From the Maine Department of Education

Blue Ribbon Commission To Meet Monday, October 17

Augusta – The next meeting of the Commission to Reform Public Education Funding and Improve Student Performance in Maine will be held on Monday, Oct. 17 at 9:00 a.m. at the Lewiston Regional Technical Center. The Lewiston Regional Technical Center is located at 156 East Avenue in Lewiston. A copy of the meeting agenda and documents relating to the Commission’s work will be posted here as they are made available.

Additionally, members of the public who wish to submit comments or ideas about public education issues for consideration by the Commission may do so here. Comments submitted through the website will be distributed to members of the Commission.

The Commission to Reform Public Education Funding and Improve Student Performance in Maine was created by LD 1641 which allocated an additional $15 million in education funding for local schools. Based on the Commission’s work, a report to the Governor and the Legislature will be submitted by Jan. 10, 2017 that includes findings and recommendations for action to reform public education funding and improve student performance in the state.

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Notices and Reporting Items

• Local Entitlement Report of Final Expenditures for FY15, due Oct. 30
• Local Entitlement Year End Report for FY16, due Oct. 30
• Private School Oct 1 Enrollment Reporting (EF-M-13), due Oct. 31
• Report of Services to Students with Disabilities Part I (EF-S-05), due Oct. 31
• EPS October 1 Enrollment Reporting, due Oct. 31
• Report of Services to Students with Disabilities Part II (EF-S-05), due Oct. 31
• Staff Data Reporting 2016-17, due Oct. 31
• Graduation Reporting, due Oct. 31

More Notices | Administrative Letters | Reporting Calendar

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News & Views

Maine DOE opens window for SAUs to complete 2016 progress report on proficiency-based diploma implementation

Public school superintendents and public charter school directors received a live link this week to the 2016 Progress Report: Implementing Proficiency-Based Learning and Proficiency-based Diplomas. | More

Students, Parents, and Schools Celebrate School Bus Driver Appreciation Week Oct. 17-21

A school bus driver’s career is about safely delivering the world’s most precious cargo – our students. | More

Invitation to participate in NECAP science inquiry task field test

The Maine Department of Education has agreed to recruit schools to serve as field testing sites to administer Measured Progress’ NECAP Science Inquiry Tasks in grades 5, 8, and 11. | More

Water conservation resources

As many areas of Maine continue to experience drought conditions, teachers may find this resource from the Maine Emergency Management Agency helpful for discussing water conservation. | More

More Dispatches | Press Releases | Priority Notices

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LATEST DOE Career/Project Opportunities

• Education Specialist I – Child Nutrition
• Education Specialist III – Adult Education Coordinator – Special Projects – Part-Time Job Share (20 hours)
• Education Specialist III – Director, Special Education
• View current Child Development Services employment opportunities here

From the Maine Department of Education

Three Maine schools named National Blue Ribbon Schools by United States Department of Education

Falmouth Middle School, Reeds Brook Middle School in Hampden, and Sea Road School in Kennebunk were among the 329 public and private schools across the country this week named 2016 National Blue Ribbon Schools by U.S. Department of Education Secretary John King.

All three Maine schools were honored as “Exemplary High Performing Schools.”

“To be named a National Blue Ribbon School, schools must meet strict criteria, and these three Maine schools deserve great credit for their dedication to the mission of educating our children. I commend the educators, parents, and students who all work to make these schools such proud examples of excellence in the state of Maine,” said Deputy Commissioner of Education William Beardsley.

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Notices and Reporting Items

• EFM-43 Report Transportation Data for Out-of-District Special Education Students, Homeless Students, and CTE Students, due Oct. 15 (Reminder)
• EF-M-240 Year End Report of Private Schools for Public Tuition Approval, due Oct. 15 (Reminder)
• Local Entitlement Report of Final Expenditures for FY15, due Oct. 30
• Local Entitlement Year End Report for FY16, due Oct. 30
• Report of Services to Students with Disabilities Part I (EF-S-05), due Oct. 31
• EPS October 1 Enrollment Reporting, due Oct. 31
• Report of Services to Students with Disabilities Part II (EF-S-05), due Oct. 31
• Staff Data Reporting 2016-17, due Oct. 31
• Graduation Reporting, due Oct. 31

More Notices | Administrative Letters | Reporting Calendar

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News & Views

Maine Department of Education announces the 2016 Presidential Awards for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching State Finalists

