Maine Education Association Honors Award Winners at Annual Dinner

During an annual awards banquet, Maine Education Association (MEA) leaders presented MEA’s Annual Awards, recognizing MEA members and community members who have been exemplary in MEA’s advocacy for Maine students, educators, and public education.

MEA Vice President Beth French and Mike Langley of Merrymeeting EA, a custodian at Woodside Elementary School in Topsham and the Joan McGovern Education Support Professional of the Year

Custodian Named 2026 Joan McGovern Education Support Professional of the Year

MEA named Mike Langley of Merrymeeting EA, a custodian at Woodside Elementary School in Topsham, as the Joan McGovern Education Support Professional of the Year.

As the daytime custodian, Langley keeps the building running by cleaning, fixing, restocking, and supporting the busy school day. For many students, he is far more than the person who cares for the building. In his nomination, colleagues described Langley as a mentor, a valued colleague, and a trusted presence known as “Mr. Mike.”

What truly sets Langley apart is his commitment to providing students with authentic learning experiences beyond the classroom walls. Over the years, he has built outdoor learning spaces, cleared the “Langley Loop” walking trail, and helped transform Woodside’s grounds into places where science, reading, art, and exploration come alive.

Often on his own time after school or on weekends, Langley leads hands-on experiences because he believes students deserve these opportunities. From apple cider pressing and ice-fishing days to the Woodside Maple Syrup Project, he connects students to Maine’s agricultural and outdoor heritage in ways that have become lasting memories for families throughout the community.

His dedication to students and the community extend far beyond the school day. Langley coaches sports teams, teaches students to ride unicycles with the Woodside One Wheelers, and works closely with teachers and the PTO to turn ideas into meaningful opportunities for students.

Through his dedication and generosity, Langley has made a lasting impact on students, colleagues, families, and the entire Woodside community. His work reflects MEA’s commitment to supporting students and strengthening public education.

As the 2026 Joan McGovern Education Support Professional of the Year, Langley will represent Maine for the National Education Association (NEA) Education Support Professional of the Year honor, presented at the NEA Annual Education Support Professional Conference next spring.

MEA also presented the following annual awards to MEA members and community allies:

Kelsey Boucher (Lewiston EA), K-6 art teacher at Robert V. Connors Elementary School in Lewiston

Ashley Bryan Award: Kelsey Boucher

A proud Lewiston native, Kelsey Boucher (Lewiston EA) is a dedicated educator whose commitment to her community has come full circle. A graduate of Lewiston Public Schools, she returned home to serve the same district that shaped her, bringing creativity, leadership, and a strong commitment to equity to her work.

After discovering her passion for art education at the University of Southern Maine, Boucher began teaching elementary visual arts in Lewiston. She currently teaches art to K-6 students at Robert V. Connors Elementary School, where she encourages creativity and student voice every day.

Boucher’s impact extends well beyond the art room. She serves as co‑advisor to the Civil Rights Team, K-6 Art Cohort Leader, and Connors Unified Art Lead, and she has facilitated the Building Anti‑Racist White Educators affinity group.

Ashby Bartke (St. George EA), middle school math teacher at St. George Municipal School Unit

Honor Medal Award: Ashby Bartke

A dedicated middle school math teacher at St. George Municipal School Unit, Ashby Bartke (St. George EA) is known for leading with integrity, courage, and a strong commitment to her students and colleagues. Each day, she brings care and professionalism to her classroom while serving as a trusted advocate within her school community.

As advisor to the Civil Rights Team, Bartke manages the Civil Rights Lending Library, which provides the school community with inclusive texts that support thoughtful conversations about race, religion, identity, and belonging.

Through this work, she has created opportunities for students to engage with inclusive learning materials in a supportive environment. When concerns were raised by parents and administrators this year, Bartke defended students’ rights to access these resources and emphasized their role in building understanding and supporting a safe school environment.

Bartke’s leadership extends beyond her work with students. A respected and active member of her local union, she is often the colleague others turn to for guidance and support. Calm and steady in challenging moments, she stands up for educators’ professional rights while keeping students at the center of her advocacy.

MEA Vice President Beth French and Brittney Drew (Calais EA), 7th- and 8th-grade science teacher

Golden Apple: Brittney Drew

Throughout her time in the Calais School Department, Brittney Drew (Calais EA) has shown a strong commitment to the students, families, and community she serves. She has supported students across grade levels and taken on a variety of roles inside and outside the classroom.

