ATOMIM Conference Gathers Educators from Across Maine to Advance Mathematics Learning

On March 24, 2026, an Association of Teachers of Mathematics in Maine (ATOMIM) Conference convened more than 230 educators, instructional leaders, and partners for a full-day professional learning experience centered on the theme, “Developing Mathematical Reasoning for All: Ensuring Everyone Is Counted In.” Supported by partners including Imagine Learning, Texas Instruments, McGraw Hill, and the Maine Department of Education (DOE), the conference showcased a comprehensive program designed to translate research into classroom practice while advancing a more equitable mathematics learning ecosystem.

The conference theme was woven throughout every session, reinforcing that mathematical reasoning is not reserved for a subset of students but is a critical skill for all learners. Presenters consistently focused on removing barriers to participation, addressing math anxiety, and building confidence and identity in mathematics.

Opening keynote speaker Vanessa Vakharia set the tone by challenging traditional definitions of success in math education and stating, “There’s no such thing as ‘not a math person.’” Her message—reframing failure as a necessary part of learning—resonated across sessions that followed, many of which addressed math trauma, student mindset, and inclusive teaching strategies. Vakharia further emphasized that, “Success and failure are not mutually exclusive.I In an inclusive classroom, we must have both working together.”

Across three session blocks, attendees engaged in more than 20 breakout sessions spanning grade levels pre-K–12 and beyond. Topics reflected a balance of foundational skill-building and innovative approaches, including strengthening number sense and multiplicative reasoning in early grades; using games, models, and hands-on tools to deepen conceptual understanding; applying algebra and data science to real-world contexts such as energy and community issues; and integrating technology, AI, and coding to make mathematics interactive and relevant.

Sessions such as “Using Culture and Identity to Teach Mathematics in the Age of AI” and “Data-Rich Math Routines” highlighted how culturally responsive teaching and real-world data can make mathematics more meaningful and accessible—key components of broadening participation in STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) fields.

A central throughline of the conference was equity. Many sessions focused on differentiation strategies, multilingual learner support, and inclusive instructional frameworks such as Universal Design for Learning (UDL). Educators explored how to redesign lessons, assessments, and classroom routines to ensure all students can engage in rigorous mathematical thinking. Workshops on math therapy, rubric design, and brain-based learning provided actionable strategies to support diverse learners, reinforcing that equity is achieved not through simplification but through intentional, inclusive design.

Beyond content, the conference highlighted the importance of student identity and belonging in mathematics. Sessions explored how storytelling, discussion routines such as “Notice and Wonder,” and collaborative problem solving can help students see themselves as capable mathematicians. Interactive formats—ranging from hands-on games to panel discussions—encouraged participants to actively engage, reflect, and share practices. This approach fostered a strong sense of professional community and reinforced the idea that improving math education requires collective effort.

Several sessions addressed the evolving role of mathematics in preparing students for college, careers, and civic life. Innovative course pathways, such as financial algebra and career-focused math programs, were presented as alternatives to traditional sequences, helping align instruction with workforce needs. These discussions underscored the importance of equipping students with not only procedural skills but also the reasoning, problem-solving, and analytical abilities necessary for success in STEM-related fields.

Reflecting on the experience, one participant shared, “I enjoyed learning about the numeracy playbook and understanding how it will work. It was especially valuable to interact with educators from across the state and learn what they are doing, as well as ways I can change up my math teaching.”

The 2026 ATOMIM Conference demonstrated how a focused, theme-driven convening can advance both instructional practice and broader educational goals. With more than 230 participants engaged in deep learning and collaboration, the event highlighted a shared commitment to ensuring that every student has access to meaningful, high-quality mathematics education.

To learn more about the Association of Teachers of Mathematics in Maine (ATOMIM) please visit their website.

Maine DOE Office of Teaching and Learning Brings Choice-Driven Professional Learning to AOS 96

“The roads go both ways in Machias,” AOS 96 Superintendent Nicole Case said to a crowd of more than 200 educators as she welcomed them to Rose M. Gaffney Elementary School for a day of professional learning facilitated by the Maine Department of Education (DOE) Office of Teaching and Learning.

Educators from across the AOS, including from Jonesboro Elementary School, Rose M. Gaffney Elementary School (Machias), Machias Memorial High School, Elm Street Elementary School (East Machias), Whiting Village School, Bay Ridge Elementary School (Cutler), and Fort O’Brien School (Machiasport), came together for a learning experience grounded in a key idea: Professional learning is most impactful when educators have meaningful choice.

