Maine Educator Spring 2024

Spring 2024 | maineea.org

2024

MAINE TEACHER OF THE YEAR

Joshua Chard 2023-2024 MEA Salary Guide Page 20

Spring 2024

CONTENTS

VOLUME 84, NUMBER 3

COVER

FEATURES

Maine Teacher of the Year 8 Meet the 2024 Maine Teacher of the Year - Joshua Chard

Building Inclusive Schools

9 The Success Story of Morse High School's Unified Program

Lobby Day 2024 Spring 2024 | maineea.org

18 MEA members advocated for higher pay for teachers and all school support staff

MEA Salary Guide 2023-2024

2024

MAINE TEACHER OF THE YEAR

Joshua Chard

20 The MEA maintains a salary database to help members understand how educators are paid across Maine.

Editorial Staff Managing Editor Rachelle Bristol Editor Samantha Burdick Layout Design Shawn Berry

Leadership President Grace Leavitt Vice President Jesse Hargrove Treasurer Beth French NEA Director Rebecca Cole

Board of Directors District A: Pamela Kinsey District B: Kristen Braun District C: Susan Szava-Kovats District D: Cedena McAvoy District E: Thresa Mitchell District F: Janice Murphy District G: Valerie Pinkham District H: Dennis Boyd District I: Evelyn Atwood District J: Vacant District K: Tom Walsh District L: Rebecca Manchester District M: Chris Jones District O: Lisa Leduc District P: Lisa Henderson District R: Kay Grindall District ESP: Jay Nicholson Student: Zach Wentworth Maine Educator (ISSN #1069-1235) is published by: Maine Education Association 35 Community Drive, Augusta, ME 04330-8005 Phone: 207-622-5866 Fax: 207-888-2070

9 SPECIAL SELECTIONS MEA Updates 5 A guide for all of the latest offerings from MEA

POSTMASTER: send address changes to:

Celebrate Diverse Books 7 Celebrate a nation of diverse readers with these recommended books!

Maine Educator 35 Community Drive, Augusta, Maine 04330-8005 Non-Profit US Postage paid at Augusta, Maine and additional mailing offices.

MEA Benefits Trust 11 Easier access to mental health services MEA Pre-Retirement Seminars 13 2024-2025 Schedule released for upcoming seminars Local Round-Up 17 Check out latest local contract wins 96th MEA Representative Assembly 26 At the 96th annual RA members will discuss the following proposals seen on the next several pages.

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30 PERSPECTIVES - The Importance of Shared Governance DEPARTMENTS 3 4 6 11 31

MEA PRESIDENT'S MESSAGE FROM THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR COOK'S CORNER MEA BENEFITS TRUST EDITOR'S NOTE

Shawn Berry 35 Community Drive, Augusta, ME 04330 207-622-5866

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President's Letter - Spring 2024 G ra ce Leavitt

Amazed Grace

I imagine you’re familiar with the song, “Amazing Grace”? Well, for me, the title should be “Amazed Grace,” because it’s all of you who amaze me!

Over the last few weeks, I had more opportunities than usual to meet with and spend time with many more of our members—and I have loved every minute!

It was so uplifting to see members, both active and retired, at our Lobby Day over the school break in February. Educators came to the State House to speak with legislators about what is happening in their schools as well as the need to prioritize raising wages for support staff and salaries for teachers to help address the ongoing educator shortage. So many districts across our state have continued to be unable to hire qualified staff to fill the many vacant positions—positions that are needed to provide the supports our students need. Please keep talking with your legislators about what you are experiencing—tell them like it is! And join us on our next Lobby Day! Your voice matters so much to be sure the people making decisions that affect you and students understand your perspectives and experiences.

At area meetings held by our UniServ

Directors for local leaders I had the chance to hear about the work you are doing to represent and advocate for colleagues as well as push at the negotiating table to bargain better agreements that will help retain the great educators we have and attract more to the profession. Hearing about the efforts locals are making to organize around issues and stand strong is inspiring, to say the least. I urge everyone to help out by stepping up in their local in any way you can!

I recently attended the conference held by the Educators for a Multilingual Maine (EMME). It was an amazing event, planned, organized, and run by EMME leaders in their “spare” time, as so many conferences of our academic affiliates are.

The presenters, our colleagues, shared their knowledge and expertise. It was energizing to hear about and be reminded of the incredible work educators are doing, especially as we strive to meet the needs of our diverse student population.

MEA Committees met again in March.

There were great discussions in each meeting, showing the commitment of our members to the Association as well as their dedication to fellow educators and the profession itself, taking time on a Saturday to come together. (If you are interested in adding your voice to this work, be sure to check out the

information about MEA committees on our website!)

The Maine Art Education Association again sponsored Youth Art Month. At the reception and exhibition that we were glad to host again here at MEA headquarters, I got to speak with teachers who took time on a Sunday to meet the families of the students whose beautifully creative work is on display. (Take time to come enjoy it when you’re nearby!)

Other recent opportunities I had to be amazed by members: the Educators for Gun Safety group continues to discuss ways to help make our schools and campuses safer; I had the chance to touch base with members at an Associated Faculties of the Universities of Maine (AFUM) Executive Board meeting; I checked in with some of our retirees on the MEA Retired Executive Board who met here recently; and I got to chat with members who serve on the MEA Benefits Trust before their monthly meeting.

These are just a few more examples of how educators go above and beyond.

I realize there is much more happening that I have missed here—music festivals, one-act plays, sports practices and events, all sorts of student clubs and activities that members support--all happening for our students because of YOUR efforts.

You do so much for our students, for colleagues, for our communities, and for our state. YOU are AMAZING! The best part of this position that I am both humbled and honored to hold is talking with you and hearing about all the things you do that help fulfill the MEA vision of “Great public schools for every Maine student.”

Thank you!

In Unity, Grace

Grace Leavitt MEA President 207-622-5866 x2200 MAINEEA.ORG

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From MEA's Executive Director Rach e lle Bris to l

A Look Inside

fulfilling the vision of the board in these three areas.

As I write this, the sun is shining, and it is a pleasant day in March, reminding me that spring is just around the corner. The days are getting longer and progressively warmer. Flowers are starting to flirt with popping up and bringing their promise of brightness and cheer.

I love spring. Spring is a time to take stock, refresh and make changes where needed. A time to make the most out of opportunities.

I try and do a little of that every year. I am moving this year into a new place for me and the act of going through one’s belongings accumulated over the years can be frightening. Why oh why did I ever keep the takeout cafeteria trays from my BGSU college years? Why do I still have file folders full of old teaching materials?

Why do I still have the key to a house I no longer own, in a state I have not lived in in over 10 years? Clearly, I am either very nostalgic (which I can be), or it is time to assess, purge and make changes for the better.

And with spring on the horizon, MEA is looking inward to do some work on its second strategic foci, Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Justice (DEIJ). If you are unfamiliar with MEA’s strategic foci, the MEA Board of Directors every year discusses and adopts strategic foci to guide the work of the union for the upcoming year. This past July, the MEA Board adopted three foci – membership growth, DEIJ, and local capacity/member engagement. In partnership, the elected leaders and staff of MEA work towards 4

Maine Educator | Spring 2024

To move the work around our DEIJ goals, MEA is in the process of completing an equity audit. An equity audit is a multiple step process in which stakeholders are engaged around the organization’s commitment to DEIJ principles in all areas of our operations. After extensive research, MEA contracted with a firm, Ascension Worldwide, located out of Maryland, to partner with us to move this work. Ascension Worldwide has experience working with other NEAaffiliated unions and understands our complex structure.

The equity audit began in early 2024 when MEA provided “artifacts” to Ascension Worldwide to review.

Examples of the artifacts MEA provided include: MEA Constitution & Bylaws, MEA Board policies, MEA-MEASO collective bargaining agreement, MEA Standings Rules, MEA strategic foci, MEA organizational chart, and MEA Resolutions. These documents will be reviewed from an equity lens by Ascension Worldwide and findings included in a final report. MEA also conducted kickoff meetings with both the MEA Board and MEA Staff informing them of the equity audit purpose and process and to answer any questions individuals might have to provide transparency to the work.

To include as much stakeholder feedback as possible, MEA engaged in multiple methods to collect data on the Association from the different layers of the Association: 1. anonymous survey via email to all MEA members, 2. anonymous survey via email to all MEA staff, 3. eight separate virtual focus groups: local presidents (4), BIPOC members, MEA staff, MEA Board of Directors members, and MEA managers, and 4. individual virtual interviews.

All data collection methods were and are entirely confidential. No personally

identifiable information will be provided from Ascension Worldwide in its findings and/or report. No MEA representative was present during any focus group nor any interview. Multiple communications were sent jointly from President Leavitt and me to stakeholders to promote and encourage participation in this process.

This data collection portion of the audit is wrapping up in March after being open for months.

After collecting all the data, reviewing it, and analyzing it from an equity lens, Ascension Worldwide will provide MEA with findings and recommendations for next steps in early April. These findings will then be shared with the MEA Board and staff, and I will be sharing highlights with the delegates at the MEA RA in May. If you have not yet been a delegate to the MEA Representative Assembly (RA), I highly encourage you to consider running next year as unfortunately elections are closed for this year’s RA. In the upcoming months, MEA will be discussing the equity audit report findings and recommendations to determine what next steps may be and how to proceed.

Please stay tuned for more updates in future articles.

On behalf of MEA, I want to thank those of you who engaged with us in this work as your feedback will be crucial to gaining a better picture on how MEA is doing in this area and how successful the organization is in being an inclusive, equitable, diverse union.

And as for the takeout trays, if you know anyone who went to BGSU in Ohio circa 1987 and wants some memorabilia, please give me a shout.

All the best, Rachelle

Rachelle Bristol Executive Director 207-622-5866 x 2227

MEA

Updates

o Stay up t the h t i w e t a d and s w e n t lates from s g n i r e f f o MEA!

“My Hero Works at School” Essay Contest

The MEA is pleased to join with the Portland Sea Dogs for its annual “My Hero Works at School” essay contest. Students are encouraged to write a short essay, no more than 300 words, about their school hero. Two winners will be selected and receive tickets to a 2024 Sea Dogs game for themselves, their family and their school hero.

DEADLINE: April 26, 2024

Maine Educator Magazine Cover Contest

MEA Member Maylinda Boynton Crowned Maylinda Boynton, a teacher in Lincoln at Mattanawcook Academy and Mattanawcook Jr High School, was crowned International Service Sweetheart in the American Women of Service Pageant! The American Women of Service is a community service-based pageant focused on empowering women and fostering community service.

Congratulations Maylinda!

The Maine Educator will feature a cover designed by a Maine public school art student depicting the theme “What I Love About Maine.” Submissions can be any form of art and should be 8.5” by 11” or able to be photographed. Please advise students that the magazine title will be across the top and 2.5” high. The artist will want to make sure there is nothing important to the piece at the top, as it may be obscured by the title. Entries must include the name of the student, the school, and the submitting teacher’s name and email.

MEA Member NFHS Music Outstanding Educator Award

WHO: Grades K-4, 5-8, 9-12 – Based on entries, an indeterminate number of finalists will be selected, with one overall winner chosen from the finalists to have their work on the cover of the magazine.

DEADLINE: April 26, 2024

MEA member and Board Director for District A, Pam Kinsey, is one of 22 educators recognized nationally as the Outstanding Music Educator from the NFHS. Pam is the sole K-12 Music Teacher in Easton. Congratulations, Pam!

MEA Member Stacey Taylor Recognized with the "Guardian of the Roads" Award Stacey Taylor from South Portland was recognized with the “Guardian of the Roads” award by the Maine Interscholastic Athletic Administrator Association. Guardians of the Roads are Bus Drivers across Maine that play a significant role in the education of student athletes.

TELL US ABOUT AN AWARD YOU WON! Have you or a colleague won an award?

Please let us know so that we may feature you in the next Maine Educator magazine!

SCAN HERE TO LET US KNOW!

SCAN ME

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Cook's C O R N E R RECIPE FOR READING:

MEA FEATURED BOOKS Elementary What's Your Name?

By. Bethanie Deeney Murguia What is a name? People and animals from different backgrounds greet each other and show the meaning that lies in a name.

MEA'S BOOK GIVEAWAY Middle

By Mallory Cook We hope your school was able to celebrate Read Across America and participate in MEA’s Read Across Maine contest! These initiatives focus on motivating children and teens to read through events, partnerships, and reading resources that are made about everyone, and for everyone.

Readers who feel included, recognized, and a part of the world are engaged readers. Though March is recognized as National Reading Month, NEA provides month-by-month resources to keep the celebration going year-round. Check out NEA’s website to learn more! The site also provides recommendations on books, authors, and resources that promote diversity and inclusion. MEA has selected three of those books, and we are eager to mail them to some lucky members, who can share them with the students in their classroom or their school. You can read about those titles on the right.

To enter our contest, simply scan the code below and respond to the following prompt:

TELL US ABOUT YOUR FAVORITE BOOK CHARACTER FROM YOUR CHILDHOOD.

Healer of the Water Monster By. Brian Young

Nathan Todacheenie, an 11-year-old Diné boy who is spending the summer with his grandmother, must summon his courage to save the life of a Water Monster—and help his uncle heal.

High School Disability Visibility (Adapted for Young Adults) Edited by: Alice Wong

Essays that offer keen insight into the complex and rich disability experience, examining life’s ableism and inequality, its challenges and losses, and celebrating its wisdom, passion, and joy.

AMELIA'S NOTEBOOK

BY: MARISSA MOSS

For me it was Amelia, from the Amelia’s Notebook collection – a series of journals created by Amelia, a middle schooler documenting and doodling her way through life. An aspiring writer and sub-par doodler myself, I liked to tote around a composition book to chronicle my days in Aroostook County.