Maine DOE is honored to announce the four state finalists for the 2016 Presidential Award for Excellence in Teaching Mathematics and Science (PAEMST). | More

Maine DOE accepting School Improvement Grant applications through December 14

The Maine Department of Education will once again be accepting applications for School Improvement Grant (SIG) funding during the 2016-17 school year. | More

Maine DOE offers 2017 performance evaluation and professional growth mini-booster grants to SAUs

In an effort to continue assisting school administrative units (SAUs) in their performance evaluation and professional growth (PEPG) development the Maine DOE is offering mini-booster grants of $1,500. | More

A message for superintendents in partnership with Head Start, child care and private preschool programs

To date, there has been some confusion around public preschool teachers with Conditional 081 Early Childhood Teacher Certification who have been hired and are employed by a partnering program. | More

U.S. Senate Youth Program Application Deadline is Oct. 17

The United States Senate Youth Program (USSYP), established in 1962, is a unique educational experience for outstanding high school students. | More

Secretary of State hosting ‘Voter Reg Rumble’ competition to encourage youth registration

This general election season, Maine’s Secretary of State is hosting a voter registration competition encouraging students to get involved in the electoral process. | More

Election resources available on Maine Department of Education website

The Maine Department of Education has a webpage devoted to resources that may be helpful in teaching about the Presidential election and the election process. | More

Input sought for teacher shortage areas

The Maine DOE has been notified of the requirement to submit Maine teacher shortage areas by December 9 for designation by the U.S. Department of Education for the 2017-18 school year. | More

NEO Transportation Upgrade and EFT-24 Vehicle Mileage and Operations Report due date extension

The due date for the year-end EFT-24 Vehicle Mileage and Operations Report has been extended to December 31. | More

Statements of Assurance and MEFS (Maine Educational Financial System) Financial Reconciliations (formerly MEDMS) due Nov. 1

Statements of assurance and MEFS (Maine Educational Financial System) Financial reconciliations, as required by Title 20-A MRSA 6051 §4, are due by November 1. | More

State agency client students in crisis placements

The Maine DOE previously (1/22/14) issued guidance with respect to students in crisis placements. That guidance applies as well to students who are hospitalized as a result of a mental health crisis. | More

Reminder: National Board Certified Teacher Salary Supplement due Oct. 15

Superintendents of a school administrative unit or the director of a publicly-supported secondary school or CTE region must submit to the Maine DOE by Oct. 15. | More

Professional development opportunity for education technicians working with students with challenging behaviors

Please note the original location of the Oct. 25 training has changed and will now be held in Brewer. As of Oct. 5, the Oct. 24 session remains open; all slots have been filled for Oct. 25. | More

More Dispatches | Press Releases | Priority Notices

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LATEST DOE Career/Project Opportunities

• Education Specialist I – Child Nutrition
• Education Specialist III – Adult Education Coordinator – Special Projects – Part-Time Job Share (20 hours)
• Education Specialist III – Director, Special Education
• Request for Proposals: HIV Prevention Education
• View current Child Development Services employment opportunities here

From the Maine Department of Education

Maine school districts begin school year with new teacher and principal evaluation systems

AUGUSTA – As the 2016-17 school year gets underway, Maine schools are undertaking newly revised teacher and principal evaluation systems. This year, for the first time, the majority of teachers and principals will be evaluated based on a professional practice model using a system that incorporates a student growth measure for educators.

This major shift is the result of legislative changes adopted in the 125th Legislature and reflected in the Maine Department of Education’s Rule Chapter 180. Districts across the state have been working for years with stakeholders through development and steering committees to determine the details of each district’s evaluation plan for teachers and principals.

The Maine Department of Education plans to share all teacher and principal evaluation plans from every district on a dashboard available to the public through the Educator Effectiveness webpage in order to give a detailed, comprehensive look at each district’s approach. In doing so, the goal is a continual learning, development, and adjustment process for districts to improve the quality of each plan.