From serving as an Educational Technician and pre‑K lead teacher to her current role as a 7th- and 8th-grade science teacher, Drew has consistently stepped in where she is needed. This range of experience reflects her dedication to supporting students at every stage of their education.

Drew’s impact extends beyond the classroom. She brings care and purpose to her work, supports diverse learners, and gives her time to extracurricular programs and community efforts to help ensure all students have access to opportunities.

Jennifer Marshall (South Portland Service Association) and MEA President Jesse Hargrove

Human and Civil Rights: Jennifer Marshall

When U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) increased operations in Maine this winter, Jennifer Marshall (South Portland Service Association) stepped up to support colleagues and students in South Portland. She worked to ensure they could travel to and from school and work safely and without fear.

To help reduce stress and prevent unnecessary fear among students, Marshall created a radio code system for drivers so that ICE activity could be communicated without alarming students. This approach helped limit exposure to fear and trauma while keeping staff informed.

Marshall’s commitment extends beyond the workplace. She supports families through the South Portland community garden and the mobile food pantry and has helped coordinate food deliveries for immigrant families who were afraid to leave their homes. As a union leader, she also advocates for fairness in the workplace, including helping secure a new position for a member who could no longer perform their job due to an ADA-related issue.

Julia Gay (MEA Student Observer), MEA Vice President Beth French, Pink Feather founder Jen Kyllonen, Jeni Jordan (Oxford Hills EA President), Pink Feather founder Joni Gordon, and Stephanie Michaud (MEA Board Member)

Corporate Award: Pink Feather Foundation

Founded in 2011, the Pink Feather Foundation was created to address a critical need for students by providing access to clean, well-fitting clothing so they can feel comfortable and ready to learn. In 2018, the foundation launched its Teacher Program, recognizing the important role educators play in supporting students’ well-being.

As the program has grown, so has its impact. What began as a small effort has expanded with strong community support, allowing the foundation to operate a large warehouse and work toward establishing a permanent home. This growth has been made possible through donations and a shared commitment to supporting students.

Through the Teacher Program, educators can discreetly order clothing, shoes, and accessories for students in kindergarten through grade 12 at no cost. Teachers work directly with students when possible to help preserve dignity and build trust. All orders remain confidential and are prepared and delivered quickly, often within a few days.

Pam Albert, Chair of the Auburn School Committee

Friend of Education: Pamela Albert

As chair of the Auburn School Committee, Pam Albert has been a steady and thoughtful presence for Auburn’s schools. She has shown a strong commitment to students, educators, and the broader school community through her leadership and advocacy.

Albert’s commitment to the Auburn School Department began well before she joined the School Committee as an at-large member in 2022. She served on the Edward Little High School Building Committee and brought her professional expertise as an epidemiologist to the COVID Health and Safety Committee, where she helped support informed decision making during a critical time.

That commitment continues through her ongoing service in the district. Albert serves on advisory committees focused on long-term planning, advocates for staff training and student safety, and recognizes the work of educators and staff during school committee meetings. She also supports students and families beyond the classroom by helping organize efforts such as Project Grad Night and a community food drive during a lapse in SNAP benefits.

To learn more about MEA’s Annual Awards, visit maineea.org/awards.

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.

Maine High School Students Encouraged to Enter 22nd Annual Will McDonough Sports Writing Contest

The Boston Globe is encouraging high school students across New England to showcase their storytelling and journalism skills through the 22nd Annual Will McDonough Sports Writing Contest.

The free contest is open to students in grades 9-12 residing in any New England state, including Maine. It offers students an opportunity to develop and share their nonfiction writing centered on sports. Educators, school staff, journalism advisers, English teachers, coaches, and families are encouraged to share this opportunity with students who may be interested in sports writing, journalism, storytelling, or communications.

Students may submit one original nonfiction entry of up to 700 words. Entries may be written in either first person or third person and must have sports as a central element. Submissions can be newly written or previously published works created after August 15, 2025.

Contest organizers note that all work must be wholly created by the student and will be evaluated based on the strength of the writing, reporting, use of journalism practices, and the ability to engage readers.

The contest honors Will McDonough, a legendary sportswriter best known for his decades spent covering professional sports in New England. McDonough was widely respected for his reporting, storytelling, and commitment to journalistic excellence.

Contest Guidelines

To participate, students must:

Be enrolled in grades 9-12 as of May 1, 2026
Reside in Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, or Vermont
Submit one nonfiction sports-related essay
Keep submissions to 700 words or fewer
Submit their entry by May 27, 2026

How to Enter

Students must complete two steps before the May 27, 2026, deadline:

Have an adult (18+) complete the entry form, which can be found here.
Email their submission to McDonoughContest@globe.com.