Mallory Cook Director of Training & Early Educator Engagement mcook@maineea.org

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Maine Educator | Spring 2024

Celebrate

Diverse Books

ELEMENTARY

A CROWN FOR CORINA

MIDDLE GRADE

YOU ARE HERE: CONNECTING FLIGHTS

BY: LAEKAN ZEA KEMP ILLUSTRATED: ELISA CHAVARRI

BY: ELLEN OH

Corina’s abuela encourages her to choose flowers with special meaning for her birthday corona.

In this collection of stories set in a crowded Chicago airport, events sparked by racist aggressions, cultural expectations, peer pressure, and insecurities, intertwine the journeys of twelve young Asian Americans.

YOUNG ADULT

INVISIBLE SON

BY: KIM JOHNSON

After spending six months in a juvenile detention center for a crime he did not commit, seventeen-year-old Andre returns home and tries to adapt to a pandemic world and find his missing best friend.

SCAN HERE TO SEE ADDITIONAL NEA RECOMMENDED BOOKS

SCAN ME

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MEET 2024 MAINE TEACHER OF THE YEAR

E

Joshua Chard

very morning, Joshua Chard greets his students by name in the hall outside his classroom at East End Community School in Portland, one of the most culturally diverse elementary schools north of Boston. Checking with them individually to see that each student has breakfast, assessing how they are feeling, and ensuring everyone has found a ‘just right book’ to start their day. Chard's dedication to creating a safe, rigorous and equitable environment for his diverse learners is one of the many reasons he has earned the honor of being named the 2024 Maine Teacher of the Year.

A recognition that he shares with his third-grade class, “My students started this process with me last year when they were in second grade. They see themselves as the Maine class of the year, and they feel proud of their class and proud of their school.” he says. Chard says he plans to use this platform to be a positive voice for Maine public education and to disrupt negative narratives about public schools. “While urban and rural schools have their own unique assets and challenges, ultimately what they share in common outweighs their differences,” he says. “I see this as an opportunity to represent all of Maine schools.”

“

Photo Credit: Linwood Leland

My students started this process with me last year when they were in second grade, they see themselves as the Maine class of the year, and they feel proud of their class and their school.

Chard has known he wanted to be an elementary school teacher since fifth grade. As someone who was disconnected and a struggling learner early on, it was his fifth-grade teacher, Mrs. Breau, who made a special connection that changed everything.

“Mrs. Breau was an eccentric and amazing teacher. She told me that what I was doing in school wasn’t good enough and convinced me that I could be a learner; she saw me for who I was.” Chard said. He hopes his students have the same takeaway after being in his class. “I want my students to know that they

are perfect the way they are, that they are insightful, hilarious, and amazing citizens of the world.”

Photo Credit: Liz Davenport

The veteran teacher is now in his 32nd year at Portland Public Schools. He has taught fourth and fifth grade, served as an instructional coach, and currently teaches a second and thirdgrade loop at East End Community School. Chard says that he has seen Portland schools become more diverse, and is proud that teachers throughout Portland are committed to creating culturally responsive education that celebrates everyone in their community. “Portland schools are a welcoming place prepared to embrace students from all around the world,” Chard states.

“But Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion initiatives aren’t just a Portland thing; they’re important for all of Maine because all of our schools and all of our learners have diverse needs, and our students deserve to be educated in an equitable environment.”

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Maine Educator | Spring 2024

Joshua Chard 2024 Maine Teacher of the Year

”

In addition to his classroom duties, Chard is the advisor of the Deering Players, Deering High School’s drama club. During the four years he has led the club, he has built a community of young actors from nine to forty. In early March, the Deering Players took home a Class A Regional One Acts title with their play. “Our goal this year was to not come in last during regional one-act festival because that’s where we placed last year.

But something amazing happened--five students were called up for acting awards, our student lighting designer received an award, and the tech crew was recognized for set construction and painting. I started thinking we may place, and we did more than place. We won the title. These students will never forget the night we came in first,” Chard said proudly.

Chard works to remove barriers to participation in Drama Club, finding ways to work around students’ after-school schedules, implementing a ‘no cuts’ approach to casting, and instituting a ‘pay what you can’ ticketing system to the performance to remove financial barriers to participation. “That’s what teachers do daily,” Chard said, “we remove barriers to success.” At drama club, he says, his students have found a place where they feel safe, to be their true selves.

Q&A

Photo Couresty Portland Public Schools

With Joshua Chard Q: What does it mean to you to have been chosen as Maine's Teacher of the Year?

A: As a man who teaches early elementary school, a veteran teacher who is still passionate about the work, teaching in an urban school in Maine—a primarily rural state, and a member of the LBGTQ+ community, I have an opportunity to show that we can lift up and celebrate diverse learners.

Q: What are you looking forward to as Maine Teacher of the Year?

A: Being the 2024 Maine TOY opens doors and allows me to speak about the amazing things happening in schools across the state. But, as excited as I am about the opportunity to be a spokesperson, I am also excited about a year of professional learning with teachers from across the country.

Q: What do you love to do outside of school?

A: I serve on the Board of Lyric Music Theater in South Portland.

At Lyric, I spearheaded initiatives like ‘Sensory Friendly Shows,’ a ‘pay what you can’ price structure and ASL interpretation to make theater more accessible for all. This year, we launched "Unified Productions," integrating actors with and without developmental and intellectual

disabilities into musicals.

Additionally, a new passion is directing children's musicals at the Children's Theater of Maine, where I directed the musicals Knuffle Bunny and A Year with Frog and Toad.

Q: What is your advice for new teachers today?

A: Relish every moment and don’t let the hard days get in the way of your passion. Find mentors that are enthusiastic and that you can rely on to lift you up and your students.

Put the kids first because you might be the only adult they can count on. Remember that you are important in their lives, and maybe years down the road, you will find out how much you mean to them, just like I have in my TOY Journey.

Q: What would you like to leave members with?

A: I have been a member of MEA since I started my career in education. MEA gives us all a collective voice to advocate for our students and our work. We are all much more powerful when we speak with a collective voice and stand up together. Teachers with strong representation are happier teachers. Happy teachers lead to happy and successful students. In the end, isn’t that what we are all about?

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Maine Educator | Spring 2024

Easier access to behavioral health services Mental health is part of your overall well-being That’s why it’s important to get the right support for behavioral health issues.

Youth suicide rates Suicide is the 2nd leading cause of death for children between 10 and 14 years of age in the U.S., and 12th overall.1

We are here to help If you or a loved one needs help with a mental health or substance use issue, you’re not alone.

Through your Maine Education Association (MEA) Benefits Trust benefits, you can quickly find expert, compassionate, and confidential care — often at lower or no extra cost. You have access to a wide range of programs and services online, on the phone, in person, or through video — whatever is most convenient for you.

Complex needs In the U.S., 21.5M adults experience both mental illness and a substance use disorder.2

Primary care impact Employees experiencing mental distress use an average of nearly $3,000 more in healthcare services per year than their peers.3

1067879MEMENABS 03/24

Video visits You can schedule video visits with psychologists and therapists within seven days using our SydneySM Health app — half the time needed for scheduling in-person appointments.4 Ninety percent of individuals were able to find all the behavioral health services they needed in the last 12 months.5

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Enhancing behavioral health support in Maine Waived copays

Whole-health support

Providing $0 copays for virtual and in-person care.

Offering innovative whole-health programs and services that provide support to children, teens, and adults — with virtual or in-person options.

Expanded networks Using larger networks with more than 100 care providers added through Carelon Behavioral Health, Aspire365, and more LiveHealth Online virtual care providers.6

Our caring team helps you find the right support If you have questions about your benefits or need help finding a behavioral health professional or program, chat with us live on the Sydney Health app or anthem.com, or call Member Services at the number on your health plan ID card.

Specialized benefits Including eating disorder treatment, Autism Spectrum Disorder family outreach, Behavioral Health Case Management, child/adolescent/family/guardian outreach, Emotional Wellbeing Resources, and virtual care through LiveHealth Online.

Download our Sydney Health app or sign up at anthem.com.

Scan the QR code using your phone’s camera.

For help with ...

This program is available

How to access

General behavioral health and severe anxiety, depression, trauma, and substance use.

Aspire365 brings personalized, at-home mental health and substance use treatment to people ages 12 and older over a 12-month period. The program works around your schedule, providing 24/7 clinical support, telehealth and in-person visits, and access to community group sessions.

Aspire365: virtual and in home Visit Find Care at anthem.com.

Learn more at aspire-365.com.

Substance use disorders, such as opioid and alcohol.

Aware Recovery Care provides long-term substance use treatment, including withdrawal management, medication-assisted treatment, and care and support in the privacy and security of your home.

Aware Recovery Care: virtual Visit Find Care at anthem.com.

Learn more at awarerecoverycare.com.

General behavioral health, chronic pain, eating disorders, and substance use disorders such as opioid and alcohol.

Bright Heart Health provides on-demand, virtual treatment (with medication assistance) for those over 18 from a multidisciplinary team of experts to address general and specialized behavioral health conditions.

Bright Heart Health: virtual Visit brighthearthealth.com.

General behavioral health, anxiety, and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) in children and adolescents ages 7 to 22.

InStride Health integrates clinical expertise, coaching, and support into daily life to engage kids and teens every step of the way. The virtual nature of the approach adds flexibility in supporting the needs of busy families, and has been proven to be just as helpful as in-person treatment for those with anxiety and OCD.

InStride Health: virtual Learn more at instride.health.

General mental and behavioral health issues, such as depression, relationship management, family conflict, chronic illness, anger management, childhood abuse, mood disorders, trauma, and grief.

Talkspace offers video, text, and phone sessions for individuals, teens, and couples to connect with a licensed therapist through live sessions, ongoing messaging, or both (for ages 13+). Specializing in more than 150 behavioral health conditions, treatment approaches, and mental health needs, the program helps individuals process thoughts and feelings, understand motivations, and develop coping strategies.

Talkspace: virtual Visit talkspace.com.

Start using your MAP benefits today Your Member Assistance Program (MAP) offers valuable resources designed to help you overcome challenges that can impact your health, family life, and job performance. Call 855-686-5615 and tell the representative you are an MEA Benefits Trust member. You can also scan the QR code with your phone’s camera to learn more about your MAP benefits or visit anthemeap.com.

1 National Institute of Mental Health: Suicide (May 2023): nimh.nih.gov.

2 Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration: Key Substance Use and Mental Health Indicators in the United States: Results from the 2022 National Survey on Drug Use and Health (November 2023): https://www.samhsa.gov/data/sites/default/files/reports/rpt42731/2022-nsduh-nnr.pdf.

3 National Safety Council and the National Opinion Research Center at the University of Chicago: New Mental Health Cost Calculator Shows Why Investing in Mental Health is Good for Business (May 13, 2021): nsc.org.

4 Appointments subject to availability. Online counseling is not appropriate for all kinds of problems. If you are in crisis or have suicidal thoughts, it’s important that you seek help immediately. Please text, chat, or call 988 (Suicide and Crisis Lifeline), or 911 for help. If your issue is an emergency, call 911 or go to your nearest emergency room. LiveHealth Online does not offer emergency services.

5 Internal data: Behavioral Health Case Management Member Satisfaction Survey, Q1–Q3 2022.

6 Internal data: Carelon Behavioral Health, 2022.

In addition to using a telehealth service, you can receive in-person or virtual care from your own doctor or another healthcare provider in your plan’s network. If you receive care from a doctor or healthcare provider not in your plan’s network, your share of the costs may be higher. You also may receive a bill for any charges not covered by your health plan.

Sydney Health is offered through an arrangement with Carelon Digital Platforms, a separate company offering mobile application services on behalf of your health plan.

Virtual text and video visits powered by K Health.

LiveHealth Online is offered through an arrangement with Amwell, a separate company, providing telehealth services on behalf of your health plan.

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Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield is the trade name of Anthem Health Plans of Maine, Inc. Independent licensee of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association. Anthem is a registered trademark of Anthem Insurance Companies, Inc.

Maine Educator | Spring 2024

Pre-Retirement Seminars 2023-24 Session Schedule MEA-Retired and MEA sponsor retirement sessions for individuals considering retirement this year or within five years.

All meetings are held through Zoom, beginning at 5:00 p.m. until 6:15 p.m. on two consecutive evenings.

Registration opens two weeks in advance of the sessions. Materials used in each presentation and the Zoom link are sent to MEA members in advance. Members should be prepared to attend both evening sessions. YOU MUST PRE-REGISTER IN ORDER TO ATTEND. Enrollment is limited to 200 at each session.

Fall Sessions Session

Date

Presenters

1

Tues., October 8, 24 Wed., October 9, 24

MEABT & WEP/GPO MEA-RETIRED & MainePERS

2

Tues., October 22, 24 Wed., October 23, 24

MEABT & WEP/GPO MEA-RETIRED & MainePERS

3

Tues., November 12, 2024 Wed., November 13, 2024

MEABT & WEP/GPO MEA-RETIRED & MainePERS Spring Sessions

4

Tues., January 14, 25 Wed., January 15, 25

MEABT & WEP/GPO MEA-RETIRED & MainePERS

5

Tues., January 28, 25 Wed., January 29, 25

MEABT & WEP/GPO MEA-RETIRED & MainePERS

6

Tues., February 11, 2025 Wed., February 12, 2025

MEABT & WEP/GPO MEA-RETIRED & MainePERS

Don’t miss these educator discounts Long-time corporate supporter Horace Mann recently collaborated with My Education Discount – a comprehensive directory of discounts for educators and school support staff.