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Notices and Reporting Items

• Vehicle Inventory Form – Student Transportation (EFT-24), due Oct. 15 (Reminder)
• EFM-43 Report Transportation Data for Out-of-District Special Education Students, Homeless Students, and CTE Students, due Oct. 15 (Reminder)
• EF-M-240 Year End Report of Private Schools for Public Tuition Approval, due Oct. 15 (Reminder)

More Notices | Administrative Letters | Reporting Calendar

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News & Views

Message from Adult Education Director on Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act

With the passage and implementation of the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA), there has been some discussion about the act’s potential effect on the basic skills instruction provided by adult education. | More

Public invited to submit comment to Blue Ribbon Commission online

Members of the public who wish to submit comments or ideas about public education issues for consideration by the Commission to Reform Public Education Funding and Improve Student Performance in Maine may do so here. | More

Addition made to MUSER FAQs on diagnostic placements

The Maine DOE has made an addition to the Maine Unified Special Education Regulations frequently asked questions. | More

Information regarding homeschool program correspondence

If you have questions about Maine’s homeschool program that cannot be answered by the information on the Maine Department of Education’s website, please direct your query to the Commissioner’s office. | More

Seventh annual PBIS conference to be held November 4

This year’s topic for the seventh annual PBIS conference, hosted by USM, is “Building and Sustaining Multi-Tiered Systems of Behavioral Support.” | More

Reminder of deadline for gifted and talented program approval for FY 2017

The annual gifted and talented program and budget approval is due by September 30. | More

Professional development for public preschool and visual arts teachers

The Maine Department of Education invites you to be part of a new professional development opportunity, “Fostering Artful Early Childhood Classrooms.” | More

Maine identifies the 1% alternate assessment population

Many districts have identified their students participating in alternate assessments in Infinite Campus State Edition, ahead of the October 6 deadline. | More

Poetry Out Loud registration open

Maine high schools are invited to register for Poetry Out Loud, a nationwide program that encourages youth to learn about poetry through memorization and recitation. | More

Over 900 Maine students complete Read to Ride Summer Reading Challenge

Preventing summer reading slide is a goal of many Maine educators, as students can lose months of learning gains if their brains do not remain active. | More

Maine schools join others around the nation to recognize National School Bus Safety Week October 17-21

National School Bus Safety Week, scheduled October 17-21 this year, is a public education program that promotes school bus safety. | More

National Attendance Awareness Month: start now and keep celebrating school attendance all year long

An overwhelmingly majority (86 percent) of parents want their kids to achieve in school, but almost half don’t realize the impact of too many absences on their child’s education. | More

More Dispatches | Press Releases | Priority Notices

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LATEST DOE Career/Project Opportunities

• Education Specialist III – Adult Education Coordinator – Special Projects – Part-Time Job Share (20 hours)
• Education Specialist III – Director, Special Education
• Management Analyst II – Specialist Services Division
• Request for Proposals: HIV Prevention Education
• View current Child Development Services employment opportunities here

From the Maine Department of Education

New Major Capital School Construction Application Cycle Announced

AUGUSTA – Public schools across Maine are invited to participate in the new application cycle for major school construction projects that will begin in October. The announcement that a new application cycle will begin was made at the monthly meeting of the State Board of Education on September 14. A new application cycle enables Maine public schools to apply for state support in order to undertake a major renovation or addition project, or to build a new facility.

The application will be similar to those used in the past. Applications will be posted on the Maine Department of Education’s website by October 15, 2016. An announcement will be made to alert school officials when the applications are posted.

“In consultation with the State Board of Education, the Department has determined that for the first time in six years, the time is right to open a new application cycle. The application, review, and approval process will remain consistent with the past process,” said Deputy Commissioner Bill Beardsley in announcing the new application cycle.

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Notices and Reporting Items

• School Bus Purchase Report (EF-T-20: Quarter 1), due Sept. 30 (Reminder)
• School Revolving Renovation Fund Application, due Sept. 30 (Reminder)
• Gifted & Talented Annual Program Approval, due Sept. 30 (Reminder)
• Vehicle Inventory Form – Student Transportation (EFT-24), due Oct. 15
• EFM-43 Report Transportation Data for Out-of-District Special Education Students, Homeless Students, and CTE Students, due Oct. 15
• EF-M-240 Year End Report of Private Schools for Public Tuition Approval, due Oct. 15

More Notices | Administrative Letters | Reporting Calendar

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News & Views

Reminder: Certification on Constitutionally Protected Prayer

Maine DOE is reminding school administrative units to complete and submit the Certification on Constitutionally Protected Prayer statement to the Department by Oct. 1. | More

Maine DOE announces alternate assessment workshops

The Maine DOE is sponsoring a series of four workshops for the MEA Alternate Mathematics and ELA/Literacy (MSAA) and the MEA Alternate Science (PAAP) assessments. | More

