maine.gov.

Rural THRIVE Foundations Program Supports Maine’s Early-Career Educators

As schools across Maine continue to welcome and support new educators, the Rural THRIVE Foundations program is helping early-career teachers to build confidence, strengthen instructional practice, and establish meaningful professional connections during their first years in the classroom.

Rural Thrive is a project of the University of Maine College of Education and Human Development. It is funded with $3.3 million in Congressionally Directed Spending awarded to the University of Maine System to provide ongoing professional development, mentorship and other evidence-based support, with the goal of leading to better resilience and retention among rural educators and school leaders, as well as improving PK-12 student outcomes.

This year, nearly 30 early-career educators from across the state participated in Foundations programming. Participants consistently reported valuing the opportunity to receive dedicated support from experienced educators outside of their immediate supervisory context, connect with peers across districts, and build professional relationships that helped them feel more supported as they transitioned into teaching.

The Foundations “Guided Trail” pairs new teachers with experienced educators from across Maine for weekly virtual mentorship meetings, reflective classroom observation, and monthly Communities of Practice focused on practical strategies and professional growth. Participants also attend a small number of in-person gatherings, including a statewide Spring Retreat.

The program is designed to complement—not replace—district mentoring and induction supports by providing additional professional connections and dedicated reflective support outside of an evaluative context.

Rural THRIVE Foundations is a mostly virtual opportunity, making participation accessible for educators across Maine’s rural and geographically diverse communities. Participants who complete program expectations may receive up to $1,000.

The program is open to educators beginning their teaching careers in Maine public schools and aims to help new teachers feel supported, connected, and prepared for long-term success in the profession.

Additional information about Rural THRIVE Foundations is available here. Questions may be directed to Laura Bean at laura.bean@maine.edu.