Horace Mann also offers special rates for educators on auto, home and life insurance.

Check out Horace Mann’s page on My Education Discount, and don’t forget to contact your local Horace Mann representative or visit horacemann.com for a no-obligation quote!

Horace Mann Insurance Company and its affiliates underwrite Horace Mann auto and home insurance. Horace Mann Life Insurance Company underwrites Horace Mann life insurance products. Not all discounts and benefits available in all states.

AM-C04780 (Feb. 24)

horacemann.com

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Building Inclusive Schools The Success Story of Morse High School's Unified Program

M

orse High School in Bath has implemented an innovative Unified program that enables students to form valuable friendships where everyone is accepted and appreciated. Morse’s robust Unified program, initiated by four teachers, has transformed the learning atmosphere of Morse, creating a sense of community that extends beyond the classroom's boundaries.

Since 2017, when Charlie Bingham introduced a Unified Physical Education and Sports program at Morse High School, the students, staff, and community have enthusiastically embraced the program. They say it has

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Maine Educator | Spring 2024

“

It’s changed my life, and it has changed our school...It allows you to see the good in people.

”

Charlie Bingham Physical Education Teacher

transformed their community into one where all students are included and welcome. The school has since expanded the principles of Unified programming to academic subjects such as science and literacy, with a goal of adding additional subject areas every few years.

In March, over 30 educators from across Maine attended Morse's first Unified

Photo Credit: Dawn Lee

Photo Credit: Dawn Lee

Conference, where students, parents, teachers, and administrators shared their enthusiasm for the program's success.

Bingham and his colleagues, Dawn Lee, Jonathan Fisk, and Julie DeRosa, organized a day-long conference to encourage educators from throughout Maine to implement similar programs at their schools. “It’s changed my life, and it has changed our school,” said Bingham when describing Unified Programming.

“It allows you to see the good in people.”

“

We don't focus on what our students can't do, we focus on what they can do, and we set high expectations for all of our students.

johnathan fisk special education teacher

According to Ian Frank, Executive Director of Special Olympics Maine, 130 K-12 schools in Maine currently incorporate one or more Unified Champion principles. Morse is among the 14 schools in Maine recognized as a National Unified Champion School for meeting the 10 Standards of Excellence set by Special Olympics. Frank says what a Unified Champion School ® "looks like" may differ from school to school based on school needs. This year, Special Olympics recognized five Maine schools as National Unified Champion Schools®: Hampden Academy, Kennebunk High School, Scarborough High School, Scarborough

Middle School, and Thornton Academy.

What distinguishes Morse from other programs is the addition of Unified Academics classes. Similar to the wellknown Unified Sports and Physical Education programs, Unified Academics matches students with and without intellectual disabilities as learning partners. Librarian Dawn Lee says all students benefit from this model. “I can’t think of a better way to build community,” said Lee.

”

Unified Literacy. In 2021, they started discussing ways Fisk’s Functional Life Skills students could benefit from utilizing the library during literacy time.

After some thought, they decided to pitch their principal, Eric Varney, the idea for a new course, Unified Literacy. With the support of Varney and the School Board, the first students enrolled in Unified Literacy in spring 2021.

Lee and special education teacher Jonathan Fisk work together to teach Photo Credit: Dawn Lee

Unified Literacy uses reading buddies, art, field trips, and board games to build relationships through meaningful inclusion while strengthening literacy skills. “We don’t focus on what our students can’t do; we focus on what they can do, and we set high expectations for all of our students,” Fisk said. Morse students enthusiastically embraced the program, with the number of participants doubling in the first year from 12 to 24, and now with a waitlist of over 30. Students who have taken the class once often choose to enroll again, and many students also enroll in other Unified course offerings like the newly implemented Science course.

MORSE UNIFIED STORY CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE → Photo Credit: Dawn Lee

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15

MORSE UNIFIED STORY CONTINUED ↓

(Lee) about my students reading on the comfy couches in the library,” said Fisk.

According to them, communication has been the key to their success. In the end, Bingham says, “This will make you a better teacher and a better person.”

This year, Morse science teacher Julie DeRosa approached Fisk to co-teach a Unified Science class. DeRosa says witnessing her students become what she calls science mentors has given her a fresh perspective. DeRosa developed the Unified Science curriculum to cover the Next Generation Science Standards. Her science mentors work alongside science students to provide students with hands-

“

Unified brings us all together. You can see it when we are out in the community with our kids; they have a new sense of belonging.

Unified parent

”

on, project-based learning opportunities.

Morse's Unified students' positive experiences and strong bonds have led to strong friendships that extend beyond the school. Parents reported a renewed sense of belonging within the community, with their children developing friendships that also translate outside of school. "Noah has formed friendships with students in school that have carried into the community,” one parent explains. “Unified

To Learn More

About Morse's Unified program, visit their website: bit.ly/morseunified

Students in Unified Science work on a 'parts of a plant' project.

brings us all together. You can see it when we are out in the community with our kids; they have a new sense of belonging,” another parent added.

If you’re interested in bringing Unified academics to your school, Bingham, Lee, Fisk, and DeRosa say the most important step is starting the conversation with colleagues. Fisk recalls the simple conversation with Lee that sparked the development of Unified Literacy. “This all started with a conversation with Dawn

UNIFIED CHAMPION SCHOOLS A “Champion” Unified Champion Schools® School combines three components: unified sports, inclusive youth leadership/ advocacy, and whole school engagement. (cite https://www. somaine.org/programs/unifiedchampion-schools/) Impact of Unified Schools Programming: (From Special Olympics Maine)

• 82% of students felt that they were able to change their schools for the better

• 71% of students without

intellectual disabilities remained in contact with students that have disabilities who they met through their school programming after graduation.

• Positive Relationship between school connectedness and attendance

• 86% of School Liaisons said that 16

Maine Educator | Spring 2024

unified programming helped to reduce bullying in their schools

Local

cal e state, lo g th s s o r c A usin ons are associati g to in a barg in e v ti c e ll co nd their ir lives a e th e v o re is a impr lives. He many ’ ts n e d stu f the f some o sample o egotiation gains n ear. contract far this y o s e d a m

Round-Up Spruce Mountain

Brunswick Education Association Over 85 educators and members of the Brunswick Education Association showed up at the Brunswick School Board budget workshop wearing #RedforEd to encourage the board not to eliminate 10.5 positions from the budget.

Brunswick EA ESP contract settled with $1 raises each year for 3 years and negotiated to add a sick bank for the first time.

Yarmouth Education Association Yarmouth EA ESP contract has significant increases, local leaders worked hard to increase membership numbers among the ESPs.

Auburn Transportation Association Auburn Transportation Association secured raises of 6.2% for 2024-2025, 6% for 2025-2026, and 5.9% for 2026-2027.

Dirigo Education Association Dirigo Education Association bus drivers, custodians, and maintenance staff secured raises of 5% in year one, 4% in year two, and 4% for year three.

Additionally, Dirigo Education Support Staff negotiated a 5% raise in year one, 4% in year two, and another 4% in year three.

Spruce Mountain Teachers, Managers, and Education Support Staff negotiated new contracts with raises. Managers will receive an increase of 5% in year one, 3% in year two, and 3% in year three.

Teachers will receive an increase of 5% in year one, 5% in year two, and 3.5% in year three. Support staff will receive an increase of 3.5% in year one, 3% in year two, and another 3% in year three.

Rangeley Support Staff Association Rangeley Support Staff Association negotiated a raise of $2 per hour on top of a 5% increase in year one, 3% increase in year two, and 2.75% increase in year three.

SAD 53 Education Association SAD 53 Education Association Teachers gained Just Cause provision in their contract for all teachers, not just continuing contract teachers.

RSU 19 Education Association RSU 19 Education Association Education Support Professionals gained Just Cause provision in their contract for all forms of discipline for their non-probationary support staff.

Madison Area Education Association Madison Area Education Association negotiated to remove the zipper clause entirely from both teacher and Education Support Professional contracts.

RSU 30 RSU 30 elected MEA member, Julie Page, to the school board!

Megunticook Teachers Association In Five Town Community School District, the Megunticook Teachers Association negotiated gains at both ends of the pay scale with a raise of 7.5% in year 1, 3% in year 2 and another 3% in year 3.

Pen Bay Teachers Association Pen Bay Teachers Association negotiated a 9% increase in year one, 5% in year two, and a 3% increase in year 3.

Brooklin Teachers Association Brooklin TA Negotiated to receive $3 to $7 per hour raise in year one for all support staff.

ACCESS THE MAINE CONTRACT DATABASE See your local contract along with other contracts from around the state!

Access to the contract database requires individual registration, verification of eligibility, and the use of a password.

Contract Database Eligible Users: Local Association Presidents, Local Association Chief Negotiators, MEA Board of Directors, MEA Statewide Bargaining Committee member, MEA Staff and MEA RA Delegates.

SCAN ME

SCAN HERE FOR CONTRACTS MAINEEA.ORG

17

Lobby Day 2024

Be an EDactivist I have classmates graduating with their education degree but choosing not to use it because the amount of time, dedication, and effort that we put into teaching is not reflected in our pay.

KENDRAH WILLEY SAD 68 EA First Year Teacher

O

n the Thursday of February break, MEA members from across the state descended upon the State House to advocate for our schools, professions, and students. Teachers, support staff, and retired educators dressed in red lined the halls of the State House in Augusta for MEA Lobby Days.

The message resonated loud and clear.

With red shirts, red scarves, and red blouses everywhere legislators knew MEA was in the building and they knew we were advocating for higher pay for teachers and all school support staff through funding two key bills, LD 974 and LD 1064 in the supplemental budget. Both bills, aimed at raising pay for teachers

18

Maine Educator | Spring 2024

and school staff, garnered unanimous bipartisan support from the Education and Cultural Affairs committee.

Members shared powerful testimonies about the challenges of working in understaffed schools and the struggles to attract new educators. Unfilled positions leave our students without the support they deserve, and it's only getting worse.

MEA President, Grace Leavitt emphasized the issue: “It is critical that we do more to attract and retain quality educators to work with our students in Maine. LD 974 and 1064 will go a long way towards doing just that.”

Leaders from both parties recognize the need to invest in our schools and educators. Senator Teresa Pierce, a sponsor of LD 1064, highlighted the importance of competitive pay to retain

qualified educators and ensure our students have the best possible education.

“School districts across Maine are struggling to hire and retain qualified teachers. We know a major part of the problem is low pay that hasn’t kept up with the cost of inflation. Raising pay to keep pace with both the cost of living and the pay in surrounding states is critical to making sure our students have the best education possible, so they can become the leaders of tomorrow. Investing in schools and educators means investing in Maine’s future,” she said in a statement to MEA. This is just the beginning! MEA remains committed to working with legislators to secure funding for these crucial bills.

Be an edadctivist!

Here's how you can stay involved: Sign up to attend our April Lobby Day Scan the QR Code to visit our action center to sign up!

Contact your legislators! Share stories with legislators about how staff shortages are impacting your district.

Stay informed! Join our weekly “Under the Dome” Newsletter with John (Jan) Kosinski MEA’s Government Relations Director

“

Teachers, ed techs, bus drivers, lunchroom workers, support staff make a difference in schools.

They're not paid enough.

State Rep. michael brennan

”

Explanation of bills Teacher Salary Increase: LD 1064

“

Would lift the minimum teacher salary, gradually, to $50,000. This bill was passed last year and remains on the Appropriations table. We need to get the funding secured to make this happen so we will keep pushing.

It is critical that we do more to attract and retain quality educators to work with our students in Maine. LD 974 and 1064 will go a long way towards doing just that.

Grace Leavitt MEA President

Support Staff Wage Increase: LD 974

”

Would lift the minimum wage for school support staff to 125% of the state minimum wage for all support staff and 150% for ed techs. Given the shortages we are seeing, we need to get this bill funded and passed. On Tuesday, the Education Committee revisited the bill, given the new information about the cost of implementation. Instead of a projected cost of $240 million the state now believes it will cost about $14 million to lift the minimum for all school support staff.

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MEA SALARY GUIDE 2023-24

The MEA maintains a salary database to help members understand how educators are paid across Maine. MEA encourages you use this information as you advocate for wages and benefits in your district. The following data is based off contracts submitted to the MEA for the 2023-2024 school year. Due to space limitations, the minimum salaries for Education Support Professionals will not appear in print, but you can find them online in the MEA salary guide. Scan the QR code or visit maineea.org/mea-salary-guide/ *Maximum pay for ESP are printed on the following pages.