Maine DOE ACCUPLACER® units discontinued

As of July, Maine DOE discontinued access to ACCUPLACER® for students as part of the State’s testing program. | More

Professional development opportunity for education technicians working with students with challenging behaviors

The Maine DOE’s Special Services division will provide a free, professional development opportunity for education technicians working within special education. | More

Notice regarding upcoming special education reports EF-S-05 Part I and II

EF-S-05 Part I, Special Education Child Count: School administrative units are advised to verify the “Special Education Students for Federal Count” report in Infinite Campus State Edition (ICSE). | More

Addition made to MUSER FAQs on diagnostic placements

The Maine DOE has made an addition to the Maine Unified Special Education Regulationsfrequently asked questions. | More

UMaine 4-H offering new “ Follow a Researcher” opportunity for classrooms

The University of Maine is once again gearing up for a Follow a ResearcherTM expedition!  Follow a ResearcherTM is an innovative University of Maine 4-H program that connects youth with a graduate student. | More

FAFSA available October 1

Students and families can now apply for financial aid starting on October 1 as the college application process gets underway. | More

Updated College Scorecard available online for researching higher education institutions

The U.S. Department of Education recently released its first annual update of the redesigned College Scorecard available at CollegeScorecard.ed.gov. | More

More Dispatches | Press Releases | Priority Notices

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LATEST DOE Career/Project Opportunities

• Management Analyst II – Specialist Services Division
• Request for Proposals: HIV Prevention Education
• View current Child Development Services employment opportunities here

From the Maine Department of Education

2016 fall assessment workshops – MAARS & SAT reporting systems

Training for the Maine Assessment and Accountability Reporting System (MAARS – replacing iServices) and redesigned SAT are now scheduled and will be held in various locations (Portland, Waterville, Bangor, Lewiston, Presque Isle) during the week of October 31.

The morning sessions will be hosted by Maine DOE and FocalPointK12, and focus on all of Maine’s State assessments in the new reporting portal. The afternoon sessions will be hosted by the College Board and provide an overview of the SAT suite of assessments.

MAARS morning session – Who should register?

• District Assessment Coordinator (DAC)
• Data/IT personnel or other administrator who will be accessing assessment data
• **Restricted to two representatives per district

SAT afternoon session – Who should register?

• Curriculum Coordinators/Instructional Leaders, Directors of Guidance, and/or Data Professionals
• Recommended audience of two representatives per district

Please see attached flyer for registration information.

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Notices and Reporting Items

• School Bus Purchase Report (EF-T-20: Quarter 1), due Sept. 30 (Reminder)
• School Revolving Renovation Fund Application, due Sept. 30 (Reminder)
• Gifted & Talented Annual Program Approval, due Sept. 30 (Reminder)

More Notices | Administrative Letters | Reporting Calendar

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News & Views

Individual student economic status information required by October 1 count for subsidy calculation

School Administrative Units (SAUs) are required to report individual student information for the purpose of State funding. | More

Maine DOE updates teacher mentoring materials for 2016-17

The Maine DOE is announcing the official release of the newly revised teacher mentoring materials for the 2016-17 school year. | More

Physical education requirements for children with disabilities

Under Maine’s system of learning results, each student is required to study and achieve proficiency in the eight content areas including physical education. | More

OSERS issues “Dear Colleague Letter” regarding positive behavior interventions and supports

On August 1, 2016, the Office of Special Education and Rehabilitative Services (OSERS) issued a “Dear Colleague Letter” (DCL) on the requirement that schools provide positive behavioral supports to students with disabilities when needed. | More

Integrated Pest Management helps schools develop healthier learning environments

Maine School IPM is dedicated to reducing risks of pests and pesticides in Maine schools. | More

District wellness policies required to be updated by June 30, 2017

School administrative units participating in federal child nutrition programs such as the USDA National School Lunch Program are required to have updated wellness policies. | More

More Dispatches | Press Releases | Priority Notices

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LATEST DOE Career/Project Opportunities

• Request for Proposals: HIV Prevention Education
• View current Child Development Services employment opportunities here

From the Maine Department of Education

Districts asked to designate assessment coordinator

The following Priority Notice was distributed on Wednesday, Sept. 7 to superintendents requesting they identify a district assessment coordinator to coordinator and ensure a successful administration of the 2016-17 State assessments.