For official contest rules and additional information, please click here. Judging will conclude on June 8, 2026, and winners will be announced on June 9, 2026.

Day Mountain Regional Middle School Students Spotlight Maine Wildlife and Conservation in New Podcast

At Day Mountain Regional Middle School (DMRMS) in MSAD 58, learning often reaches far beyond the classroom walls. The latest example comes from the DMRMS Environmentalist Club, where students have launched the first episodes of their new “Wild and Wonderful Podcast.”

What began as a small club project has quickly grown into something more—a platform for curiosity, community storytelling, and a deep appreciation for Maine’s natural world.

Under the thoughtful guidance of advisor Jami Badershall, sixth graders Lila Campbell and Chloe Ames stepped behind the microphone for Episode 1, sitting down with Roger Lambert, a Master Maine Guide and lifelong storyteller. Their conversation explored how climate change is affecting local animal populations and traced Lambert’s decades-long navigation of Maine’s woods and waters. Badershall intentionally chose Lambert as the club’s first guest; as a seasoned guide and natural storyteller, he could carry the conversation, if needed, and help build the students’ confidence. Badershall also wanted someone who has witnessed long-term changes in Maine’s wilderness—climate-related and otherwise—and could reflect thoughtfully on those shifts. The result was a rich, engaging discussion that showcased both Lambert’s experience and the students’ thoughtful preparation.

In Episode 2, the students welcomed Liz Latti, Director of Fisheries and Hatcheries at the Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife. Campbell and Ames asked about Latti’s career path, her leadership role, and the challenges that Maine’s fisheries are currently facing—particularly the impact of recent droughts on fish populations. The conversation highlighted not only wildlife stewardship but also the growing interest among our students in science, conservation, and public service.

The podcast was originally intended to be just one small piece of the Environmentalist Club. After the first interview, however, the students were hooked. They wanted to do more, and they have since done a fabulous job. Their interview subjects consistently leave impressed by their preparation, poise, and curiosity.

Badershall’s background in journalism has been an asset. She helps students craft thoughtful, open-ended questions, while encouraging them to listen closely and adapt in the moment. Although the students prepare a list of questions before each episode, it has been exciting for Badershall to watch them adjust naturally as conversations unfold. Perhaps most impressive is their confidence; they are not intimidated by the accomplished adults sitting across from them.

For Ames, the experience has been transformative.

“It has given me a lot to think about for careers that involve the outdoors,” she shared. “There are so many options and different fields you can go into. We also talk a lot about the changes they have seen in our wildlife and the environment around them. I used to want to be a game warden, but now I want to be an environmental journalist and educate other people about climate change and how it affects us.”

Ames also reflected on her personal growth.

“I’ve gotten better at asking questions, and it has helped me build my confidence. I used to not like to speak up like that, but now it’s fun.”

The “Wild and Wonderful Podcast” is a powerful reminder of what happens when students are given a platform to explore their interests, connect with community experts, and ask meaningful questions about the world around them. DMRMS students are proving that learning can indeed be wild and wonderful—and their voices are well worth listening to.

This story was submitted by MSAD 58. To submit a good news story to the Maine DOE, please fill out the good news submission form.

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.

PRIORITY NOTICE: Implementation of Maine’s Bell-to-Bell Personal Electronic Device Policy

The following information is intended to support school administrative units (SAUs) in preparing for the implementation of a new law requiring that school boards adopt and implement a policy “prohibiting student use of personal electronic devices for the duration of the school day, from starting bell to dismissal bell” by August 1, 2026.

The following language is in Part GG of the Supplemental Budget and replaces the existing language in statute, which required a policy related to the use of personal electronic devices:

“By August 1, 2026, a school board shall adopt and implement a policy prohibiting student use of personal electronic devices for the duration of the school day, from starting bell to dismissal bell. The policy must restrict student use of cellular telephones and other personal electronic devices with Internet or cellular network capabilities. The Department of Education, in coordination with the Maine School Management Association or a successor organization and other relevant stakeholders, shall make available a model policy for school boards. The model policy must include exceptions for compliance with a student’s individualized education program, a documented accommodation under Section 504 of the federal Rehabilitation Act of 1973, 29 United States Code, Section 794 (2026) regarding an individual student, the delivery of prescribed medical care as outlined in a student’s individualized health care plan and language support services for a student who is an emergent English language learner when no other translation option is available.”