“It is so important for our teaching staff, teachers, and techs to be able to interact and learn from members of the Maine DOE,” Case said. “To truly improve our craft, we need opportunities to hear and see what is happening in education beyond our district, while also connecting and collaborating with our peers.”

The workshop featured sessions led by members of the Maine DOE Office of Teaching and Learning, Early Learning team, Interdisciplinary Instruction team, and MOOSE (Maine Online Open-Source Education) platform team. Throughout the day (and previous afternoon), educators selected from a range of options aligned to their roles, grade levels, and students. This choice-driven structure created space for meaningful collaboration and deep engagement with learning connected to play-based, literacy, numeracy, and inclusive instructional practices.

During the sessions, participants explored how literacy and numeracy can be strengthened through integrated, real-world learning experiences. Teachers examined how historical and geographic data can be used to design maps and models that support mathematical reasoning, while also considering how civic learning opportunities, such as analyzing primary source documents, can deepen analytical reading and evidence-based thinking. Other sessions focused on inquiry and purposeful questioning as tools to build student curiosity, strengthen comprehension, and foster ownership of learning.

Educators also explored the use of multimodal texts, including graphic novels and student-created visual storytelling, to support vocabulary development, inference, fluency, and comprehension across content areas. Hands-on numeracy learning highlighted how manipulatives, collaborative problem-solving, and mathematical discourse can build conceptual understanding and increase student confidence.

Sessions on Universal Design for Learning emphasized the importance of proactively planning for learner variability to create more equitable and accessible learning environments. Educators worked together to identify practical strategies for strengthening student agency while aligning instruction with clear literacy and numeracy goals.

Additional sessions explored how dispositions such as curiosity, persistence, and flexibility can be intentionally nurtured through authentic instruction. Participants reflected on how these habits of mind are already developing in their classrooms and discussed ways to strengthen them to support deeper engagement and a positive school culture.

By centering educator choice, the Maine DOE and AOS 96 created a professional learning experience that supported collaboration, practical application, and forward-looking instructional design. This shared commitment to strengthening literacy and numeracy through responsive, engaging learning continues to support educators across AOS 96 as they create meaningful opportunities for all students.

For more information on how to bring the Maine DOE Interdisciplinary Instruction team to your district-wide professional learning day, please contact Kathy Bertini, Maine DOE Interdisciplinary Instruction Coordinator, at Kathy.Bertini@maine.gov.

Celebrating Maine’s Future: Public Invited to Experience the Power of Extended Learning Opportunities

Educators, students, Maine Department of Education (DOE) community and agency partners, and members of the public are invited to the Hall of Flags at the State House in Augusta on April 30, 2026, from 1 to 4 p.m. for the Extended Learning Opportunities (ELO) showcase of student success, innovation, and partnership.

This event will highlight the transformative impact of ELOs on schools and communities statewide. Throughout Maine, ELOs are opening doors for students and bringing learning to life through hands-on, work-based learning and career exploration. These opportunities not only help students discover their passions and build essential skills but also connect them with local employers and career pathways in meaningful and lasting ways.

Attendees will have the chance to meet students and educators from schools including Gorham High School, Brewer High School, Noble High School, Maine Arts Academy, Telstar High School, and Brunswick High School, and hear firsthand how ELOs are shaping confidence, purpose, and possibility for Maine’s young people.

A featured program at 1:30 p.m. will include remarks from representatives of the Maine DOE, the Maine Department of Economic and Community Development, and students, who will share highlights of their ELO programs. There will be opportunity for students to take statehouse tours and participate in a mock public hearing.

For more information, please visit the Maine DOE Extended Learning Opportunities webpage or contact Lana Sawyer, Maine DOE Extended Learning Coordinator, at lana.sawyer@maine.gov. Registration for the event can be found here: Event Calendar | Maine Department of Education.

Maine Celebrates the Transformative Impact of Adult Education at State House Event

On Thursday, April 2, 2026, the Maine Department of Education (DOE), in collaboration with the Maine Adult Education Association, hosted a celebration of adult education in the Hall of Flags at the Maine State House. The event brought together educators, learners, state leaders, and partners from across Maine to highlight the powerful impact adult education has on individuals, communities, and the state’s economy.