Dear Superintendents,

As we begin another school year, your district will again identify individuals in key roles in the NEO Staff System. On behalf of the assessment team, I am asking you to consider carefully your choice of the individual designated as the District Assessment Coordinator (DAC). While the DAC may not be directly responsible for all the details associated with the various assessments, the Maine DOE will count on this individual to be familiar with all State assessments in order to help address any issues that may occur.

The State assessments include:

• eMPowerME (general assessment of mathematics and ELA/literacy in grades 3-8)
• SAT (general assessment of mathematics and ELA/literacy at third year high school)
• MSAA (alternate assessment of mathematics and ELA/literacy at grades 3-8 and third year high school)
• MEA Science (general assessment of science at grades 5, 8, and third year high school)
• PAAP (alternate assessment of science at grades 5, 8 and third year high school)
• ACCESS for ELLs (general and alternate assessment of English language proficiency K-12)

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Notices and Reporting Items

• Leased Space Application, due Sept. 15 (Reminder)
• Special Education Tuition & Board Report (EF-S-07), due Sept. 15 (Reminder)
• School Bus Purchase Report (EF-T-20: Quarter 1), due Sept. 30 (Reminder)
• School Revolving Renovation Fund Application, due Sept. 30 (Reminder)
• Gifted & Talented Annual Program Approval, due Sept. 30 (Reminder)

More Notices | Administrative Letters | Reporting Calendar

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News & Views

Revised model bullying and cyberbullying prevention policy and procedures

The model bullying and cyberbullying prevention policy, first adopted in 2013 as a result of An Act to Prohibit Bullying and Cyberbullying in Schools (PL 659), has been revised. | More

Maine DOE has ended all open placement notifications (EF-S-01 forms) as of June 30

To ensure data quality Maine DOE has ended all open placement notifications (EF-S-01 forms) in the NEO data system as of June 30, 2016 and will continue to end notifications annually. | More

New procedures for audit and corrective action plan extensions

Maine DOE has implemented new procedures for audit and corrective action plan extensions for school administrative units and municipal school units.| More

Annual notification of eligibility for schoolwide programs

Schools that receive federal Title I funds, have poverty rates of at least 40 percent and have approved Title IA Schoolwide Plans are eligible to use their Title I funds – and funds from other sources – to develop “schoolwide programs.” | More

Maine DOE encourages arts educators to attend pre-conference during the Maine International Conference on the Arts

Maine DOE and the Maine Arts Commission invite visual and performing arts educators to attend a half-day workshop during the Maine International Conference on the Arts. | More

Transportation Safety and Training Annual Data Report (EFT-21) due date extension

The due date for the year-end Transportation Safety and Training Annual Data Report (EFT-21) has been extended to December 31, 2016. | More

Maine DOE conducts professional development for teams of educators from Title I priority and focus schools

The Maine DOE in collaboration with Syntiro, conducted August professional development for teams of educators from Title I priority and focus schools across the state. | More

Maine DOE provides complimentary 2016-17 law books to superintendents

The Maine DOE acquired enough copies of the Maine Education and School Statutes 2016-2017 Edition law to distribute one at no charge to each superintendent of schools in Maine. | More

More Dispatches | Press Releases | Priority Notices

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LATEST DOE Career/Project Opportunities

• Education Specialist III – Certification Specialist
• Education Specialist III – School Enrollment/Approval
• Request for Proposals: HIV Prevention Education
• View current Child Development Services employment opportunities here

From the Maine Department of Education

2017 Teacher of the Year state finalists selected

The Maine DOE in partnership with Educate Maine, recently named three teachers as state finalists for Maine’s 2017 Teacher of the Year. They were chosen from this year’s County Teachers of the Year who were named in May at a celebration at the State House Hall of Flags.

The state finalists are:

• Hancock: Becky Tapley, Brooklin Elementary School
• Penobscot: Cherrie MacInnes, Brewer Community School
• Somerset: Tammy Ranger, Skowhegan Area Middle School

The process going forward for the state finalists include personal interviews and a school site visit before the 2017 Maine Teacher of the Year is selected. Review panels during the selection process consist of past Teachers of the Year, school administrators, Department staff, members of professional education organizations and the business community. The 2017 Maine Teacher of the Year will be announced at a surprise all-school assembly in October.

