AUGUSTA - A proposal from Rep. Rebecca Millett, D-Cape Elizabeth, to support students who experienced significant education interruptions as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic was signed into law Tuesday by Gov. Janet Mills.
For students who experienced a significant disruption in their education due to the COVID-19 pandemic and did not meet their school's graduation requirements, LD 325 will allow them to apply for a Maine Department of Education diploma if they met the states requirements of graduation. The legislation was created in collaboration between Millett, the department and the Alternative Education Association.
"The pandemic's toll on our students extends beyond academic to social/emotional, mental wellbeing as well as housing instability and hunger," said Millett. "As we know, each student's challenges are unique and will require our education community to offer multiple avenues for impactful remediation and support. I am grateful for Gov. Mills' support, as this new law adds an additional tool to our toolbox and will be especially important for those that simply cannot meet their local schools diploma requirements despite best efforts of all involved."
The legislation includes a sunset clause to account for future fourth-year secondary students who experienced education interruption due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
The measure will go into effect 90 days after the Legislature adjourns next month.
Millett is serving her first term in the Maine House and represents District 30, part of Cape Elizabeth. She sits on the Education and Cultural Affairs Committee. Prior to representing House District 30, Millett served eight years in the State Senate, representing District 29, which includes South Portland, Cape Elizabeth and part of Scarborough.
Contact:
Jackie Merrill [Millett], c. 812-1111