Representatives from Maine’s nine adult education regional hubs, Maine Department of Labor (DOL) Commissioner Laura Fortman, Maine DOE Associate Commissioner of Public Education Megan Welter, members of the Maine DOE Adult Education Team, and members of the Maine Adult Education Association gathered from 8 a.m. to noon to share stories, data, and firsthand experiences that demonstrate the value of adult education.

During the 2024-2025 academic year, more than 12,400 adults in Maine participated in adult basic education, high school completion, college preparation, and workforce training programs offered through 65 adult education programs statewide. In addition, more than 3,000 workforce certifications were awarded in high-demand fields such as healthcare, manufacturing, and commercial driving—representing a 15 percent increase over the previous year.

The event showcased how these programs help adult learners build foundational and occupational skills, opening doors to new opportunities and strengthening Maine’s workforce.

“In Maine, it’s estimated that every dollar invested in adult education returns approximately four to seven dollars to the state economy through increased wages, higher tax revenue, and reduced reliance on public assistance,” Maine DOE State Director of Adult Education Megan Dichter said, highlighting the broader economic impact of these investments. “It’s not theoretical. That’s driven by real outcomes. Adult education contributes to more Mainers entering and staying in the workforce.”

At the event, Maine DOL Commissioner Laura Fortman emphasized the importance of collaboration across sectors.

“This is a system, and it does take all of us working together. Adult education is not simply about classes. It is a vital workforce pipeline. It connects education to employers and learning to real career opportunities in every corner of Maine’s economy, ” Fortman said.

Maine DOE Associate Commissioner of Public Education Megan Welter also spoke at the event, highlighting the vital role adult education plays within Maine’s broader education and workforce system.

“We’re getting to showcase the impact that adult education has on our state,” Welter said. “Adult learners are able to build their foundational and occupational skills…helping them advance in their work, support their families, and participate more fully in their communities.”

Welter also underscored the system’s importance and connectivity, explaining that “adult education is not a separate system…It is an integrated part of Maine’s education and workforce ecosystem,” creating clear pathways for learners to achieve their goals.

At the heart of the event were the voices of adult learners, whose stories brought the impact of these programs to life.

Questia Kabemba, a student at Lewiston Adult Education, shared a powerful sentiment about her journey:

“I stand here before you for reflection. I want you not just to remember my name, but I want you to remember what happens when opportunity meets someone who is ready to receive it.”

She described the welcoming and empowering environment at Lewiston Adult Education.

“At Lewiston Adult Education, I found more than just a building. I found a place where people like me were not defined by where we came from but rather where we could go,” Kabemba said. “We were not judged. Rather, we were given opportunity. We were welcomed with our accents, with our cultures, with our stories, and with our unfinished journeys.”

Kabemba added the opportunities at Lewiston Adult Education were life-changing.

“These are not just a list of accomplishments. These are transformations,” Kabemba said.

Brian O’Donnell, a student at Oxford Hills/Nezinscot Adult Education, shared how adult education continues to support learners at every stage of life.

“I have been employed in the construction industry for more than 50 years. I began my career in the plumbing trade and have held the master plumber’s license for 42 years. I believe the heat pump and solar panel technology training is a true asset to expand my knowledge and expertise to actively work to incorporate green technology to my resume,” O’Donnell said.

He also commented on the quality of instruction and hands-on learning: “The course was extremely instructive in introducing people unfamiliar as well as trained people…in construction safety, basic electrical knowledge, photovoltaic solar panel theory and installation, as well as heat pump theory and installation.”

O’Donnell expressed his appreciation for the accessibility of the program.

“The opportunity to access this course through a partnership of a federal government and state government grant was truly appreciated by all participants who attended the program,” O’Donnell said.

Together, these stories and perspectives underscore the critical role adult education plays in Maine—empowering individuals, strengthening families, supporting employers, and driving economic growth. As highlighted throughout the event, adult education is not only transforming lives but also building a stronger, more resilient Maine for the future.

Maine DOE Hosts Successful Regional Farmer-School Matchmaking Event in Bangor

On March 13, 2026, at the James F. Doughty School in Bangor, the Maine Department of Education (DOE) Child Nutrition team hosted an interactive “speed-meeting” event, designed to help school nutrition programs connect with local producers and distributors. Organized by Maine DOE Regional Local Foods Project coordinators Martha Poliquin (manager), Roxanne Bruce (Aroostook and Northern Washington Counties), Sandy Fortin (Hancock and Southern Washington Counties), and Amanda Junkins (Penquis, Somerset, and Waldo counties), the gathering was intended to help schools gain strong community partnerships and resources in their areas. This was the first event of its kind in the Bangor region.

