The Maine State Board of Education acts in an advisory capacity to the Commissioner of Education in matters concerning state education laws and makes education policy recommendations to the legislative and executive branches of state government.
The Board's responsibilities under Maine law also include: overseeing approval of school construction projects for receipt of state funds; administering federal funds awarded to Maine for career and technical education; establishing standards for teacher certification; approving educator preparation programs; and recommending institutions of higher education for degree-granting authority.
While the State Board receives some staff support from the Maine Department of Education, it is an independent body.
Announcements & Initiatives
Higher Education - Volunteers Requested: Review Panel Sign-Up: The Maine State Board of Education participates in the approval and review process for educator preparation programs. As part of this process, we seek community volunteers.
For more information, please contact Michael Perry (michael.t.perry@maine.gov) or Fern Desjardins (fern.desjardins8@gmail.com)
Mission & Vision
The Maine State Board of Education has adopted the following statements to articulate its mission and vision.
Mission Statement: The mission of the Maine State Board of Education is to provide leadership and to support policy development that promotes equitable access to high-quality educational opportunities for all students in safe, healthy, and inclusive school environments.
Vision Statement: The vision of the Maine State Board of Education is that all students will receive a high-quality education leading to graduation with the skills, knowledge, and principles to be prepared for future learning, careers, and life.
Strategic Plan: The Maine State Board of Education approved a revised strategic plan on December 15, 2021, that articulates the Board's guiding principles, values and goals for 2022 to 2026.
Membership & Organization
The Maine State Board of Education consists of nine members appointed by the Governor along with two nonvoting student members appointed by the Governor.
The Board is organized into four committees that conduct various aspects of the Board's business. Check out each committee page for meeting dates, agendas, and minutes. The Maine State Board of Education recently added an ad hoc committee - the Student Transfers Ad Hoc Committee. Check out the meeting dates, agendas, and minutes.
Meetings
The Maine State Board of Education generally meets monthly at the Cross State Office Building in Augusta.
Reports
The Maine State Board of Education is occasionally tasked with producing reports by the Legislative Committee on Education and Cultural Affairs. These reports include:
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Report on Certification (2024): Report as per L.D. 485, Resolve, 2023, Chapter 54
Newly Proposed Rules and Rule Changes
Chapter 115
For information or questions about rulemaking, contact Laura Cyr (laura.cyr@maine.gov).
- Rule Title: The Credentialing of Education Personnel
- Filing Agency: This is a rule of the State Board of Education
- DOE Priority Notice: Public Feedback for Ch. 115
- Current Rule Language:
- Chapter 115, Part 1: Rule Chapter 115 - Part 1
- Chapter 115, Part 2: Rule Chapter 115 - Part 2
This information will be updated periodically through the Rulemaking Process
Rules Finalized Within the Past 12 Months
Chapter 61
- Rule Title: State Board of Education Rules for Major Capital School Construction Projects
- Filing Agency: This is a rule of the State Board of Education
- Effective Date of Rule: June 12, 2024
- Final Adoption of Rule Chapter 61: Rule Chapter 61