Maine Education Association

10/29/2026

Michael Grillo, with the Associated Faculty of the University of Maine System (AFUM), said the event was organized by the university’s unions to bring together groups that could be directly impacted by the cuts.

He wants university administrators to rethink the cuts and work toward building a more sustainable financial model to prevent potential deficits in the coming years.

“If we keep playing this game, we end up with a very small university that can never meet enrollment," he said.

The event Monday night allowed people a venue to air their frustrations about proposed cuts and the lack of information coming from university administrators.

10/27/2026

“We want there to be a parallel review with administration costs versus cutting the lowest paid employees, faculty and staff. We need to make sure that any cuts that are made aren’t impacting students. My hope is to really increase state appropriations and really elect the right legislators who are pro-public education,” said Sara Abronze, President of Universities of Maine Professional Staff Association.

Unions, students and legislators spoke out against the staff layoffs. Speakers said every professor, counselor and advisor makes a difference in the lives of students, and that removing them would have a negative impact on the school.

10/27/2026

Two MEA members from different political backgrounds share why member involvement matters, what they look for in candidates, and how finding common ground helps strengthen public education.

Read more about how MEA members play a key role in reviewing candidates and determining who earns the Association’s endorsement, link in the comments!

10/23/2026

From apple c***r pressing and ice fishing days to the Woodside Maple Syrup Project, he gives students hands-on opportunities to connect with Maine’s agricultural and outdoor traditions.

“But the volunteers show up every year. Parents, families, community members, and everybody wants to be involved.”

Read more about the lasting impact of "Mr. Mike" in the latest issue of the Maine Educator.

10/22/2026

"When I see classes outside reading, making art, or learning in those outdoor classrooms, that’s what makes it all worth it. Thee trail gives students a chance to explore, ask questions, and learn about nature firsthand," said Mike Langley.

Read more about the lasting impact of "Mr. Mike" in the latest edition of the Maine Educator.

10/20/2026

Healthy, homemade and locally raised meals are the heart of a school lunch initiative in Lewiston, Auburn and Lisbon. Pictured in the article is MEA member Cindy Baril (Auburn EA).

READ MORE:

Healthy, homemade and locally raised meals are the heart of a school lunch initiative in Lewiston, Auburn and Lisbon, with students calling the shots.

10/20/2026

Some of the most meaningful recognition doesn't come from awards.

For Mike Langley, it came when graduating seniors returned to Woodside Elementary in their caps and gowns. One interaction with a former student stood out as a powerful reminder of the lasting impact educators can have.

Read the full story of "Mr. Mike" in the latest issue of the Maine Educator magazine, click the link in the comments!

10/18/2026

For many students, "Mr. Mike" is a mentor, outdoor educator, coach, and trusted adult who finds every opportunity to help children learn and grow.

Read more about our 2026 ESP of the year, Mike Langley in our latest Maine Educator magazine issue.

https://maineea.org/maineeducatoronline/the-lasting-impact-of-woodsides-mr-mike/

Maine DOE

10/12/2026

The State of Maine celebrates Indigenous Peoples’ Day each October. Maine is the ancestorial home of the Penobscot Nation, Passamaquoddy Tribe, Mi’kmaq Nation, Abenaki, and Houlton Band of Maliseet Indians—collectively known as the Wabanaki, “People of the Dawnland.” The Wabankai nations have endured as sovereign and self-determining people with distinct languages, cultures, governments, and economic structures.

We encourage educators to integrate Wabanaki studies into the existing curricula. Below we have compiled a list of teaching resources for you to help you honor the Wabanaki people that have called Maine home for thousands of years.

Learn More: https://maineea.org/news/celebrating-indigenous-peoples-day/

10/08/2026

Educators are making a difference far beyond the classroom.

MEA members Rachel Hovel and Julia Daly (AFUM) are leading a University of Maine Farmington project to expand snow monitoring sites across western Maine, helping researchers and communities better understand changing weather and water conditions.

Read more:

UMF researchers are expanding snowpack monitoring in western Maine to improve flood forecasting, study changing winters and fill gaps in high-elevation weather data.