Required Action
All school boards must adopt a compliant local policy no later than August 1, 2026.

Scope of the Law
The law applies to:

Cell phones
Smartwatches
Other personal electronic devices with internet or cellular network capabilities

The legislation establishes a “bell-to-bell” expectation, meaning student use of these devices must be prohibited for the duration of the school day.

Model Policy Available
The Maine Department of Education (DOE) and Maine School Management Association (MSMA) collaborated on a model policy, which is available here: Model Policy JICJ – Cell Phones and Other Personal Electronic Devices in Schools.

Required Exceptions
Local policies must include exceptions for:

A student’s Individualized Education Program (IEP)
Documented Section 504 accommodations
Medical care needs
Translation needs when no other option is available

Additional exceptions may be authorized in emergency situations, consistent with local health and safety procedures.

Maine DOE Implementation Guidance
The Maine DOE has developed Implementation Guidance intended to support thoughtful, student-centered implementation of bell-to-bell policies. The guidance emphasizes that while personal electronic device use is being prohibited, technology remains an important component of modern teaching and learning.

The guidance includes recommendations related to:

Intentional and instructional use of school-managed technology
Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) considerations
Equity and access for all learners
Restorative and educational approaches to implementation and discipline
Communication, staff training, and implementation planning

The guidance encourages SAUs to distinguish between prohibited personal electronic device use and purposeful instructional technology use, while continuing to support digital literacy, accessibility, and technology-rich learning environments.

Restorative and Educational Approaches
The Maine DOE encourages SAUs to approach implementation through clear expectations, consistent routines, and restorative practices that prioritize instruction, reflection, and relationship-centered responses to policy violations whenever possible.

Recommended practices include:

Explicitly teaching expectations and routines
Progressive and educational responses to violations
Restorative conversations and reflection
Family engagement and collaborative problem-solving

Funding Support
The Maine DOE will provide funding for SAUs to support costs associated with prohibiting the use of personal electronic devices during the school day. A total of $350,000 has been allocated by the Maine Legislature for this initiative.

Funds will be distributed to SAUs that operate schools serving grades 6 through 12, based on October 1, 2025, attending enrollment counts (linked here). Distribution of funds to those SAUs will occur after the enactment of the Supplemental Budget on July 29, 2026. Funds should be recorded in each SAU as Revenue Code 3290 Miscellaneous State Receipt with a fund code in the range of 2200 – 2214 – Special Revenue Fund – State Grants.

Additional Support Opportunities
To support implementation efforts statewide, the Maine DOE and Maine Center for Disease Control and Prevention will offer implementation support opportunities throughout the summer and fall. Additional information regarding webinars, technical assistance, and implementation resources will be shared in the coming weeks.

Questions
Questions regarding implementation may be directed to Maine DOE Learning Through Technology team coordinator Emma-Marie Banks at emma-marie.banks@maine.gov. Additional guidance and resources will continue to be shared on the Maine DOE website.

Maine Loves Public Schools Announces Season 2 of “Learning from Maine”

Three new episodes air Thursdays at 8:30 PM on Maine Public Television beginning May 21st — with four more stories coming this fall

Should all Maine towns have universal pre-K access? Is the best way to keep teenagers in school by getting them working in their communities? Can Generative AI be used in our schools ethically?

These and other vital questions will be featured in the second season of Learning from Maine, a new video series about what’s happening and what’s possible in Maine public schools. A co-production between Maine Loves Public Schools and Maine Public, this limited series explores the innovations and triumphs in classrooms across Maine. All episodes will be available to watch at MaineLovesPublicSchools.org following their broadcast on Maine Public Television.

“Learning from Maine” seeks to share what is working in Maine’s public schools and to give educators, parents, and state leaders a window into promising ideas that can spread to other districts. Hosted by pioneering Maine educator Derek Pierce, each episode goes inside a Maine school to find educators, students, and communities doing something extraordinary to address issues from early childhood education and student literacy to boosting graduation rates and preparing Maine’s future workforce.

Watch the Learning from Maine Season 2 Trailer Here

“It’s been a joy and an honor to see what teachers and students are doing around the state,” Pierce said. “I can’t wait to share these stories with everyone who cares about Maine’s public schools.”

“We are very excited to help bring this series to our audience,” noted Susan Tran, Maine Public’s Chief Programming Officer. “Sharing these stories of innovation in Maine classrooms aligns with Maine Public’s educational mission and our ongoing efforts to provide opportunities for lifelong learning.”