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Notices and Reporting Items

• Leased Space Application, due Sept. 15 (Reminder)
• Special Education Tuition & Board Report (EF-S-07), due Sept. 15 (Reminder)
• School Bus Purchase Report (EF-T-20: Quarter 1), due Sept. 30
• School Revolving Renovation Fund Application, due Sept. 30
• Gifted & Talented Annual Program Approval, due Sept. 30
• EPS October 1 Enrollment Reporting, due Oct. 31
• Graduation Reporting, due Oct. 31
• Staff Data Reporting 2016-17, due Oct. 31

More Notices | Administrative Letters | Reporting Calendar

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News & Views

Update of Maine Schools form now overdue – Important Second Notice

The Update of Maine Schools form must be completed immediately. Public, 60% publicly funded, private, and CTE regions are all required to submit the form. | More

National Board Certified Teacher Salary Supplement due Oct. 15

The list of those eligible to receive the salary supplement for the 2016-17 school year is due to the Department by October 15. | More

National Board Certified Teacher Scholarship Funds available

A school administrative unit or a publicly supported secondary school or CTE region, may request scholarship funds on behalf of its teachers who meet the requirements.| More

Maine DOE invites arts teachers to participate in regional professional development series

All visual and performing arts teachers are invited to participate in a three-part, regional professional development series on assessment in the classroom. | More

Maine DOE and UMaine system to provide professional development for Positive Behavior Interventions and Supports (PBIS)

This fall the Maine DOE and three campuses from the University of Maine system will begin providing professional development and technical assistance. | More

English language teacher leaders attend ESL Summer Academy at UMaine

English learner educators from twenty-five school districts participated in the ESL Summer Academy at UMaine in Orono. | More

A reminder to be safe when sharing the road with school buses

It is crucial to follow the rules of the road to keep Maine children safe on their journey to and from school. | More

Maine STEM Summit and grant competition for educators

Maine DOE encourages educators to attend the upcoming Maine STEM Summit on Friday, Nov. 18 at Colby College in Waterville. | More

More Dispatches | Press Releases | Priority Notices

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LATEST DOE Career/Project Opportunities

• Education Specialist II – Special Education Consultant (2 positions)
• Education Specialist III – Certification Specialist
• Education Specialist III – School Enrollment/Approval
• Request for Proposals: HIV Prevention Education
• View current Child Development Services employment opportunities here

From the Maine Department of Education

Maine educators receive presidential recognition for excellence in math and science

Four Maine educators are among 213 mathematics and science teachers recognized by President Obama as recipients of the prestigious Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science (PAEMST). The educators will receive their awards at a ceremony in Washington, D.C. on September 8.

Awardees of the kindergarten through grade six cohort are Lauree Gott from Veazie Community School and Laura Stevens, second grade teacher at James Otis Kaler Elementary School in South Portland. Marielle Edgecomb from the Peninsula School in Prospect Harbor, and Cary James from Bangor High School are Maine’s awardees for the grade seven through twelve cohort.

The Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching is awarded annually to outstanding K-12 science and mathematics teachers from across the country. Winners of this Presidential honor receive a $10,000 award from the National Science Foundation to be used at their discretion.

Continue reading →

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Notices and Reporting Items

• Year-End Report of Special Purpose Private Schools (CARES) EF-S-10, due Aug. 31 (Reminder)
• Leased Space Application, due Sept. 15 (Reminder)
• Special Education Tuition & Board Report (EF-S-07), due Sept. 15 (Reminder)

More Notices | Administrative Letters | Reporting Calendar

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News & Views

Maine DOE to distribute funds to support proficiency-based diploma transition

In September, the Maine DOE will distribute grants to support the transition to proficiency-based diplomas to school administrative units operating schools. | More

Update of Maine Schools form now overdue

The Update of Maine Schools form is now overdue. This electronic version replaced a paper form previously sent to school administrative units and private schools last year. | More

USDOE releases guidance on civil rights of students with ADHD

The U.S. Department of Education has issued guidance clarifying the obligation of State and local educational agencies, including charter schools, to provide students with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) with equal educational opportunity. | More

Maine DOE launches new school transportation website

As Maine school districts prepare to open for the school year, staff will have access to a new school transportation website. | More

Putting Reading First in Maine videos now available online

The Putting Reading First in Maine instructional video collection, a key resource featuring reading instruction and assessment practices happening in Maine schools, is now available online. | More