The afternoon kicked off with a panel discussion of school nutrition directors, regional Local Foods Project coordinators, and representatives from the Maine Coast Fishermen’s Association, FarmDrop, and Native Maine Produce. Topics of conversation included success stories, challenges, and explanations of the “why” behind buying local.

Panelists were Dr. Roxanne Bruce, Regional Local Foods Project Coordinator; Melanie Lagasse, Director of Food Services for the Madawaska School Department, MSAD 27, and RSU 33; Laura Baker, MSAD 1/RSU 79 Food Service Director; Rosie Villano, Downeast FarmDrop Manager; Susan Olcott, Director of Strategic Partnerships, Maine Coast Fishermen’s Association; and Alex Powell from Native Maine. The panel was moderated by Alida Peterson from the Maine Farm and Sea to School Network.

“We live so far up north that resources are very limited, so we often have to work miracles and jump through hoops to make things happen,” Melanie Lagasse, Director of Food Services for the Madawaska School Department, MSAD 27, and RSU 33, said. “One of the best parts of participating in the local program is being able to drive down to Portland and pick up fish right off the pier. Last week, I picked up 860 pounds of flash-frozen haddock. Honestly, I’m surprised my van made it back! Because of that trip, I was able to provide fish not just to my three school districts but to another district, as well. It really gives us the opportunity to bring more—and healthier—food into our schools.”

MSAD 1/RSU 79 Food Services Director Laura Baker shared a recent example of how using locally grown food has played out in her district.She said last summer, when local growers had an overabundance of squash, her response was immediate: “Just drop it. I don’t care what kind you bring me—just bring it and drop it.”.

Baker said initially, her kitchen staff was surprised and unsure of what to do with so much squash.

“We’re going to process this, and we’re going to freeze it, and we’re going to have it for later. Don’t stress,” Baker explained to her staff. “They’re adapting. They’re doing better—because the kids are liking it.”

Rosie Villano, Downeast FarmDrop Manager, described the organization’s “small but mighty” relationship with schools. Its primary buyer over the past year has been Mount Desert Elementary in AOS 91 with Chef Tasha Higgins. FarmDrop provides the school primarily with salad bar greens and bulk spring mixes, as well as scallions, cherry tomatoes, and other items that can be purchased in small quantities.

“[They are] able to place a $30 order and just get what they want,” Villano explained. “The reason we’re able to do that and the reason why we’re able to get it from the farms is because it’s built off of our retail program.”

Villano described the process: “So, every week we go to Mount Desert Island to deliver retail customer orders, and Tasha can pick up her order at the same time as any other customer, and that has been really cool to be able to have this infrastructure that supports multiple types of buyers.”

Following the panel discussion, a round-robin format among buyers, producers, and distributors took place, allowing for deeper conversations. A common theme among buyers of small districts was a lack of storage and challenges meeting the case minimums of distributors. Participants brainstormed options to overcome these obstacles, including purchasing in smaller volumes to meet the needs of all buyers.

The day ended with taste tests and samplings of various local food items, including a local fish stew from Hurricane’s Soup and Chowder, pizza dough from The Good Crust, and fresh fruits and vegetables from local farmers and distributors.

The event was a great networking opportunity for farmers and schools. It inspired confidence that there is more than one way to expand local options in school nutrition programs. With knowledge, resources, and grit, school districts in the state are finding creative ways to provide students with the freshest, most nutritious ingredients that Maine has to offer.

Participants got to sample a spread of local fruit and vegetables with assorted dressings.

Pictured: Roxanne Bruce, Regional Local Foods Project Coordinator, and Martha Poliquin, Regional Local Foods Project Manager

Federal grant funds received from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) support the implementation of this project. The project has an award totaling $494,000. The contents are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily represent the official views of, nor an endorsement by, USDA or the U.S. government.

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

Registration is now open for the summer 2026 “ElevatED” professional learning experience! Through a partnership between the Maine Department of Education (DOE) and Educate Maine/the Teach Maine Center, this event is bringing together the 2026 Maine DOE Annual Summit and the second annual Every Teacher a Leader Conference for three days of collaboration, inspiration, and high-quality professional learning for Maine’s education workforce.