ANDROSCOGGIN COUNTY School District Auburn Lewiston RSU 04, Sabattus RSU 16, Poland RSU 52, Turner RSU 73, Jay-Livermore ANDROSCOGGIN AVERAGE AROOSTOOK COUNTY School District AOS 95 - SAD 27, Fort Kent Caswell Easton Limestone Madawaska RSU 29, Houlton RSU 32, Ashland RSU 33, St. Agatha RSU 39, Caribou RSU 42, Mars Hill RSU 45, Washburn RSU 50, Southern Aroostook RSU 70, Hodgdon RSU 79, Presque Isle RSU 86, Fort Fairfield RSU 88, Van Buren Southern Aroostook Region 2 Woodland AROOSTOOK AVERAGE CUMBERLAND COUNTY School District** Brunswick Cape Elizabeth Falmouth Gorham Portland RSU 05, Freeport RSU 14, Windham RSU 15, Gray RSU 51, Cumberland RSU 61, Bridgton Sebago South Portland Westbrook Yarmouth CUMBERLAND AVERAGE FRANKLIN COUNTY School District Flagstaff RSU, Eustis RSU 09, Farmington RSU 58, Phillips RSU 78, Rangeley FRANKLIN AVERAGE HANCOCK COUNTY School District Blue Hill Brooklin Brooksville Castine Deer Isle-Stonington CSD Ellsworth

20

BACHELOR’S STEP 10 MAX $55,290 $65,671 $52,098 $66,805 $46,623 $62,241 $49,988 $68,831 $53,216 $69,094 $50,335 $66,898 $51,258 $66,590 BACHELOR’S MIN STEP 10 MAX $42,000 $57,120 $68,880 $40,780 $50,780 $48,780 $40,850 $52,430 $69,050 $41,500 $50,500 $70,300 $40,600 $55,759 $63,707 $43,146 $52,946 $72,546 $40,500 $57,267 $68,445 $40,800 $47,846 $64,293 $42,500 $56,430 $72,601 $42,250 $55,770 $70,980 $40,000 $46,000 $66,000 $40,100 $55,619 $64,240 $40,800 $47,000 $65,000 $40,000 $53,110 $70,517 $41,500 $57,700 $70,300 $40,000 $56,767 $75,397 $40,560 $45,651 $61,351 $41,052 $52,864 $67,199 BACHELOR’S MIN STEP 10 MAX $47,000 $60,965 $84,239 $48,088 $66,554 $83,915 $48,159 $67,423 $86,687 $43,556 $62,765 $78,924 $47,035 $61,507 $83,610 $43,771 $59,527 $73,974 $42,771 $56,537 $75,329 $45,000 $57,150 $74,700 $49,677 $60,531 $79,713 $41,600 $58,240 $60,320 $40,905 $57,266 $75,671 $44,386 $64,360 $76,788 $37,774 $57,659 $79,181 $48,738 $70,670 $87,241 $44,890 $61,511 $78,592 BACHELOR’S MIN STEP 10 MAX $41,200 $56,151 $73,941 $40,800 $53,235 $67,436 $41,200 $53,757 $68,097 $42,000 $52,453 $67,143 $41,300 $53,899 $69,154 BACHELOR’S MIN STEP 10 MAX $43,159 $49,909 $57,409 $41,000 $48,650 $57,150 $42,000 $51,000 $56,000 $42,840 $50,551 $54,835 $40,000 $44,500 $52,400 $41,600 $50,156 $64,363 MIN $42,794 $40,500 $41,400 $42,159 $41,100 $41,310 $41,544

Maine Educator | Spring 2024

MIN $46,894 $42,737 $46,800 $44,024 $43,343 $42,900 $44,450 MIN $46,000 $42,780 $42,893 $44,000 $42,045 $45,146 $43,500 $44,800 $44,500 $45,250 $42,000 $43,100 $43,800 $42,000 $44,000 $42,000 $42,160 $43,528 MIN $49,877 $53,859 $52,975 $48,021 $51,536 $48,585 $45,576 $48,200 $55,816 $45,760 $43,895 $48,825 $41,551 $53,612 $49,149 MIN $44,290 $43,350 $44,558 $45,675 $44,468 MIN $45,709 $43,000 $44,500 $45,900 $41,000 $44,350

MASTER’S STEP 10 $60,639 $55,399 $52,704 $51,853 $56,277 $52,759 $54,939 MASTER’S STEP 10 $61,120 $52,780 $55,052 $53,000 $59,376 $54,946 $61,509 $51,846 $59,085 $59,730 $48,000 $58,619 $50,000 $55,766 $60,200 $60,151 $47,251 $55,790 MASTER’S STEP 10 $63,842 $72,325 $72,239 $67,229 $63,176 $66,097 $60,481 $61,200 $68,012 $62,400 $60,256 $68,799 $61,436 $75,544 $65,931 MASTER’S STEP 10 $60,363 $56,562 $58,138 $57,042 $58,026 MASTER’S STEP 10 $52,459 $50,650 $53,500 $54,162 $46,200 $52,906

MAX $72,059 $71,038 $70,359 $70,931 $73,070 $70,152 $71,268 MAX $72,880 $50,780 $72,503 $72,800 $68,105 $74,546 $73,515 $68,293 $76,018 $76,020 $68,000 $67,240 $68,000 $74,043 $72,800 $80,471 $62,951 $70,527 MAX $87,116 $90,840 $93,911 $83,389 $85,278 $83,691 $79,177 $79,450 $89,565 $74,880 $78,661 $85,665 $82,957 $94,551 $84,938 MAX $79,486 $71,651 $73,648 $73,018 $74,451 MAX $59,959 $59,150 $58,500 $58,752 $58,300 $67,113

Steps (BA/ MA) 16 20 22 21 19 19 20 Steps (BA/ MA) 17 11 19 31 15 24 16 21 18 19 36 15 26 19 17 20 23 20 Steps (BA/ MA) 25 26 26 26 31 27 31 25 37 19 19 19 51 41 29 Steps (BA/ MA) 18 18 18 20 19 Steps (BA/ MA) 23 20 15 15 21 22

BA MAX/MA MAX (OUT OF 161) 108/93 102/100 136/107 87/103 81/81 99/109 BA MAX/MA MAX (OUT OF 161) 84/84 163/164 82/91 72/86 124/117 59/69 91/78 118/116 57/53 68/52 106/118 120/124 111/118 71/74 72/86 32/30 -/138/145 BA MAX/MA MAX (OUT OF 161) 4/9 5/5 3/2 22/21 6/16 44/20 33/39 39/37 15/6 144/64 31/41 27/13 19/22 2/1 BA MAX/MA MAX (OUT OF 161) 45/36 96/96 93/77 98/82 BA MAX/MA MAX (OUT OF 161) 154/155 155/156 159/160 160/158 161/161 117/125

Hancock Lamoine Mount Desert Island Penobscot RSU 24, Sullivan RSU 25, Bucksport Sedgwick Surry HANCOCK AVERAGE KENNEBEC COUNTY School District Fayette RSU 02, Hallowell RSU 11, Gardiner RSU 18, Oakland RSU 38, Maranacook RSU 49, Fairfield Vassalboro Waterville Winslow Winthrop KENNEBEC AVERAGE KNOX COUNTY School District Appleton Five Town CSD Hope Knox Region 8 RSU 07, North Haven RSU 08, Vinalhaven RSU 13, Seacoast RSU 28, Camden St. George KNOX AVERAGE LINCOLN COUNTY School District AOS 93 - Bristol AOS 93 - Great Salt Bay CSD AOS 93 - Jefferson AOS 93 - Nobleboro AOS 93 - South Bristol AOS 98 - Boothbay AOS 98 - Georgetown AOS 98 - Southport RSU 40, Waldoboro Wiscasset LINCOLN AVERAGE OXFORD COUNTY School District Fryeburg Academy RSU 10, Rumford RSU 17, Paris RSU 44, Bethel RSU 56, Dixfield RSU 72, Fryeburg OXFORD AVERAGE PENOBSCOT COUNTY School District AOS 90 - SAD 30, Lee AOS 90 - Baileyville AOS 94 - SAD 46, Dexter East Millinocket Glenburn Hermon Medway Millinocket Orrington RSU 19, Newport

$41,200 $46,016 $40,000 $41,500 $42,000 $41,875 $41,933

$49,238 $61,221 $58,567 $75,915 $46,800 $46,800 $47,408 $62,274 $48,490 $64,791 $49,525 $58,875 $49,566 $59,336 BACHELOR’S MIN STEP 10 MAX $42,125 $49,325 $63,725 $41,554 $48,204 $66,548 $41,332 $49,353 $70,116 $41,578 $48,738 $73,650 $41,360 $46,814 $68,630 $41,500 $47,338 $70,706 $41,013 $53,965 $71,953 $42,230 $53,728 $82,187 $41,472 $50,744 $78,370 $40,500 $48,764 $60,917 $41,466 $49,697 $70,680 BACHELOR’S MIN STEP 10 MAX $41,412 $56,440 $64,766 $44,603 $58,972 $79,648 $41,769 $52,572 $69,723 $48,714 $61,253 $78,862 $45,168 $59,710 $78,935 $42,575 $55,075 $73,725 $44,603 $58,972 $79,648 $42,539 $55,504 $76,041 $43,923 $57,312 $75,169 BACHELOR’S MIN STEP 10 MAX $41,245 $56,212 $69,099 $45,588 $56,533 $74,176 $40,250 $51,308 $66,512 $40,000 $54,516 $62,558 $41,679 $54,024 $68,733 $41,311 $53,902 $76,851 $40,908 $55,608 $77,560 $44,497 $60,644 $82,652 $42,936 $53,614 $75,741 $40,000 $51,278 $75,086 $41,841 $54,764 $72,897 BACHELOR’S MIN STEP 10 MAX $43,000 $49,000 $64,000 $40,500 $55,197 $72,684 $43,688 $52,858 $67,615 $42,698 $50,235 $68,957 $40,000 $53,110 $68,331 $42,000 $51,993 $67,491 $41,981 $52,066 $68,180 BACHELOR’S MIN STEP 10 MAX $41,000 $47,400 $63,400 $40,000 $53,800 $70,800 $40,000 $48,635 $71,000 $41,000 $42,866 $63,113 $44,000 $54,125 $64,250 $42,000 $52,000 $68,852 $41,000 $48,650 $57,150 $42,000 $47,250 $64,575 $42,082 $50,231 $60,306 $41,485 $45,635 $72,195

$44,250 $49,016 $41,600 $43,000 $44,000 $43,875 $44,183 MIN $43,625 $46,580 $43,606 $43,578 $44,360 $43,500 $43,013 $44,290 $43,546 $43,000 $43,910 MIN $44,412 $48,665 $44,769 $51,738 $46,668 $45,675 $48,665 $44,911 $46,938 MIN $43,316 $47,588 $43,750 $42,000 $43,734 $43,121 $43,065 $50,059 $45,550 $42,500 $44,468 MIN $46,000 $43,500 $46,116 $45,320 $43,000 $44,400 $44,723 MIN $43,000 $43,400 $43,750 $43,000 $46,000 $44,000 $42,600 $43,575 $46,745 $44,635

$53,206 $61,567 $48,400 $49,061 $51,443 $51,525 $52,090 MASTER’S STEP 10 $50,825 $54,034 $52,068 $50,738 $49,814 $50,654 $55,965 $56,349 $53,281 $51,774 $52,550 MASTER’S STEP 10 $59,440 $63,034 $55,572 $64,333 $61,693 $59,975 $63,034 $58,598 $60,710 MASTER’S STEP 10 $59,036 $58,533 $54,808 $57,242 $57,497 $56,264 $57,854 $68,225 $56,879 $53,778 $58,011 MASTER’S STEP 10 $52,000 $59,286 $55,287 $53,306 $57,093 $54,965 $55,323 MASTER’S STEP 10 $49,400 $57,200 $52,385 $44,866 $56,125 $54,000 $50,250 $48,300 $54,011 $48,785

$66,154 $78,915 $52,400 $64,745 $68,737 $60,875 $62,800 MAX $65,225 $74,596 $73,973 $75,650 $71,630 $75,659 $73,953 $86,568 $82,289 $64,677 $74,422 MAX $67,766 $83,710 $72,723 $82,026 $81,557 $77,125 $83,710 $80,281 $78,612 MAX $72,570 $76,176 $71,000 $65,686 $73,152 $80,218 $79,806 $92,984 $80,354 $77,586 $76,953 MAX $67,000 $78,068 $70,044 $72,593 $73,455 $71,348 $72,085 MAX $65,400 $74,200 $74,750 $65,113 $66,250 $70,993 $58,750 $66,150 $64,990 $75,345

21 19 15 22 23 21 20 Steps (BA/ MA) 22 23 23 29 26 29 26 34 31 21 26 Steps (BA/ MA) 14 21 21 22 19 20 21 20 20 Steps (BA/ MA) 16 21 21 14 19 22 21 19 24 29 21 Steps (BA/ MA) 25 18 22 23 18 21 21 Steps (BA/ MA) 30 21 29 27 19 22 20 41 21 26

141/129 -/29/40 164/163 135/142 112/113 -/152/152 BA MAX/MA MAX (OUT OF 161) 123/138 103/68 74/75 49/60 90/97 70/59 62/76 10/12 24/26 142/143 BA MAX/MA MAX (OUT OF 161) 113/120 16/18 77/88 -/23/27 21/28 47/46 16/18 28/33 BA MAX/MA MAX (OUT OF 161) 80/90 42/51 104/101 134/132 88/80 26/34 25/35 8/4 30/32 35/45 BA MAX/MA MAX (OUT OF 161) 122/126 56/43 94/110 83/89 92/79 95/99 BA MAX/MA MAX (OUT OF 161) 128/135 69/72 67/66 131/139 119/128 85/102 155/159 114/130 145/140 61/62

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RSU 22, Hampden RSU 26, Orono RSU 31, Howland RSU 34, Old Town RSU 63, Holden RSU 67, Lincoln RSU 87, Carmel RSU 89, Patten Southern Penobscot Region 4 Veazie PENOBSCOT AVERAGE PISCATAQUIS COUNTY School District Foxcroft Academy

$42,230 $42,550 $41,500 $42,745 $42,500 $40,500 $40,500 $40,840 $37,500 $40,000 $41,272