MAITC seeking next Agricultural Teacher of the Year

Each year, Maine Agriculture in the Classroom recognizes an outstanding Maine elementary or secondary school teacher. | More

More Dispatches | Press Releases | Priority Notices

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LATEST DOE Career/Project Opportunities

• Education Specialist II – Special Education Consultant (2 positions)
• Request for Proposals: HIV Prevention Education
• View current Child Development Services employment opportunities here

From the Maine Department of Education

Summer Literacy Institute draws nearly 400 educators

The Maine Department of Education’s English language arts/literacy team worked with educator groups across the K-2, 3-5, 6-8 and 9-12 grade spans this month as they continue to develop proficiency systems in their schools. Educators explored high impact instructional routines and strategies that support students’ literacy learning and discussed methods of integrating these into their everyday teaching practices.

Understanding of Maine’s ELA/literacy standards was incorporated into the sessions which also examined collaborative conversation in the classroom as well as how to improve reading and writing skills.

Continue reading →

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Notices and Reporting Items

• Annual Budget Reporting, due Aug. 25
• Year End Financial Reporting, due Aug. 25
• Year-End Report of Special Purpose Private Schools (CARES) EF-S-10, due Aug. 31
• Leased Space Application, due Sept. 15
• Special Education Tuition & Board Report (EF-S-07), due Sept. 15

More Notices | Administrative Letters | Reporting Calendar

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News & Views

Clarification of Commissioner’s Review of Superintendent Agreements

The Maine Department of Education is clarifying the Commissioner’s role regarding superintendent agreement transfers pursuant to 20-A MRS §5205(6)(B). | More

Notice of education-related laws in effect March, April

The following education–related laws enacted in March and April of this year pertain to school budgets, special education regulations, medication administration, charter schools and more. | More

Notice of proposed rule changes to Chapter 101: special education

The Maine Department of Education is proposing a refinement to two sections of Rule Chapter 101: Maine Unified Special Education Regulation Birth to Age Twenty. | More

Notice of proposed rule changes to Chapter 126/261: school children immunization requirements

The Maine Department of Education and the Department of Health and Human Services Center for Disease Control and Prevention are proposing refinements to joint rule Chapters 126/261: Immunization Requirements for School Children. | More

Notice of proposed rule changes to Chapters 221, 229, 230: adult education

The Maine Department of Education is proposing refinements to three  chapters related to adult education. | More

New proposed rule Chapter 41: offering instruction in schools related to CPR and the use of AEDs

The following information was shared in the last Maine DOE Update. Please note this is a proposed rule. | More

MaineCare Seed payment adjustments made

The 2016-17 subsidy checks for General Purpose Aid for local schools will reflect adjustments for MaineCare Seed payments paid by the Maine DOE on behalf of school administrative units (SAUs). | More

SAUs to stop annually filing EF-S-03 for certification, background check status

School administrative units will no longer file the EF-S-03 report for the purpose of notifying the Department about the status of certification and/or licenses and criminal history record checks for contracted service providers for students with disabilities. | More

Mentoring workshop for educators of gifted and talented program

The Maine Department of Education will sponsor a mentoring workshop for new and experienced gifted and talented educators at the Augusta Armory on September 7. | More

Youth health survey to be delivered next February

The Maine Department of Education is pleased to announce the fifth administration of the Maine Integrated Youth Health Survey (MIYHS) will be conducted in February. | More

Maine’s CTE professional trucking program captures national attention

Approximately 70 students in Maine are enrolled in a course of study designed for future careers in commercial trucking. | More

Maine School Transportation Safety Conference held last month

The Maine Department of Education sponsored the forty-fifth annual Maine School Transportation Safety Conference in collaboration with the Maine State Police and Maine Association for Pupil Transportation last month. | More

Educator prep programs focus at higher education workshop

Higher education representatives gathered with Maine DOE to discuss educator preparation programs throughout Maine colleges and universities with educator career tracks. | More

An inside look at Maine’s 2016 County Teachers of the Year

Seven Maine educators went before the State review panel as part of the 2017 Maine Teacher of the Year selection process. | More

Oxford Hills School district creating a healthier learning environment

One of the great benefits of the district’s IPM program is that both students and staff take home what they learn about IPM practices at school. | More
More Dispatches | Press Releases | Priority Notices

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LATEST DOE Career/Project Opportunities

• Education Specialist II – Special Education Consultant (2 positions)
• Request for Proposals: HIV Prevention Education
• View current Child Development Services employment opportunities here

From the Maine Department of Education

Notice of new rule: Instruction related to use of CPR and AEDs in public schools

The following rule, Chapter 41: Offering Instruction Related to Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation and the Use of an Automated Defibrillator in Maine Public Schools, requires public schools to offer training to students on how to perform cardiopulmonary resuscitation and use automated external defibrillators.