ElevatED will take place at Thomas College (180 West River Road, Waterville, ME 04901) from July 29-31, 2026. The Maine DOE Annual Summit on Day 1 (July 29) is tailored to meet the needs of Maine’s education workforce, including school staff, educators, school safety professionals, and building and instructional leaders. The Every Teacher a Leader Conference on Days 2 and 3 (July 30 and 31) features teacher-led sessions designed specifically for classroom teachers.

Individuals interested in attending may register for one or both ElevatED opportunities. Please note that spots are limited and will be granted on a first-come, first-served basis.

Maine DOE Annual Summit

Cost: $120
- A light breakfast and lunch are included.
Registration Link: https://biz.maine.gov/761736

Every Teacher a Leader Conference

Cost: Those who register by May 15, 2026, will get early-bird pricing of $90. After that, the cost is $120.
- Breakfast and lunch are included on both days.
- An optional dinner for educators will also be included the evening of July 30, 2026, from 6-8 p.m.
Registration Link: https://etalmaine2026.sched.com/registration

Attendees are responsible for booking their own lodging accommodations if they plan to stay overnight. Learn more and book here.

Maine DOE Update – March 27, 2026

From the Maine Department of Education

Data & Reporting

Upcoming End-of-Year Reports, Resources, and Updates

At the end of each school year, school administrative units (SAUs) are responsible for completing a number of required reports. As a reminder, the Maine Department of Education (DOE) Data Team has many resources available to SAUs to support their end-of-year reporting. | More

News & Updates

Maine DOE Seeking Educators to Pilot MOOSE Modules and Wabanaki Studies Educator Guides

The Maine Department of Education (DOE) is currently seeking educators to pilot Maine’s Online Open-Source Education (MOOSE) modules, as well as new Wabanaki Studies Educator Guides, with their classrooms this spring. | More

Maine DOE Seeking Outdoor Learning Stories for National Environmental Education Week, April 20-24, 2026

The Maine Department of Education (DOE) is seeking outdoor learning stories from educators, administrators, and school staff to share during National Environmental Education Week from April 20-24, 2026. | More

Opportunities for Public Comment on Maine’s IDEA Part B and Part C Applications

The Maine Department of Education (DOE) is seeking public comment on its annual applications for federal funding under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), including both Part B and Part C. These applications support services for children and youth with disabilities across Maine, from infancy through age 22. | More

Nominations Open for Maine Instructional Coach of the Year

The Maine Curriculum Leaders Association (MCLA) has announced that nominations are now open for the Instructional Coach of the Year award. Nominations close on May 1, 2026. | More

Nominations Open for Maine Curriculum Leader of the Year

The Maine Curriculum Leaders Association (MCLA) has announced that nominations are now open for the Curriculum Leader of the Year award. Nominations close on May 1, 2026.| More

Call for Proposals Open for Every Teacher a Leader Conference, as Part of New “ElevatED” Experience

Educate Maine and the Teach Maine Center are inviting educators to submit presentation proposals for the 2026 Every Teacher a Leader Conference—part of the new, expanded ElevatED professional learning experience taking place July 29-31, 2026, at Thomas College in Waterville. | More

Maine Schools Sharing Success Stories

BARR Spotlight: Dirigo Middle School Builds Stronger Connections and School Culture Through the BARR Model

At T.W. Kelly Dirigo Middle School in Dixfield, relationships have always been a strength. As part of a small, rural school serving about 170 students in grades 6-8 from Canton, Carthage, Dixfield, and Peru, staff have long prided themselves on knowing their students well. As student needs have become increasingly complex in recent years, however, school leaders have recognized the need for a more intentional and structured approach to ensure that every student feels supported and that no one falls through the cracks. | More

Bonny Eagle Builds Community Through Shared Reading Experience

This February, schools across MSAD 6 (Bonny Eagle School District) took a creative, community-centered approach to the Maine Department of Education’s (DOE) Read to ME Challenge through a districtwide initiative called “BE Reads Together.” | More

Maine ELOs in Action: Sunshine Mini Grant Program Supports Career-Connected Learning through Innovation and Collaboration

In 2023, the Sunshine Mini Grant program was launched with funding from a private trust group, resulting in $88,000 in grants to 18 schools across Maine to expand career exploration for students—including through extended learning opportunities (ELOs). This initiative has positively impacted approximately 300 students from various Maine counties and school administrative units (SAUs), including in programs at Windham, South Portland, and Mountain Valley High Schools. | More

Growing Tradition: Maine FFA Celebrates National FFA Week

Throughout FFA history, various celebrations have emerged to provide additional support to the organization. Of those traditions, one of the most widely celebrated is National FFA Week, which occurs during the last week of February and is focused on sharing FFA’s message with the community and partner organizations. In recent years, members of the Maine FFA Association have not been able to participate in this celebration because of its timing during February vacation. This year, however, the Maine FFA Association was proud to recognize National FFA Week for the first time in recent history. | More

Submit good news to the Maine Department of Education here.