Greenville RSU 68, Dover-Foxcroft RSU 80, Guilford PISCATAQUIS AVERAGE SAGADAHOC COUNTY School District RSU 01, Bath RSU 75, Topsham West Bath SAGADAHOC AVERAGE SOMERSET COUNTY School District AOS 94 - Harmony RSU 53, Pittsfield RSU 54, Skowhegan RSU 59, Madison RSU 74, Anson RSU 82, Jackman RSU 83, Bingham SOMERSET AVERAGE WALDO COUNTY School District Islesboro Lincolnville Northport RSU 03, Unity RSU 20, Searsport RSU 71, Belfast Waldo Region 7 WALDO AVERAGE WASHINGTON COUNTY School District AOS 77 - Alexander AOS 77 - Charlotte AOS 77 - Eastport AOS 77 - Lubec AOS 77 - Pembroke AOS 77 - Perry AOS 90 - Princeton AOS 96 - Cutler Calais Cherryfield East Range CSD AOS 96 - Machiasport Moosabec CSD RSU 37, Harrington RSU 84, Danforth Washington Academy WASHINGTON AVERAGE YORK COUNTY School District Acton Biddeford Dayton Kittery

$41,239 $40,000 $40,000 $40,413

22

MIN -

$51,816 $72,248 $52,261 $73,705 $56,560 $69,527 $53,566 $74,305 $50,600 $56,900 $45,500 $66,000 $49,500 $60,500 $42,593 $66,842 $47,772 $61,276 $51,416 $73,875 $49,609 $66,541 BACHELOR’S STEP 10 MAX -

$54,361 $71,231 $46,660 $66,836 $46,300 $63,400 $49,107 $67,156 BACHELOR’S MIN STEP 10 MAX $40,811 $55,499 $83,556 $44,800 $62,944 $81,088 $41,200 $56,548 $82,384 $42,270 $58,330 $82,343 BACHELOR’S MIN STEP 10 MAX $40,600 $46,900 $61,400 $40,800 $47,987 $65,569 $41,200 $48,700 $72,700 $40,702 $51,131 $64,532 $42,227 $52,401 $58,902 $41,600 $53,248 $71,552 $40,600 $51,040 $66,120 $41,104 $50,201 $65,825 BACHELOR’S MIN STEP 10 MAX $44,631 $55,656 $69,131 $47,899 $60,875 $74,275 $42,300 $57,293 $71,178 $42,250 $51,650 $65,550 $40,900 $50,869 $64,418 $40,000 $51,143 $68,666 $42,782 $51,848 $58,453 $42,966 $54,191 $67,382 BACHELOR’S MIN STEP 10 MAX $41,200 $55,600 $63,600 $40,500 $53,100 $60,100 $41,200 $55,600 $63,600 $41,200 $55,150 $61,350 $40,700 $53,300 $60,300 $40,800 $53,652 $59,364 $40,200 $45,712 $62,754 $40,000 $47,200 $59,200 $41,250 $52,050 $64,200 $40,885 $48,085 $56,785 $41,800 $49,000 $62,600 $40,000 $44,500 $52,000 $40,780 $54,280 $63,280 $40,809 $51,325 $60,703 BACHELOR’S MIN STEP 10 MAX $43,346 $55,946 $71,346 $40,497 $62,770 $68,845 $41,674 $54,854 $69,856 $47,523 $62,007 $74,039

Maine Educator | Spring 2024

$44,730 $44,550 $43,500 $45,245 $44,500 $42,000 $42,200 $43,840 $37,500 $42,000 $43,538

$54,316 $54,261 $58,506 $54,760 $52,600 $47,000 $51,200 $45,593 $47,666 $53,416 $51,732 MASTER’S MIN STEP 10 No 23-24 Data $46,675 $59,797 $43,000 $50,159 $42,000 $48,300 $43,892 $52,752 MASTER’S MIN STEP 10 $44,892 $59,580 $49,300 $67,444 $45,320 $60,513 $46,504 $62,512 MASTER’S MIN STEP 10 $41,300 $54,300 $43,536 $51,882 $44,400 $51,900 $43,708 $54,131 $44,630 $56,075 $44,928 $56,576 $45,168 $55,608 $43,953 $54,353 MASTER’S MIN STEP 10 $48,347 $59,372 $51,399 $64,375 $45,300 $60,293 $45,750 $55,150 $42,945 $53,170 $42,200 $53,343 $45,032 $54,098 $45,853 $57,114 MASTER’S MIN STEP 10 $43,200 $57,600 $42,500 $55,100 $43,200 $57,600 $43,200 $57,150 $42,200 $54,800 $43,656 $56,508 $41,205 $48,876 $41,100 $48,300 $45,750 $56,550 $41,985 $49,185 $42,900 $49,300 $44,919 $49,419 $42,780 $56,280 $42,969 $53,590 MASTER’S MIN STEP 10 $46,470 $59,070 $44,547 $64,795 $43,960 $57,219 $50,417 $65,783

$74,748 $75,705 $71,527 $76,805 $58,900 $67,500 $62,200 $69,842 $64,968 $75,875 $69,001 MAX $76,667 $71,848 $65,400 $71,305 MAX $87,871 $85,588 $86,637 $86,699 MAX $74,400 $70,184 $75,900 $67,532 $70,772 $74,880 $72,068 $72,248 MAX $72,847 $77,775 $74,178 $69,050 $66,718 $70,866 $60,724 $70,308 MAX $65,600 $62,100 $65,600 $63,350 $61,800 $62,220 $65,892 $60,300 $68,700 $57,885 $62,900 $61,419 $65,280 $63,311 MAX $74,470 $74,919 $71,952 $78,548

24 25 16 21 17 30 21 26 20 20 24 Steps (BA/ MA) 31 28 29 29 Steps (BA/ MA) 21 19 21 20 Steps (BA/ MA) 32 26 35 32 21 21 27 28 Steps (BA/ MA) 21 17 16 22 17 16 16 18 Steps (BA/ MA) 14 15 15 14 15 14 36 25 26 20 27 31 16 21 Steps (BA/ MA) 21 16 20 16

60/67 48/58 78/98 40/47 157/157 106/123 143/148 100/111 140/141 46/57 BA MAX/MA MAX (OUT OF 161) -/65/48 101/95 128/135 BA MAX/MA MAX (OUT OF 161) 7/8 12/15 9/11 BA MAX/MA MAX (OUT OF 161) 137/71 109/108 55/55 115/122 151/106 63/64 105/92 BA MAX/MA MAX (OUT OF 161) 79/85 41/44 66/73 110/112 116/127 89/105 153/153 BA MAX/MA MAX (OUT OF 161) 125/133 148/149 -/125/133 139/144 146/150 149/147 -/132/131 150/154 121/114 -/158/162 133/146 162/151 130/137 BA MAX/MA MAX (OUT OF 161) 64/70 86/63 76/94 43/42

RSU 06, Buxton $41,541 $50,250 $70,000 $44,541 $53,250 RSU 21, Kennebunk $45,795 $58,589 $80,135 $49,602 $61,949 RSU 23, Old Orchard Beach $39,550 $55,212 $67,393 $43,030 $58,692 RSU 35, Eliot $46,368 $58,003 $74,808 $51,005 $63,803 RSU 57, Alfred $45,195 $54,750 $72,795 $48,581 $58,136 RSU 60, Berwick $45,550 $56,050 $72,550 $48,550 $59,050 Saco $42,273 $56,730 $72,794 $45,486 $59,943 Sanford $42,274 $54,824 $73,096 $45,450 $58,002 Wells-Ogunquit CSD $55,824 $70,388 $88,834 $60,679 $75,242 York $51,521 $65,047 $80,076 $56,672 $71,550 YORK AVERAGE $44,924 $58,244 $74,041 $48,499 $61,892 STATEWIDE AVERAGE $42,105 $53,372 $69,487 $45,064 $56,707 *BA min/MA min brought up to the state starting pay for teachers of $40,000. **Reg 3 and Region 10 do not have actual salary scales

$73,000 $85,137 $70,874 $82,289 $75,881 $75,500 $76,007 $76,608 $93,688 $88,081 $78,354 $73,580

26 31 17 17 24 20 20 20 24 20 21 22

75/83 13/17 97/104 36/23 53/56 58/61 54/54 51/49 1/3 14/7

The following are the maximums for the job classifications submitted by the local associations. To see the minimums, please visit maineea.org/mea-salary-guide Rank 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 44 45 46 47 48 49 50 51 52 53 54 55 56 57 58 59 60 61 62 63 64 65 66 67 68 69 70 71

Bus Driver School District Wiscasset RSU 59, Madison RSU 06, Buxton Sebago RSU 75, Topsham Gorham RSU 74, Anson Brunswick Cape Elizabeth Saco Portland RSU 14, Windham RSU 51, Cumberland RSU 23, Old Orchard Beach RSU 21, Kennebunk RSU 05, Freeport Biddeford Blue Hill South Portland AOS 93 - Great Salt Bay CSD RSU 28, Camden Auburn RSU 11, Gardiner Falmouth St. George Hermon Moosabec CSD RSU 40, Waldoboro AOS 98 - Boothbay-Boothbay Harbor CSD Scarborough RSU 24, Sullivan Athens RSU 12, Windsor Ellsworth RSU 15, Gray Lisbon AOS 91 - Bar Harbor Dayton RSU 13, Seacoast RSU 09, Farmington RSU 17, Paris RSU 20, Searsport Waterville RSU 71, Belfast Fayette RSU 04, Sabattus AOS 98 - Edgecomb RSU 54, Skowhegan RSU 02, Hallowell RSU 50, Southern Aroostook RSU 80, Guilford RSU 61, Bridgton Westbrook RSU 89, Patten RSU 52, Turner RSU 49, Fairfield RSU 03, Unity RSU 18, Oakland RSU 58, Phillips RSU 78, Rangeley RSU 31, Howland RSU 19, Newport AOS 77 - RSU 85, Lubec AOS 90 - SAD 30, Lee AOS 90 - Baileyville Woodland RSU 67, Lincoln AOS 77 - Pembroke Madawaska RSU 10, Rumford RSU 83, Bingham

MAX $28.86 $27.54 $27.46 $26.92 $26.86 $26.80 $26.52 $26.50 $26.37 $26.26 $26.15 $26.09 $26.07 $25.60 $25.49 $25.43 $25.31 $25.29 $25.11 $25.09 $25.05 $25.00 $25.00 $24.88 $24.81 $24.70 $24.64 $24.50 $24.43 $24.38 $24.25 $24.23 $24.21 $24.17 $23.91 $23.84 $23.73 $23.65 $23.65 $23.60 $23.58 $23.58 $23.58 $23.56 $23.32 $23.00 $22.88 $22.86 $22.81 $22.61 $22.25 $22.17 $22.15 $22.00 $21.85 $21.77 $21.75 $21.74 $21.74 $21.42 $21.14 $21.12 $21.10 $20.98 $20.84 $20.84 $20.74 $20.70 $20.51 $20.36 $20.30

72 73 74 75 76 77 78 79

Rank 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 44 45 46 47 48 49 50 51 52 53 54 55 56 57 58 59 60 61

AOS 95 - SAD 27, Fort Kent RSU 56 - Dixfield Southern Aroostook Region 2 RSU 84, Danforth RSU 33, St. Agatha Caswell RSU 29, Houlton AOS 94 - Harmony AVERAGE COOK/FOODWORKER School District York Brooklin RSU 14, Windham Acton Yarmouth Gorham AOS 91 - Bar Harbor Athens RSU 75, Topsham RSU 23, Old Orchard Beach Northport Scarborough Wiscasset Augusta Five Town CSD RSU 28, Camden Sanford Sebago Cape Elizabeth RSU 51, Cumberland RSU 22, Hampden AOS 93 - Great Salt Bay CSD RSU 38, Maranacook South Portland RSU 20, Searsport RSU 40, Waldoboro Portland Greenville RSU 50, Southern Aroostook Westbrook Hermon RSU 71, Belfast RSU 12, Windsor RSU 15, Gray Appleton Blue Hill Brunswick RSU 89, Patten Waterville AOS 98 - Boothbay-Boothbay Harbor CSD RSU 29, Houlton RSU 13, Seacoast Deer Isle-Stonington CSD Lisbon RSU 61, Bridgton Kittery RSU 05, Freeport RSU 16, Poland Winslow RSU 60, Berwick St. George AOS 77 - RSU 85, Lubec RSU 83, Bingham RSU 03, Unity RSU 04, Sabattus RSU 59, Madison RSU 74, Anson RSU 49, Fairfield RSU 80, Guilford RSU 33, St. Agatha RSU 54, Skowhegan

$20.25 $20.17 $20.16 $20.09 $20.05 $20.00 $18.00 $16.75 $23.38 MAX $24.99 $24.39 $24.28 $24.18 $23.99 $23.93 $23.23 $23.16 $22.50 $22.18 $22.07 $21.59 $21.53 $21.49 $21.37 $21.37 $21.35 $21.30 $21.00 $21.00 $20.97 $20.78 $20.74 $20.67 $20.58 $20.41 $20.33 $20.31 $20.15 $20.14 $19.96 $19.85 $19.80 $19.80 $19.78 $19.78 $19.73 $19.72 $19.71 $19.70 $19.69 $19.65 $19.48 $19.48 $19.46 $19.27 $19.20 $19.03 $19.01 $18.98 $18.94 $18.90 $18.88 $18.75 $18.75 $18.75 $18.54 $18.35 $18.25 $18.20 $18.20

62 63 64 65 66 67 68 69 70 71 72 73 74 75 76 77 78 79 80 81 82 83 84 85

RSU 31, Howland RSU 02, Hallowell Winthrop AOS 90 - Baileyville Woodland Milford Glenburn AOS 77 - Pembroke Caswell AOS 93 - South Bristol Madawaska Veazie Moosabec CSD RSU 18, Oakland RSU 19, Newport AOS 94 - SAD 46, Dexter RSU 84, Danforth RSU 26, Orono RSU 52, Turner Auburn RSU 78, Rangeley Millinocket RSU 34, Old Town East Millinocket AVERAGE

