Board Responsibilities

The Maine State Board of Education is authorized to act in an advisory capacity to the Commissioner of Education in matters concerning State Laws relating to education. In addition, the Board is delegated specific powers to make recommendations to the Legislature for the efficient conduct of the public schools; to approve the formation of School Administrative Districts; to establish requirements for approval and accreditation of elementary and secondary schools; to grant permission for administrative units to enter into agreements for cooperative educational purposes; to act upon articles of agreement for creation of an Interstate School District; to develop and adopt a plan for the establishment of applied technical centers; to approve standards for school construction; to approve school construction projects for State aid; to approve the formation of community school districts; to obtain information regarding applications for granting degrees and make recommendations to the Legislature.

The Maine State Board of Education also serves as the State agency for administering Carl Perkins Federal funds; to serve as an appeals board for unclassified personnel; and to establish the certification standards for teachers and other educational personnel.

In addition to fulfilling its statutory obligations, the State Board continues to lead Maine's efforts to establish results-based initial teacher certification program; plays a leadership role in policy development and implementation of technology; and supports the recognition of exemplary teaching and learning opportunities through "Making the Grade Awards" and the Maine Teacher of the Year Program. The board is also engaged in a major school construction reform initiative that will result in new and improved processes for approving school construction and renovation.

State Board of Education Information

Board Responsibilities