The Maine Department of Education recognizes that social studies is an integral part of a comprehensive education preparing learners for college, careers and civic life. Through the study of each of the four social studies disciplines—civics and government, economics, geography, and history—students are provided with opportunities to acquire and apply knowledge and skills in a variety of authentic contexts. Social studies teaches students not what to think, but how to think. The knowledge, skills and dispositions gained through social studies allow students to make informed decisions and participate fully in civic life. Engagement in social studies provides students with the opportunity to learn about their world and become active and involved members of their local and global communities.
As part of the Maine DOE's commitment to supporting schools in the delivery of effective K-12 social studies instructional programs, this site offers teachers, administrators, nonprofits, higher education faculty, parents and community members with a broad range of resources reflective of Maine’s learning standards.
The State of Maine recently completed a mandatory Social Studies review process. Check out the new Standards and Instruction page to see the revised standards and supporting materials.
- During the revision process, effort was given to strengthen the teaching of Maine Native Americans. There is a Maine Department of Education resource page related to teaching about Maine Native Americans.
- During the revision process, effort was given to emphasize the role of teaching Personal Finance. In order to support teachers and districts in teaching about Personal Finance, the Maine Department of Education in partnership with the Maine Jump$tart Coalition, has created a financial education resource, titled the Maine Financial Literacy Framework & Resource Guide. The Maine Department of Education also maintains a web page devoted to resources and organizations that support the teaching of financial literacy.