$18.17 $18.14 $18.13 $18.12 $18.12 $18.09 $18.02 $18.00 $18.00 $17.98 $17.90 $17.60 $17.52 $17.28 $17.25 $17.06 $16.74 $16.64 $16.55 $16.50 $16.12 $15.60 $14.75 $14.29 $19.58

Rank 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 44

CUSTODIAN School District Acton Yarmouth York RSU 75, Topsham Greenville Gorham Saco Brunswick RSU 21, Kennebunk RSU 14, Windham RSU 05, Freeport RSU 23, Old Orchard Beach Five Town CSD RSU 28, Camden AOS 93 - Great Salt Bay CSD Cape Elizabeth RSU 06, Buxton RSU 09, Farmington Wiscasset AOS 91 - Bar Harbor Northport Athens Brooklin Scarborough Waterville South Portland RSU 22, Hampden Portland RSU 17, Paris RSU 51, Cumberland Appleton Falmouth RSU 20, Searsport RSU 40, Waldoboro RSU 71, Belfast Augusta RSU 53, Pittsfield RSU 34, Old Town RSU 83, Bingham RSU 15, Gray Dayton Millinocket RSU 49, Fairfield RSU 25, Bucksport

MAX $26.36 $26.32 $26.22 $25.36 $25.09 $25.06 $24.85 $24.34 $24.30 $24.28 $24.03 $23.79 $23.77 $23.77 $23.66 $23.65 $23.61 $23.60 $23.41 $23.23 $23.22 $23.20 $23.10 $23.09 $23.01 $22.90 $22.85 $22.60 $22.39 $22.35 $22.19 $22.17 $22.14 $22.01 $22.00 $21.97 $21.90 $21.83 $21.83 $21.78 $21.54 $21.53 $21.43 $21.40

MAINEEA.ORG

23

45 46 47 48 49 50 51 52 53 54 55 56 57 58 59 60 61 62 63 64 65 66 67 68 69 70 71 72 73 74 75 76 77 78 79 80 81 82 83 84 85 86 87 88 89 90 91 92 93 94 95 96 97 98 99

Rank 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37

24

AOS 98 - Edgecomb RSU 19, Newport RSU 61, Bridgton Sebago Winthrop RSU 50, Southern Aroostook RSU 04, Sabattus Blue Hill RSU 52, Turner Bangor AOS 93 - South Bristol RSU 13, Seacoast RSU 38, Maranacook RSU 74, Anson RSU 16, Poland AOS 90 - SAD 30, Lee RSU 89, Patten Westbrook Hermon RSU 02, Hallowell Auburn East Millinocket RSU 12, Windsor RSU 54, Skowhegan AOS 98 - Boothbay-Boothbay Harbor CSD RSU 18, Oakland RSU 11, Gardiner RSU 59, Madison RSU 58, Phillips AOS 90 - Baileyville Woodland Waldo Region 7 Deer Isle-Stonington CSD RSU 31, Howland Southern Aroostook Region 2 AOS 77 - Pembroke AOS 77 - RSU 85, Lubec RSU 24, Sullivan RSU 80, Guilford AOS 94 - Harmony AOS 77 - Alexander Madawaska RSU 03, Unity RSU 33, St. Agatha RSU 26, Orono RSU 29, Houlton AOS 94 - SAD 46, Dexter Milford Glenburn RSU 10, Rumford Ellsworth RSU 56 - Dixfield Moosabec CSD RSU 78, Rangeley RSU 84, Danforth AVERAGE ED TECH I School District Southern Aroostook Region 2 York RSU 72, Fryeburg RSU 14, Windham Acton Portland Cape Elizabeth Bangor RSU 75, Topsham West Bath Athens RSU 05, Freeport AOS 93 - Great Salt Bay CSD RSU 20, Searsport Scarborough Gorham RSU 21, Kennebunk Brooklin RSU 57, Alfred AOS 91 - Bar Harbor Yarmouth RSU 01, Bath RSU 60, Berwick RSU 71, Belfast RSU 41, Milo Madawaska Lewiston Vassalboro Waldo Region 7 RSU 06, Buxton Waterville RSU 22, Hampden Wiscasset Ellsworth RSU 11, Gardiner Westbrook RSU 23, Old Orchard Beach

$21.35 $21.35 $21.34 $21.30 $21.11 $21.06 $20.90 $20.77 $20.73 $20.72 $20.71 $20.65 $20.43 $20.42 $20.40 $20.36 $20.35 $20.26 $20.23 $20.16 $20.13 $20.01 $19.80 $19.79 $19.70 $19.66 $19.64 $19.59 $19.58 $19.57 $19.57 $19.56 $19.48 $19.46 $19.42 $19.40 $19.35 $19.30 $19.25 $19.15 $19.12 $18.91 $18.75 $18.73 $18.72 $18.53 $18.33 $18.09 $18.02 $18.02 $17.95 $17.85 $17.74 $17.45 $16.74 $21.23 MAX $27.15 $25.70 $25.49 $24.28 $24.18 $24.06 $23.78 $23.63 $23.56 $23.19 $23.16 $23.03 $22.77 $22.77 $22.66 $22.55 $22.39 $22.31 $22.31 $22.25 $22.21 $22.12 $22.10 $22.06 $22.00 $21.85 $21.64 $21.46 $21.38 $21.29 $21.25 $21.21 $21.12 $21.07 $21.06 $20.90 $20.89

Maine Educator | Spring 2024

38 39 40 41 42 43 44 45 46 47 48 49 50 51 52 53 54 55 56 57 58 59 60 61 62 63 64 65 66 67 68 69 70 71 72 73 74 75 76 77 78 79 80 81 82 83 84 85 86 87 88 89 90 91 92 93 94 95 96 97 98 99 100 101 102 103 104 105 106 107 108 109 110 111 112 113 114 115 116 117 118 119 120 121 122 123 124 125 126 127 128 129

Rank 1 2 3

Kittery RSU 17, Paris Saco Lisbon RSU 40, Waldoboro RSU 51, Cumberland Sedgwick Auburn RSU 16, Poland AOS 98 - Edgecomb RSU 02, Hallowell Brewer Greenville South Portland RSU 15, Gray RSU 53, Pittsfield RSU 19, Newport AOS 95 - SAD 27, Fort Kent RSU 24, Sullivan Calais Hermon RSU 35, Eliot RSU 12, Windsor Appleton RSU 61, Bridgton AOS 98 - Boothbay-Boothbay Harbor CSD Dayton AOS 93 - South Bristol RSU 25, Bucksport RSU 49, Fairfield Deer Isle-Stonington CSD RSU 74, Anson Five Town CSD RSU 28, Camden RSU 73, Jay-Livermore Hancock Lamoine RSU 44, Bethel Winslow AOS 90 - SAD 30, Lee RSU 10, Rumford RSU 50, Southern Aroostook Sebago Blue Hill RSU 33, St. Agatha RSU 83, Bingham RSU 59, Madison RSU 52, Turner Fayette AOS 77 - Alexander RSU 03, Unity RSU 04, Sabattus AOS 90 - Baileyville RSU 89, Patten Woodland RSU 13, Seacoast RSU 38, Maranacook RSU 80, Guilford AOS 77 - RSU 85, Lubec Winthrop AOS 94 - Harmony Foxcroft Academy Milford RSU 68, Dover-Foxcroft RSU 70, Hodgdon Glenburn RSU 39, Caribou RSU 54, Skowhegan RSU 31, Howland RSU 18, Oakland RSU 67, Lincoln AOS 77 - Charlotte Moosabec CSD Veazie St. George RSU 58, Phillips RSU 56 - Dixfield Millinocket RSU 34, Old Town Sanford Medway RSU 87, Carmel AOS 94 - SAD 46, Dexter RSU 84, Danforth RSU 26, Orono AOS 77 - Pembroke RSU 09, Farmington RSU 55, Porter RSU 78, Rangeley RSU 45, Washburn RSU 29, Houlton East Millinocket AVERAGE

$20.83 $20.83 $20.80 $20.73 $20.73 $20.65 $20.63 $20.51 $20.45 $20.42 $20.42 $20.32 $20.31 $20.28 $20.25 $20.24 $20.15 $20.00 $20.00 $19.96 $19.90 $19.85 $19.80 $19.78 $19.78 $19.70 $19.59 $19.54 $19.50 $19.50 $19.48 $19.47 $19.41 $19.41 $19.39 $19.36 $19.36 $19.34 $19.29 $19.17 $19.13 $19.01 $19.01 $19.00 $18.99 $18.88 $18.87 $18.83 $18.82 $18.77 $18.75 $18.75 $18.66 $18.66 $18.66 $18.65 $18.28 $18.25 $18.20 $18.11 $18.10 $18.09 $18.09 $18.09 $18.04 $18.02 $18.00 $17.95 $17.92 $17.90 $17.87 $17.75 $17.60 $17.60 $17.58 $17.55 $17.51 $17.47 $17.41 $17.29 $17.18 $17.10 $17.06 $16.74 $16.64 $16.57 $16.44 $16.35 $16.35 $16.30 $16.23 $14.94 $19.88

ED TECH II School District Southern Aroostook Region 2 RSU 17, Paris York

MAX $28.31 $27.93 $26.99

4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 44 45 46 47 48 49 50 51 52 53 54 55 56 57 58 59 60 61 62 63 64 65 66 67 68 69 70 71 72 73 74 75 76 77 78 79 80 81 82 83 84 85 86 87 88 89 90 91 92 93 94 95 96 97 98 99 100 101 102

South Portland Acton Augusta RSU 14, Windham Portland RSU 75, Topsham RSU 49, Fairfield RSU 72, Fryeburg RSU 01, Bath West Bath Brunswick Cape Elizabeth RSU 20, Searsport RSU 02, Hallowell Waterville Saco Yarmouth RSU 71, Belfast Waldo Region 7 RSU 21, Kennebunk Scarborough Falmouth Gorham Westbrook Bangor RSU 06, Buxton Biddeford Athens RSU 23, Old Orchard Beach Madawaska RSU 57, Alfred AOS 91 - Bar Harbor Lewiston RSU 15, Gray Brooklin RSU 05, Freeport RSU 73, Jay-Livermore RSU 41, Milo AOS 93 - Great Salt Bay CSD RSU 22, Hampden RSU 12, Windsor RSU 51, Cumberland Wiscasset RSU 60, Berwick Vassalboro RSU 40, Waldoboro RSU 11, Gardiner Kittery Five Town CSD RSU 28, Camden Greenville RSU 50, Southern Aroostook Ellsworth Auburn RSU 44, Bethel RSU 10, Rumford Hermon RSU 53, Pittsfield Winslow RSU 19, Newport RSU 89, Patten Appleton AOS 90 - SAD 30, Lee RSU 59, Madison AOS 95 - SAD 27, Fort Kent Lisbon RSU 61, Bridgton Brewer Dayton RSU 74, Anson RSU 16, Poland Sedgwick Sebago AOS 93 - South Bristol AOS 98 - Edgecomb St. George RSU 35, Eliot Hancock Lamoine RSU 24, Sullivan RSU 13, Seacoast RSU 54, Skowhegan AOS 94 - Harmony Winthrop Sanford RSU 56 - Dixfield RSU 83, Bingham RSU 03, Unity RSU 18, Oakland RSU 67, Lincoln AOS 98 - Boothbay-Boothbay Harbor CSD Blue Hill Glenburn RSU 25, Bucksport RSU 38, Maranacook RSU 33, St. Agatha AOS 90 - Baileyville Woodland RSU 04, Sabattus

$26.50 $26.36 $26.05 $25.65 $25.64 $25.63 $25.57 $25.49 $25.36 $25.30 $25.25 $24.79 $24.64 $24.44 $24.42 $24.25 $24.17 $23.95 $23.94 $23.82 $23.81 $23.79 $23.78 $23.65 $23.63 $23.60 $23.46 $23.36 $23.33 $23.28 $23.26 $23.23 $23.19 $23.14 $23.10 $23.03 $23.03 $23.00 $22.94 $22.90 $22.84 $22.83 $22.82 $22.72 $22.68 $22.54 $22.46 $22.39 $22.35 $22.35 $22.34 $22.27 $22.11 $22.07 $22.04 $22.02 $21.90 $21.90 $21.71 $21.69 $21.68 $21.56 $21.54 $21.46 $21.36 $21.33 $21.32 $21.26 $21.26 $21.24 $21.22 $21.21 $21.12 $21.10 $21.05 $21.04 $20.84 $20.75 $20.75 $20.75 $20.65 $20.65 $20.55 $20.55 $20.52 $20.45 $20.41 $20.40 $20.34 $20.34 $20.32 $20.30 $20.27 $20.25 $20.11 $20.05 $20.04 $20.04 $20.00

103 104 105 106 107 108 109 110 111 112 113 114 115 116 117 118 119 120 121 122 123 124 125 126 127 128 129 130 131 132

AOS 77 - Alexander Fayette RSU 80, Guilford Milford RSU 34, Old Town AOS 77 - RSU 85, Lubec Veazie Foxcroft Academy RSU 68, Dover-Foxcroft RSU 87, Carmel RSU 70, Hodgdon Deer Isle-Stonington CSD RSU 39, Caribou RSU 52, Turner RSU 29, Houlton RSU 09, Farmington Millinocket RSU 31, Howland Moosabec CSD AOS 94 - SAD 46, Dexter RSU 58, Phillips RSU 78, Rangeley RSU 26, Orono AOS 77 - Pembroke AOS 77 - Charlotte Medway RSU 55, Porter RSU 84, Danforth RSU 45, Washburn East Millinocket AVERAGE

