This week has been full of opportunities for me to witness the unwavering commitment of Maine educators to improving our schools and making sure all of our students are succeeding in their learning.

On Monday, I had the honor of presenting a $25,000 check from the Milken Family Foundation to Morgan Cuthbert, a deserving middle-school teacher in Yarmouth who has found the secret to motivating his math and science students. As a result of Morgan’s hard work, his students are excited to learn about topics ranging from the circulatory system to invasive species.

On Tuesday, I spoke with curriculum leaders from Maine schools during their conference in Freeport, which focused on a school system design that puts student — rather than administrative — needs at the center of everything we do.

And today and tomorrow, I plan to spend some time at the fall conference of the Maine School Management Association, whose members plan to focus on standards-based learning, closer integration of career and technical education with all other academics, and better preparation and more constructive evaluations for our educators — all in support of improved student learning.

Continue reading “Commissioner’s Update – Oct. 27, 2011” →