SEASON 2 EPISODES:

Episode 1 (May 21) Margaret Chase Smith Community School, Skowhegan: How a community built the first school in the country where students can enroll as early as 6 weeks old and remain there through elementary school.
Episode 2 (May 28) Mt. Desert Island High School: How one school is teaching students to explore the promise of artificial intelligence—while grappling honestly with its dangers.
Episode 3 (June 4) Brewer High School: How connecting students to real-world careers through Extended Learning Opportunities has led to higher graduation rates and fewer dropouts.

Four more “Learning from Maine” stories will be released this fall. All episodes are free to watch at MaineLovesPublicSchools.org and on the MLPS YouTube channel, and can also be viewed on demand on Maine Public’s website. You can sign up for updates on “Learning from Maine” at this link.

About Maine Loves Public Schools: Maine Loves Public Schools (MLPS) is a statewide organization of educational organizations with a goal of promoting stories from within Maine classrooms. Supported by a broad coalition of educators, from superintendents and principals to school board members and CTE directors, MLPS has engaged hundreds of “Ambassadors” across the state over the past three years. See a full list of supporting organizations at this link.

About Maine Public: Maine Public is Maine’s premier, independent media resource, dedicated to creating exceptional opportunities for the communities it serves to engage with critical issues, compelling stories, and quality entertainment. Maine Public is renowned for creating award-winning programs, as well as airing content from PBS, NPR, and other independent producers. Formed in 1992, Maine Public is an independently owned and operated nonprofit organization with office and studio locations in Bangor, Augusta, Lewiston, and Portland, Maine. For more information, visit mainepublic.org

Maine DOE Update – May 15, 2026

From the Maine Department of Education

News & Updates

Maine DOE, Educate Maine Celebrate 2026 County Teachers of the Year

The State of Maine is celebrating its newest cohort of County Teachers of the Year. On Friday, May 15, 2026, at the Hall of Flags in the Maine State House, the Maine Department of Education (DOE), in partnership with Educate Maine, announced the 16 teachers, representing every county in the state, who were selected for this honor. | More

Maine Loves Public Schools Announces Season 2 of “Learning from Maine”

Should all Maine towns have universal pre-K access? Is the best way to keep teenagers in school by getting them working in their communities? Can Generative AI be used in our schools ethically? Three new episodes of “Learning from Maine” air Thursdays at 8:30 PM on Maine Public Television beginning May 21st — with four more stories coming this fall | More

Extended Learning Opportunities: Student Success on Display at the Hall of Flags

The Hall of Flags at the Maine State House was alight with energy on April 30, 2026, as students, educators, and business leaders came together from across the state to celebrate the impact of Extended Learning Opportunities (ELOs). From one side of the hall to the other, the space was filled with students presenting their ELOs, professionals sharing their knowledge, and attendees networking with others who are similarly passionate about expanding hands-on, career-connected education in Maine. | More

Maine Schools Sharing Success Stories

Dirigo Program at Sumner Memorial High School Creates Flexible Pathways for Student Success

Windham High School has launched a hands-on, career-connected learning initiative called “Student Exploratory Adventures” (SEA), made possible through funding from the Maine Community Coordinators Collaborative’s (C3) Sunshine Mini-Grant Program. | More

Student-Led ‘Interact Club’ Gains Momentum at Sanford High School

Students from Sanford High School rang bells outside stores during the holidays, served Thanksgiving dinner to veterans, and read to elementary students—all as part of a brand-new service club making waves in its first year. | More

Submit good news to the Maine Department of Education here.

Professional Learning/Training Opportunities

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

Career/Project Opportunities:

Find education-related jobs in Maine.

MEDIA RELEASE: Maine DOE, Educate Maine Celebrate 2026 County Teachers of the Year

In 2026, hundreds of people from school communities across the state nominated more than 500 educators for the Maine Teacher of the Year program.

AUGUSTA, Maine—The State of Maine is celebrating its newest cohort of County Teachers of the Year. On Friday, May 15, 2026, at the Hall of Flags in the Maine State House, the Maine Department of Education (DOE), in partnership with Educate Maine, announced the 16 teachers, representing every county in the state, who were selected for this honor.