$19.88 $19.82 $19.75 $19.70 $19.69 $19.60 $19.60 $19.57 $19.57 $19.56 $19.53 $19.48 $19.25 $19.21 $19.04 $18.76 $18.72 $18.67 $18.60 $18.42 $18.26 $18.22 $18.19 $18.05 $18.00 $17.88 $17.60 $17.17 $16.40 $15.82 $21.74

Rank 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 44 45 46 47 48 49 50 51 52 53 54 55 56 57 58 59 60 61 62 63 64 65

ED TECH III School District Acton West Bath RSU 01, Bath Southern Aroostook Region 2 RSU 17, Paris York Portland Brewer RSU 20, Searsport Cape Elizabeth RSU 21, Kennebunk Waldo Region 7 RSU 71, Belfast Augusta Waterville Brunswick RSU 14, Windham South Portland RSU 02, Hallowell RSU 51, Cumberland Falmouth RSU 75, Topsham Wiscasset Saco RSU 50, Southern Aroostook RSU 72, Fryeburg Scarborough RSU 44, Bethel RSU 23, Old Orchard Beach Yarmouth Appleton RSU 41, Milo Athens RSU 12, Windsor RSU 06, Buxton RSU 57, Alfred RSU 89, Patten RSU 73, Jay-Livermore RSU 60, Berwick Bangor RSU 40, Waldoboro RSU 22, Hampden Lisbon RSU 05, Freeport RSU 74, Anson Madawaska Westbrook Greenville RSU 54, Skowhegan Gorham RSU 10, Rumford AOS 91 - Bar Harbor Kittery RSU 15, Gray Five Town CSD RSU 28, Camden Hermon Lewiston RSU 11, Gardiner RSU 19, Newport Ellsworth RSU 67, Lincoln AOS 93 - Great Salt Bay CSD Auburn Dayton

MAX $30.71 $30.19 $30.18 $29.47 $28.54 $28.41 $28.11 $27.97 $27.46 $27.24 $26.99 $26.94 $26.79 $26.78 $26.75 $26.63 $26.53 $26.50 $26.42 $26.28 $26.25 $26.11 $26.11 $26.00 $25.69 $25.49 $25.36 $25.28 $25.22 $25.17 $25.07 $25.00 $24.99 $24.95 $24.94 $24.88 $24.85 $24.82 $24.80 $24.74 $24.62 $24.58 $24.52 $24.50 $24.44 $24.42 $24.40 $24.37 $24.37 $24.33 $24.26 $24.23 $24.19 $24.14 $24.12 $24.12 $23.90 $23.90 $23.86 $23.82 $23.80 $23.74 $23.66 $23.64 $23.62

66 67 68 69 70 71 72 73 74 75 76 77 78 79 80 81 82 83 84 85 86 87 88 89 90 91 92 93 94 95 96 97 98 99 100 101 102 103 104 105 106 107 108 109 110 111 112 113 114 115 116 117 118 119 120 121 122 123 124 125 126 127 128 129 130 131 132

Rank 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27

RSU 09, Farmington St. George Vassalboro Winslow Brooklin RSU 53, Pittsfield Hancock Lamoine RSU 03, Unity Winthrop RSU 49, Fairfield RSU 61, Bridgton Fayette AOS 95 - SAD 27, Fort Kent AOS 90 - SAD 30, Lee RSU 13, Seacoast RSU 38, Maranacook RSU 56 - Dixfield Sanford Sebago Glenburn RSU 83, Bingham RSU 16, Poland RSU 29, Houlton Blue Hill AOS 90 - Baileyville Woodland AOS 93 - South Bristol RSU 35, Eliot RSU 18, Oakland AOS 94 - Harmony Sedgwick RSU 04, Sabattus RSU 52, Turner Veazie RSU 24, Sullivan AOS 98 - Edgecomb RSU 59, Madison Calais RSU 34, Old Town RSU 80, Guilford Milford RSU 33, St. Agatha AOS 77 - RSU 85, Lubec AOS 77 - Alexander East Millinocket RSU 87, Carmel RSU 25, Bucksport RSU 39, Caribou AOS 98 - Boothbay-Boothbay Harbor CSD RSU 78, Rangeley RSU 70, Hodgdon Foxcroft Academy RSU 68, Dover-Foxcroft Medway Deer Isle-Stonington CSD RSU 31, Howland RSU 26, Orono RSU 55, Porter Millinocket AOS 94 - SAD 46, Dexter RSU 58, Phillips AOS 77 - Pembroke AOS 77 - Charlotte Moosabec CSD RSU 84, Danforth RSU 45, Washburn AVERAGE SECRETARY School District York RSU 01, Bath West Bath Saco Acton Yarmouth RSU 51, Cumberland Falmouth RSU 14, Windham Appleton RSU 72, Fryeburg Waldo Region 7 RSU 60, Berwick Brunswick RSU 39, Caribou Five Town CSD RSU 28, Camden Winslow RSU 34, Old Town Augusta Gorham RSU 05, Freeport AOS 91 - Bar Harbor Athens RSU 23, Old Orchard Beach Kittery RSU 02, Hallowell

$23.60 $23.59 $23.59 $23.44 $23.10 $23.10 $22.99 $22.99 $22.90 $22.87 $22.79 $22.77 $22.75 $22.71 $22.65 $22.65 $22.59 $22.57 $22.56 $22.53 $22.52 $22.32 $22.25 $22.16 $22.12 $21.91 $21.91 $21.88 $21.88 $21.82 $21.75 $21.72 $21.70 $21.68 $21.60 $21.50 $21.47 $21.46 $21.29 $21.28 $21.25 $21.22 $21.10 $21.00 $20.99 $20.99 $20.98 $20.85 $20.66 $20.62 $20.58 $20.33 $20.30 $20.30 $20.24 $20.21 $19.96 $19.84 $19.83 $19.76 $19.75 $19.64 $19.54 $19.25 $18.85 $17.71 $16.61 $23.50 MAX $31.29 $27.38 $27.26 $27.25 $26.36 $26.15 $25.81 $25.71 $25.65 $25.47 $25.27 $24.93 $24.91 $24.60 $24.32 $24.12 $24.12 $23.95 $23.88 $23.87 $23.85 $23.81 $23.73 $23.67 $23.57 $23.34 $23.28

28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 44 45 46 47 48 49 50 51 52 53 54 55 56 57 58 59 60 61 62 63 64 65 66 67 68 69 70 71 72 73 74 75 76 77

RSU 40, Waldoboro RSU 61, Bridgton RSU 20, Searsport RSU 22, Hampden Bangor Greenville RSU 15, Gray RSU 71, Belfast Millinocket RSU 17, Paris Calais RSU 31, Howland RSU 12, Windsor RSU 19, Newport Lisbon RSU 49, Fairfield RSU 06, Buxton Wiscasset AOS 93 - Great Salt Bay CSD RSU 38, Maranacook RSU 83, Bingham RSU 29, Houlton RSU 54, Skowhegan RSU 04, Sabattus RSU 25, Bucksport Auburn RSU 73, Jay-Livermore AOS 90 - SAD 30, Lee Winthrop RSU 44, Bethel RSU 67, Lincoln AOS 98 - Boothbay-Boothbay Harbor CSD Blue Hill RSU 10, Rumford Glenburn RSU 24, Sullivan RSU 03, Unity RSU 78, Rangeley AOS 77 - Pembroke AOS 77 - RSU 85, Lubec RSU 80, Guilford AOS 93 - South Bristol AOS 94 - SAD 46, Dexter RSU 09, Farmington RSU 16, Poland AOS 77 - Alexander RSU 26, Orono AOS 94 - Harmony AOS 77 - Charlotte RSU 84, Danforth AVERAGE

$22.95 $22.84 $22.77 $22.71 $22.43 $22.41 $22.39 $22.06 $22.05 $21.93 $21.63 $21.49 $21.47 $21.40 $21.33 $21.32 $21.29 $21.23 $21.14 $21.06 $20.87 $20.86 $20.84 $20.75 $20.75 $20.71 $20.71 $20.36 $20.35 $20.34 $20.34 $20.32 $20.30 $20.29 $20.27 $20.00 $19.75 $19.44 $19.40 $19.35 $19.25 $19.15 $19.04 $18.76 $18.59 $18.58 $18.50 $18.10 $18.00 $17.21 $22.16

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25

pronominal reference from he/she to they; from his/her to their; from him/ her to them; from his/hers to theirs.

RATIONALE: To update the Bylaws for gender-inclusive language by using singular they for subject reference and its corresponding object and possessive forms.

SUBMITTED BY: M.White, on behalf of Structure & Bylaws Committee STRUCTURE & BYLAWS COMMITTEE RECOMMENDS: Ought to Pass

Each year, the MEA holds its Representative Assembly (RA), the democratic body of the Union. At the 96th annual RA members will discuss the following proposals seen on the next several pages.

Proposed Changes to Constitution ARTICLE VI. OFFICERS AND BOARD OF DIRECTORS Section 3. Terms of Office A. The Officers shall serve no more than two (2) three-year (3) terms to begin July 15. No officer Officers shall not be eligible to consecutively succeed himself/herself themselves more than once for the same position.

Officers who will have completed fewer than two (2) years of a vacated seat will be eligible to serve two (2) consecutive three-year (3) terms.

Officers who will have completed two (2) years or more of a vacated seat are eligible to serve one (1) additional three-year (3) term.

RATIONALE: The primary change is the replacement of himself/herself with themselves, in order to update to genderinclusive language. The secondary change is to pluralize the subject (Officers) and shift the negation to the verb, which is a stylistic choice to accommodate the change in pronoun, while maintaining the meaning of the original.

SUBMITTED BY: M.White, on behalf of Structure & Bylaws Committee STRUCTURE & BYLAWS COMMITTEE RECOMMENDS: Ought to Pass Proposed Changes to Bylaws ARTICLE: Any that may apply.

SECTION: Any that may apply.

PART: Any that may apply.

Wherever these changes can occur without introducing ambiguity to the referent, change all instances of 26

Maine Educator | Spring 2024

ARTICLE II. REPRESENTATIVE ASSEMBLY Section 2. Terms of Delegates and Alternates A. All terms of office of Representative Assembly delegates shall be for one year. three (3) years, or as specified on the official vacancy list as of August 31 of the current election year.

The terms shall begin and expire upon ratification of MEA election results.

RATIONALE: In practice, having threeyear terms has been confusing to many delegates and has been administratively time-consuming. Many delegates don’t know how long their terms are and many candidates don’t know the term length for the vacancy they are running to fill.

This confusion requires staff time to resolve which could be better spent on other association work. In addition, this change would put our practices in line with what many other state associations do throughout the NEA family.

SUBMITTED BY: Tom Walsh, Falmouth Education Association STRUCTURE & BYLAWS COMMITTEE RECOMMENDS: No Position ARTICLE VI. COMMITTEES Section 2. Standing Committees D. Statewide Bargaining and Organizing Committee A Statewide Bargaining and Organizing Committee shall consist of one (1) member with bargaining expertise from each UniServ District, one (1) education support professional member selected from the state at-large, one (1) Maine Education Association retired member, and one (1) student member. Where representation from each UniServ District is not feasible, the President shall have the option of filling committee positions with at-large appointments for not more than one (1) year. Committee members shall be appointed for threeyear (3) terms.

RATIONALE: Bargaining and organizing are inseparable. We organize around our bargaining goals.

SUBMITTED BY: Timothy Clifford, on behalf of Statewide Bargaining Committee

STRUCTURE & BYLAWS COMMITTEE RECOMMENDS: No Position ARTICLE X. GENERAL PROVISIONS Section 1. Indemnity Each officer, member of the Board of Directors, and employee of the Association shall be indemnified by the Association against expenses, including attorney's fees, judgments, fines and amounts paid in settlement, actually and reasonably incurred by him/her them in connection with any threatened, pending or completed action, suit or proceeding, whether civil, criminal, administrative or investigative (other than an action by or in the right of the Association), by the reason of the fact that he/she is they are or was were an officer, member of the Board of Directors or employee of the Association, or is or was serving at the request of the Association as a director, officer or employee of another corporation, partnership, joint venture, trust or other enterprise, if he/she they acted in good faith and in a manner he/ she they reasonably believed to be in the best interests of the Association and, with respect to any criminal action or proceeding, had no reasonable cause to believe that his or her their conduct was unlawful. The termination of any action, suit or proceeding by judgment, order, settlement, conviction or upon a plea of nolo contendere, or its equivalent, shall not, in itself, create a presumption that a person did not act in good faith and in a manner which he/she they reasonably believed to be in the best interests of the Association, and with respect to any criminal action or proceeding, had reasonable cause to believe that his or her their conduct was unlawful.

The Association shall have the power to purchase and maintain insurance on behalf of any person who is or was an officer, member of the Board of Directors or employee, or is or was serving at the request of the Association as an officer, director or employee of another corporation, partnership, joint venture, trust or other enterprise against any liability asserted against and incurred by him or her the person in any such capacity, or arising out of his or her their status as such, whether or not the Association has indemnified him or her them hereunder.

Expenses incurred in defending a civil or criminal action suit or proceeding may be paid by the Association in advance of the final disposition of such action, suit or proceeding as authorized by the Board of Directors in the manner provided by the applicable statutes of the State of Maine

concerning indemnification by nonprofit corporations currently contained in 13-B MRSA, Section 714, Sub-section 3, upon the receipt of an undertaking by or in behalf of the officer, member of the Board of Directors or employee, to repay such amount, unless it shall be ultimately determined that he/she is they are entitled to be indemnified as provided herein.