Professional Learning/Training Opportunities

Registration Open for 2026 School Nurse Summer Institute

The Maine Department of Education (DOE) Coordinated School Health Team is hosting its biennial School Nurse Summer Institute (SNSI) on July 28 and 29, 2026, at Sugarloaf Resort in Carrabassett Valley. | More

Maine DOE Invites Educators to Participate in ‘Roots and Stories: Storytelling through Maine Artifacts,’ Professional Learning Opportunity (Updated Kickoff Date)

As spring arrives across Maine, bringing longer days and renewed energy to classrooms, the Maine Department of Education (DOE) Office of Teaching and Learning is inviting educators to participate in a new professional learning opportunity focused on multi-genre storytelling, literacy, and the rich histories of local communities. | More

Two Ocean Science Opportunities from Bigelow Laboratory for Maine Students and Educators

The Maine Department of Education (DOE) is excited to share two engaging opportunities from the Bigelow Laboratory for Ocean Sciences, designed to deepen ocean science learning for both students and educators. From hands-on research experiences for high school juniors to immersive professional development workshops for teachers, these programs connect classroom learning with real-world science. | More

View the Maine Department of Education’s Events Calendar here.

Career/Project Opportunities:

Find education-related jobs in Maine.

Upcoming End-of-Year Reports, Resources, and Updates

This year, as the Maine DOE transitions from Synergy to the new Connect reporting system, SAUs are encouraged to enter all of their 2025-2026 data as soon as possible. This is essential to ensuring that data is accurately reported despite a compressed timeline over the summer due to this transition. On Thursday, April 16, 2026, at noon, the Data Team is hosting a 2026/2027 Reporting Changes Webinar to share more information about this transition. Those interested in attending may register here.

Additional upcoming reports and reporting webinars include:

April 1 Enrollment
- Open Date: April 1, 2026
- Due Date: April 15, 2026
- Webinar: April 1 Enrollment Reporting Webinar on March 31, 2026, at noon – Register here.
Maine Schools
- Open Date: May 1, 2026
- Due Date: June 15, 2026
- Webinar: Maine Schools Report and Maine School Approval
- Webinar on April 30, 2026, at noon – Register here.
ESEA Demographics Report
- Open Date: May 15, 2026
- Accountability Date: May 29, 2026
- Due Date: June 15, 2026
- Webinar: ESEA Demographics Reporting Webinar on May 14, 2026, at noon – Register here.
End of Year Attendance, Truancy, Behavior, and Bullying
- Reporting Period: July 1, 2025-June 30, 2026
- Open all year for reporting
- Due Date: June 30, 2026
- Webinars:
  - Attendance and Truancy Data Entry and Validation Webinar on March 24, 2026, at noon – Register here.
  - Behavior and Bullying Reporting and Validation Webinar on March 26, 2026, at noon – Register here.
Special Education Exit Report
- Open Date: June 1, 2026
- Due Date: June 30, 2026
- Webinar: Special Education Exit Report Webinar on May 12, 2026, at noon – Register here.
Graduation Report
- Open Date: June 1, 2026
- Due Date: August 15, 2026
- Webinar: Graduation Reporting Webinar on May 21, 2026, at noon – Register here.
- Webinar: Special Education Exit Report Webinar on May 12, 2026, at noon – Register here.

SAUs should please also note the following end-of-year data processes for which they are responsible:

Following a decision by the school board related to the reconfiguration of schools, SAUs should contact Maine DOE Education Data Systems Manager Kimberly Hall at Kimberly.A.Hall@maine.gov as soon as possible to notify her of any organizational changes to the SAU. This includes new or closing schools, grade level relocations among schools, integration or separation of SAUs, etc.
All enrollments in Synergy must be exited. An End-of-Year Enrollment Exit Webinar is scheduled for May 19, 2026, at noon. Register here.
SAUs should review staff access to state systems (i.e., NEO, Connect, MEIS, QuickSight). Please contact MEDMS.Support@maine.gov with any requested updates.