The rule was designed to ensure that the training requirements can be met without public schools being required to expand or modify their activities so as to necessitate additional expenditures from local revenues.

Continue reading →

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Notices and Reporting Items

• Maine Schools Update, due August 15
• Annual Budget Reporting, due August 25
• Year End Financial Reporting, due August 25
• Year-End Report of Special Purpose Private Schools (CARES) EF-S-10, due August 31

More Notices | Administrative Letters | Reporting Calendar

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News & Views

Refresh moving forward for MLTI devices

The Maine Department of Education is announcing that the Maine Learning Technology Initiative (MLTI) Opt-in and Refresh contract has been finalized. | More

Infinite Campus State Edition now open for student data entry

Infinite Campus State Edition is now open for student data entry for the 2016-17 school year. | More

FY 2016 annual audit requirements

The Maine Department of Education would like to remind the field that statements of assurance and MEDMS financial reconciliations, as required by Title 20-A MRSA 6051 §4, are due by November 2. | More

MSAA report window opens earlier

The MEA Alternate Mathematics and ELA/Literacy (MSAA) reporting window will open two months earlier than last year’s operational (NCSC) reporting window. | More

School transportation software updated

As of August 3, the Transfinder Infofinder i website was updated to offer more routing and transportation management software for easier and faster access for parents and school districts alike. | More

Federal homeless education amendments effective October

Amendments to the McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act go into effect October 1. | More

Extended window for ESSA stakeholder feedback

The Department has extended the deadline for a feedback survey. Survey results will be collected now through August 31. | More

Regional SLO trainings held late August

The Department will offer Student Learning Objective (SLO) training on August 22 and 23 to school administrative units in support of the development of Performance Evaluation and Professional Growth systems. | More

NEO data workshops underway

Over 500 school administrators are participating in the 14 NEO data system training workshops across the state that began on July 19 and will finish on August 18. | More

Early college opportunities worth exploring this summer

The Maine Department of Education would like to remind high school students of the many opportunities available for an early start on a college track. | More

AP4ALL program ready for fall

Eleven of Maine’s AP4ALL instructors were in training last week, both in person and virtually. | More

Eligibility reminder for Aspirations Program

The Departments’s Aspirations Program provides eligible Maine high school students with an opportunity to receive academic credits toward both a high school diploma as well as an associate- or baccalaureate-level degree. | More

Summer Institute crosses globe, tells stories

Educators acquired new skills at the 2016 Maine Learning Technology Initiative (MLTI) Summer Institute last week. | More

Summer Institute educates over half of state’s school nurses

The Maine Department of Education hosted the 2016 School Nurse Summer Institute, Kaleidoscope of School Nursing Practice last week at Bates College in Lewiston. | More

Maine DOE seeks to fill vacancies on Title I Committee of Practitioners

The Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) requires that each state educational agency that receives Title I funds must create a State Committee of Practitioners (COP) to advise the State in carrying out its responsibilities. | More

Temporary job opportunities: Assessment Administrators

Westat Data Corporation is recruiting motivated individuals who are committed to excellence and are experienced in working with primary and secondary school students for the 2017 National Assessment of Educational Progress for the National Center for Education Statistics. | More

First Early Childhood Education Institute planned for this month

The Maine Department of Education’s first Early Childhood Education (ECE) Institute will be held at the Augusta Civic Center on August 23-24 for over 200 ECE professionals. | More

Reminder: update school emergency operation plans

Summer provides an opportunity for school districts to complete an annual review and update of their Emergency Operations Plan, also known as a Comprehensive Emergency Management Plan. | More

Medicaid Educational Liaison ready to assist schools

Maine Department of Education staff recently met with the new State Medicaid Education Liaison, Trista Collins from the Department of Human Services, about her work with schools and Medicaid Reimbursement. | More

More Dispatches | Press Releases | Priority Notices

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LATEST DOE Career/Project Opportunities

• View current Child Development Services employment opportunities here