In 2026, hundreds of people from school communities across the state—including students, parents, colleagues, and administrators—nominated more than 500 educators for the Maine Teacher of the Year program. Local panels of teachers, principals, business leaders, and community members then chose these 16 educators from that pool. The members of the 2026 Maine County Teachers of the Year cohort represent a wide range of expertise. They work in pre-K through high school classrooms, have been teaching for between seven and 31 years, and specialize in areas such as chemistry, math, English, alternative education, Spanish, visual arts, digital media, and more.

The Maine County Teachers of the Year act as ambassadors for the teaching profession, advocating for the quality education of all Maine students and elevating the thousands of outstanding educators statewide. For example, Maine’s 2025 County Teacher of the Year cohort termed the phrase, “Great schools make great communities; great communities make great schools,” to help encourage the reciprocity of community and public education. The 2024 cohort established a survey to assess the mentorship needs of teachers across the state, and the 2023 cohort created the “Love Maine Schools” campaign.

On Friday, Maine Education Commissioner Pender Makin joined Educate Maine Executive Director Jason Judd, 2026 Maine State Teacher of the Year Julia Edwards, Maine State Board of Education representatives, and others to announce and honor the 2026 Maine County Teachers of the Year. Governor Janet Mills also extended her congratulations to the new cohort.

“As the daughter of a long-time public school teacher, and as someone who raised five children who attended public schools in Maine, I know the profound impact that a teacher can have on a child’s life,” Governor Mills said. “These 16 outstanding teachers, one from each county, represent the very best of Maine educators working to prepare students for bright futures here in our state.”

“The Maine Teacher of the Year program provides an important opportunity to recognize the thousands of outstanding teachers statewide, whose dedication, hard work, and selflessness often go unnoticed,” Commissioner Makin said. “The Maine Department of Education looks forward to supporting the 2026 Maine County Teachers of the Year throughout their year of recognition and service.”

“We are so proud to announce the 2026 Maine County Teachers of the Year,” Jason Judd, Ed.D., Executive Director of Educate Maine, said. “These talented educators have an exciting year ahead, during which they will serve as advocates for learners and educators across the state. We look forward to supporting and collaborating with them.”

This summer, the 2026 Maine County Teachers of the Year will embark on the intensive Maine State Teacher of the Year selection process. The 2027 Maine State Teacher of the Year will be announced in the fall.

Androscoggin:
Abigail Reuscher
Chemistry and Forensic Science Teacher
Lewiston High School, Lewiston Public Schools

Aroostook:
Kathy Theriault
Mathematics Teacher
Wisdom Middle/High School, MSAD 33

Cumberland:
Adrianne Shetenhelm
English and Alternative Education Teacher
Windham High School, RSU 14

Franklin:
Casey McMullen
4th Grade Teacher
Phillips Elementary School, MSAD 58

Hancock:
Michael Brzezowski
Technology Integration Teacher
Pemetic Elementary School, MDIRSS – AOS 91

Kennebec:
Gretchen Livingston
Spanish Teacher
Cony Middle and High School, Augusta Schools

Knox: Judith Masseur English and Global Studies Teacher Camden Hills Regional High School, Five Town CSD

Knox:
Judith Masseur
English, Global Studies, and AP Research Teacher
Camden Hills Regional High School, Five Town CSD

Lincoln:
Katherine Race
5th Grade Teacher
Edgecomb Eddy School, AOS 98

Oxford:
Gina Welch
Pre-K Teacher
Crescent Park Elementary School, MSAD 44

Penobscot:
Marcy Soucy
4th and 5th Grade Math and Reading Teacher
Fairmount School, Bangor School Department

Piscataquis:
Martha Ladd
Visual Arts Teacher
Foxcroft Academy, RSU 68

Sagadahoc:
Hilary Martin
English Teacher
Mt. Ararat High School, MSAD 75

Somerset: Jeremy Bourque Digital Media Instructor Skowhegan Area High School, MSAD/RSU 54

Somerset:
Jeremy Bourque
Digital Media Instructor
Somerset Career and Technical Center, MSAD/RSU 54

Waldo:
Rachel Norgang
2nd and 3rd Grade Teacher
Monroe Elementary School, RSU 3

Washington: Josie James 4-8 Grade ELA and Social Studies Teacher Alexander Elementary School, AOS 77

Washington:
Josie James
4th-8th Grade ELA and Social Studies Teacher
Alexander Elementary School, AOS 77

York:
Allison Mundee
Pre-K Teacher
H. B. Emery Jr. Memorial School, MSAD 6

The Maine DOE’s Teacher of the Year Program is administered through a collaborative partnership with Educate Maine. To learn more about the Maine Teacher of the Year Program, click here.