Growing Tradition: Maine FFA Celebrates National FFA Week

By: Jillian McLaughlin, Maine FFA State Reporter

To kick off National FFA Week, the state officer team hosted an ice fishing social for FFA members in northern Maine. Ice fishing is a major part of Maine’s social scene during this time of year, and inviting FFA members to fish together offered an opportunity for community engagement and natural resource education. The team traveled to meet FFA members at Long Lake in Sinclair, where they spent a day on the ice, fishing for trout and salmon. For some FFA members, this was their first ice fishing experience, allowing them to learn from and connect with other members from neighboring chapters. The day concluded with a group lunch before heading home to prepare for the week ahead.

Following the ice fishing social, the state officer team, along with members of the Easton FFA Chapter, had the privilege of meeting with National FFA Secretary Lilly Nyland. The group had dinner at a local restaurant in Presque Isle, allowing attendees the chance to get to know Nyland before their Days of Service.

On Monday, FFA members from across northern Maine met at Easton High School for a Day of Service. This year, the state officer team decided to reach out to advisors and other community members to identify community needs that could serve as the basis for the service project. During this outreach, the Maine FFA Association was informed of a significant need for emergency response materials due to numerous recent fires that have devastated homes, public spaces, and farmland. Since many of these communities are quite rural, emergency responders often do not arrive early enough to prevent major damage.

To help these communities, Maine FFA members spent the day packaging fire safety kits, which included smoke detectors, fire safety booklets, fire blankets, and more. The assembly of the kits was supervised by members of the local fire department, many of whom were former FFA members. By the end of the day, FFA members packaged more than 100 emergency response kits, which were later distributed throughout their home chapters.

FFA members from northern Maine gather in Easton with National FFA Secretary Lilly Nyland for a Day of Service.

FFA members from Fryeburg Academy, Lincoln Academy, and Tri-County Technical Center gather at the Dexter Fire Department for a Day of Service.

Following this event, Nyland, along with the state officer team, traveled to Dexter to host the state’s second Day of Service. FFA members from Fryeburg Academy, Lincoln Academy, and the Tri-County Technical Center met at the Dexter Fire Department on Tuesday to continue their service mission. Attendees listened to an informational speech by members of the fire department and watched a demonstration of proper fire extinguisher use. They then came together to package more than 100 emergency kits for distribution across central and southern Maine. Once all kits were complete, FFA members had the opportunity to participate in powerful workshops led by Callie Cullins, Maine FFA State Vice President; Hannah Shaw, Maine FFA State Treasurer; and National FFA Secretary Nyland.

FFA members learn about fire prevention from a Tri-County Technical Center instructor and firefighting students.

The Maine FFA Association is immensely proud of all the FFA members, community supporters, and sponsors who showed up to make Maine’s celebration of National FFA Week happen. The Maine FFA Association would like to extend its gratitude to Nyland and her national staff Ambra Tennery for joining the events and being such a great role model for FFA members.

For more information about National FFA Week, click here.

Funds for the Maine Days of Service were provided through the generous support of MMG Insurance, FA Peabody Insurance, and a State Day of Giving grant.

Registration Open for 2026 School Nurse Summer Institute

The Maine Department of Education (DOE) Coordinated School Health Team is hosting its biennial School Nurse Summer Institute (SNSI) on July 28 and 29, 2026, at Sugarloaf Resort in Carrabassett Valley.

This immersive, multi-day, in-person event brings school nurses from across Maine together for an opportunity for new learning. SNSI is intended to increase knowledge and understanding of current research and evidence-based practices in school nursing and to raise awareness of resources available within the State of Maine. The hope is that school nurses in attendance leave feeling energized and ready to support Maine students.

This year’s SNSI theme is Complex Care, Confident Leadership: School Nurses at the Heart of Student Health. Professional development opportunities will include technical nursing skill sessions focused on supporting children with complex medical needs, such as gastrostomy tubes, central lines, and catheterizations. Other learning opportunities will include nursing leadership, student mental health, emergency planning, immunization clinics, puberty, and more.

The early registration rate is $200, which is available until June 1, 2026, after which the rate will increase to $225. Those interested in attending should register here.

The Coordinated School Health Team is a part of the Maine DOE Office of School and Student Supports. With questions about SNSI, please contact the Maine DOE Office of School and Student Supports at DOESchoolandStudentSupports@maine.gov.