Seeking Recommendations for the 2011 Maine Educator Talent Pool

INFORMATIONAL LETTER: 67
POLICY CODE: AEB

TO: Superintendents of Schools
FROM: Angela Faherty, Ph.D., Commissioner of Education
DATE: February 8, 2011
RE: Seeking Recommendations for the 2011 Maine Educator Talent Pool

Those named to the Maine Educator Talent Pool are teachers and principals who may be considered for membership on advisory boards and task forces, as well as candidates for special recognition programs. Your recommendations will identify educators who will be of great value to your community and State, and who may also ultimately receive prestigious recognition.

We are very fortunate to have a rich base of veteran educators represented in our current talent pool. They have been and continue to be a valuable resource in our State efforts. What is particularly lacking at this time is representation from educators relatively new to the profession who demonstrate unusual instructional and leadership ability. Such persons exhibit strong potential for professional leadership and an inspiring presence that influences students, colleagues, and community.

Do you know a relatively new educator that is illustrative not only of our State’s but also the nation’s best? Whose lessons provide models for others? Who has distinguished him/herself above and beyond established top-quality professionals in many of our schools? A minimum of five years in education is a must. Candidates are building-level personnel. They are typically classroom teachers as opposed to specialists and are recognized by peers and supervisors as unique in their growth. Occasionally a principal or specialist is considered. We are particularly interested this year in educators who work with students in grades 6-12. Previous recognition is not required. In fact, of special interest are educators who are outstanding, but have not received other recognition.

Please provide CONFIDENTIAL, succinct, and specific information regarding one to three candidates on the linked recommendation form. All questions must be answered, preferably typewritten. Please include a one-page letter with this form that addresses how the candidate meets the criteria mentioned in this letter, and also include a resume from their personnel file. We ask that you keep this recommendation confidential and do not share it with the individual. I urge you to take the time to recommend candidates. If necessary, please assign the request to an associate. Complete information must be sent by April 29, 2011 to:

Jennifer Pooler
Maine Department of Education
23 State House Station
Augusta, ME 04333-0023

The interactive 2011 Maine Educator Talent Pool Recommendation Form is located at www.maine.gov/education/awards/recform.pdf . Your cooperation and assistance is greatly appreciated.