In the event that such action or proceeding be by or in the right of the Association, the Association shall have the same power to indemnify and insure any such officer, member of the Board of Directors or employee, except that no indemnification shall be made in respect of any claim, issue or matter as to which such person shall have been adjudged to be liable for negligence or misconduct in the performance of his or her their duty, unless the court wherein the action or proceeding is tried shall specifically find that despite the adjudication of liability, but in view of all the circumstances of the case, such a person is fairly and reasonably entitled to indemnity.

The indemnification provided by these Bylaws shall not be deemed exclusive of any other rights to which those indemnified may be entitled under any statute or regulation of the State of Maine.

As used in this provision, the terms "officer" and "member of the Board of Directors" include the respective heirs, executors and administrators of persons holding such offices in the Association.

The term "employee" means the following Association employees: the Executive Director, Deputy Executive Director and such other executive and supervisory employees as may be designated from time to time by the Board of Directors.

RATIONALE: Update for gender inclusive language and make necessary subject-verb agreement changes that may apply.

SUBMITTED BY: M.White, on behalf of Structure & Bylaws Committee STRUCTURE & BYLAWS COMMITTEE RECOMMENDS: Ought to Pass Proposed Changes to Standing rules RULE #: Any that may apply.

SECTION: Any that may apply.

PART: Any that may apply.

Wherever these changes can occur without introducing ambiguity to the referent, change all instances of pronominal reference from he/she to they; from his/her to their; from him/ her to them; from his/hers to theirs;

from himself/herself to themselves.

RATIONALE: To update pronominal reference in the document for gender inclusivity.

SUBMITTED BY: M.White, on behalf of Structure & Bylaws Committee STRUCTURE & BYLAWS COMMITTEE RECOMMENDS: Ought to Pass RULE 6: IMPLEMENTING CENSURE, SUSPENSION, EXPULSION Section 6. Appeal to the Board of Directors A. If the Judicial Board votes to censure, suspend, or expel the charged member, he or she the charged member may, within forty-five (45) days after the decision of the Judicial Board has been sent to him or her them, file a notice of appeal with the Board of Directors, together with any written arguments that he or she the member may desire to submit.

The charging party may file a written response within thirty (30) days of receipt of the notice of appeal and arguments submitted by the charged member. The charged member may file a reply within ten (10) days of receipt of any response by the charging party.

At the same time that they file any material with the Board of Directors, including but not limited to a notice of appeal, the charged member and the charging party shall send a copy of all such material to the other party by certified mail, return receipt requested.

RATIONALE: For disambiguation of referent when updating pronouns to THEY forms for the purpose of gender-inclusive language updates.

SUBMITTED BY: M.White, on behalf of Structure & Bylaws Committee STRUCTURE & BYLAWS COMMITTEE RECOMMENDS: Ought to Pass 2024 Proposed Resolutions 1 – Amendment to B1 RESOLVED: That the MEA believes every student has the right to receive an excellent education at a great public school. The MEA believes Great Public Schools have:

• safe, secure and supportive

environments for all students and staff • parent and community involvement and support • educator involvement in educational policy • fully qualified teachers and Education Support Professionals committed to students and their learning • appropriate funding and resources, including technology • appropriate technology and

accessibility

• highly skilled and collaborative professional leadership

• challenging curricula that are flexible, innovative, diverse, and complete and culturally and historically accurate • well-maintained facilities with appropriate space and proper heating/cooling/ventilation systems.

(Adopted 1995; Amended 1997; Amended 2002; Amended 2012; Amended 2013; Amended 2015; Amended 2019; Amended 2021) RATIONALE: The amendment promotes and supports antiracist education, by supporting an inclusive, equitable and diverse educated student body.

SUBMITTED BY: Resolutions Committee Jennifer Perry and Sonya Verney, CoChairs 2 – New B RESOLVED: The MEA believes that all Maine school districts create and maintain positions whose expressed purpose is to improve relations between students, faculty, caregivers, and the community.

Rationale: A position whose expressed purpose is to improve relations between students, faculty, caregivers, and the community is vital to ensure safe and healthy school communities.

SUBMITTED BY: Resolutions Committee Jennifer Perry and Sonya Verney, CoChairs 3 – New B RESOLVED: The MEA believes that all Maine schools should implement annual equity audits and commit to responsive action toward the outcomes of those audits. Equity audits are systemic examinations of data across schools and a district to understand where gaps to access and challenges to education equity exist.

RATIONALE: Effective equity audits ensure that school communities are safe and just for all Maine students SUBMITTED BY: Resolutions Committee Jennifer Perry and Sonya Verney, CoChairs 4 – Amendment to C4 RESOLVED: That the MEA supports pay equity for Education Support Professionals. That the MEA will pursue legislation for education support professionals to get paid at least 9% more than the highest of the City, MAINEEA.ORG

27

State, or Federal minimum wage as base pay. (Adopted 1987; Amended 2002) RATIONALE: Reflects NBI.10 language from 2022 SUBMITTED BY: Resolutions Committee Jennifer Perry and Sonya Verney, CoChairs 5 – Amendment to 21 RESOLVED: That the MEA supports legislative action to increase retired educators’ pension exemption from $10,000 $35,000 to parity with the social security exemption and exclude any social security benefit received from being used to reduce the deduction. (Adopted 2012; Amended 2016) RATIONALE: This amendment to C21 would align with the expected pension exemption by raising the amount in the current resolution from $10,000 to $35,000.

SUBMITTED BY: Resolutions Committee Jennifer Perry and Sonya Verney, CoChairs 6 - New D RESOLVED: That the MEA will support public Adult Education as long as all educators are part of the local bargaining units.

RATIONALE: Similar language to D.31 to include Public Adult Education SUBMITTED BY: Resolutions Committee Jennifer Perry and Sonya Verney, CoChairs 7 - Amendment to E22 RESOLVED: That the MEA believes that public schools should have the necessary resources and properly trained staff in order to ensure all students receive culturally competent and traumainformed services offered by the Response to Intervention (RTI) process. (Adopted 2010, Amended 2023).

RATIONALE: This strikes the language "offered by the Response to Intervention (RtI) process. With the growing use of the MTSS (multi-tiered systems of support) process, rather than RtI, we feel this broadens the language of the resolution to include RtI, MTSS, and other services students receive.

SUBMITTED BY: Resolutions Committee Jennifer Perry and Sonya Verney, CoChairs 8 – New E RESOLVED: The MEA believes that in order for students to become informed citizens, to develop critical 28

Maine Educator | Spring 2024

thinking skills, and to be prepared for the complex world in which we live, they need access to books and materials that include representation of all people and their identities, free from censorship.

RATIONALE: Formulated after the MEA Board of Directors position statement SUBMITTED BY: Resolutions Committee Jennifer Perry and Sonya Verney, CoChairs 9 – New E RESOLVED: MEA believes that all students, inclusive of their real or perceived identity, e.g.: race, religion, culture, language, ethnicity, national origin, ancestry, immigration status; age, health, disability; gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation; residency status or location, socioeconomic status, and/ or family makeup must have equitable access to a quality, well-rounded public education. We must ensure that all students are accepted, included, valued, respected, and supported.

The diverse needs of all students— academic, social, cultural, emotional, and physical—must be acknowledged, and resources and services must be provided that enable each student to be successful in their educational journey. All students must have access to a safe, caring, compassionate, wellresourced learning environment that prioritizes their well-being and their education, and that inspires a lifelong love of learning.

RATIONALE: A result of an NBI from the MEA RA in 2022.

Board of Directors position statement SUBMITTED BY: Human, Civil Rights & Social Justice Committee, Emily Albee & Olivia Brown, Co-Chairs 10 - New E RESOLVED: MEA believes that every child, student and educator deserves to live with peace, dignity and human rights and that all children, students and educators have the right to equitable and safe educational services, free from mental and physical harm.

RATIONALE: As educators, we believe that these are basic human rights.

SUBMITTED BY: Human, Civil Rights & Social Justice Committee and BIPOC Committee, Emily Albee & Olivia Brown, Co-Chairs of HCRSJ and Nesrene Griffin, Chair of BIPOC 11 - New E RESOLVED: MEA believes that all children, students and educators are protected from attacks as civilians

under International Humanitarian Law as specified by the Geneva Convention and that all children, students and educators have the right to access humanitarian aid (medical care, food, clean water and housing.)

RATIONALE: As educators, we believe that these are basic human rights.

SUBMITTED BY: Human, Civil Rights & Social Justice Committee and BIPOC Committee, Emily Albee & Olivia Brown, Co-Chairs of HCRSJ and Nesrene Griffin, Chair of BIPOC 12 - New E RESOLVED: MEA believes that United States tax dollars should not be utilized to support conflicts that violate International Humanitarian Law as specified by the Geneva Convention.

RATIONALE: As educators, we believe that these are basic human rights.

SUBMITTED BY: Human, Civil Rights & Social Justice Committee and BIPOC Committee, Emily Albee & Olivia Brown, Co-Chairs of HCRSJ and Nesrene Griffin, Chair of BIPOC 13 - New E - WITHDRAWN RESOLVED: MEA believes that all students, regardless of their race, religion, beliefs, culture, language, ethnicity, gender identity, gender expression, sexuality, special needs, location, and socioeconomic status, must have equitable access to a quality, well-rounded public education. We must ensure that all students are accepted, included, valued, respected, and supported.

The diverse needs of all students— academic, social, and emotional— must be acknowledged, and resources and services must be provided that enable each student to be successful in their educational journey. All students must be able to learn in a safe, caring, compassionate, well-resourced environment that prioritizes their well-being and their education, and that inspires a lifelong love of learning so that all can become productive members of our society.RATIONALE: An NBI called on MEA to define 'educational equity'; this statement is a compilation/distillation of input gathered from MEA RA delegates, committees, and the Board of Directors.

SUBMITTED BY: Individual, Grace Leavitt, MSAD 51 EA/MEA 2024 New Business Items 1 – RESOLVED: The MEA will develop and offer a pre-retirement seminar specifically for Education Support Professionals.

RATIONALE: In addition to the existing pre-retirement seminars held for all members, ESP members would benefit from a seminar focusing on retirement issues specific to them. For example: differences in the State’s contribution to retiree health insurance, and different return to work restrictions. This seminar could also serve as a sounding board for organizing in support of improved ESP retirement benefits.

MEA Program Support Services Goal, Objective #3: #3. Create and maintain communications vehicles that enable a common understanding of MEA priorities and offer members and affiliate leaders easy access to information.

SUBMITTED BY: Individual, Tim Clifford, Augusta EA Estimated budgetary impact: Unknown 2 – RESOLVED: The MEA will develop a working definition of an Equity Lens and provide training on how this can be facilitated by the monitors within the committees.

RATIONALE: Committee members are eager to serve but need training in order to successfully fulfill their responsibilities.

MEA as an Organizing Goal, Objective #2: #2. Increase member's level of grassroots participation.

SUBMITTED BY: MEA Committee, Instruction and Professional Development Committee, Robert Kuech Estimated budgetary impact: $0 2 – RESOLVED: The MEA will develop a working definition of an Equity Lens and provide training on how this can be facilitated by the monitors within the committees.

RATIONALE: Committee members are eager to serve but need training in order to successfully fulfill their responsibilities.

MEA as an Organizing Goal, Objective #2: #2. Increase member's level of grassroots participation.

SUBMITTED BY: MEA Committee, Instruction and Professional Development Committee, Robert Kuech Estimated budgetary impact: $0 3– WITHDRAWN RESOLVED: The MEA will provide training for committee members to successfully fulfill their responsibilities.

RATIONALE: Committee members are eager to serve but need training in order to successfully fulfill their responsibilities.

MEA Program Support Services Goal, Objective #8: #8. Utilize human resource policies that provide MEA the staff capacity to advance the work of the Association.

SUBMITTED BY: MEA Committee,

Instruction and Professional Development Committee, Robert Kuech Estimated budgetary impact: $0 4– RESOLVED: The MEA will work to pass legislation that requires the state to compensate student teachers and their mentor teachers.

RATIONALE: The critical workforce shortage in public education has been made worse by a mandatory unpaid 4-month internship required for aspiring educators seeking certification as teachers.

Student teachers often need to leave previous employment to accommodate the demanding time commitments of their internship, making it difficult to meet essential expenses. This forces potential new educators to choose between pursuing their dream vs. meeting tuition, rent, food, transportation, and medical costs.

MEA Quality of Learning Goal, Objective #3: #3. Ensure adequate funding and resources for all public schools SUBMITTED BY: MEA Committee, Instruction and Professional Development Committee, Robert Kuech Estimated budgetary impact: Unkown 5– RESOLVED: The MEA Board will investigate ways to allow some committees to choose their own meeting dates so meeting dates can best be aligned with their charge and responsibilities.

RATIONALE: Because which committees charge is unique the timing of the work is also unique. Giving each committee more choice about when they meet would allow committees to meet when the timing is more aligned with their charge and goals for the year.

MEA Program Support Services Goal, Objective #8: #8. Utilize human resource policies that provide MEA the staff capacity to advance the work of the Association.

SUBMITTED BY: MEA Committee, Instruction and Professional Development Committee, Robert Kuech Estimated budgetary impact: $0

Save the Date!

96th MEA RA May 18-19

Sable Oaks - South Portland 2024 MEA Election Results UNCONTESTED ELECTIONS Board of Directors Kendrah Willey District C 2-Year Term Thresa Mitchell District E 3-Year Term Hillary Koch District F 3-Year Term Valerie Pinkham District G 2-Year Term Michael Grillo District O 3-Year Term Lisa Henderson District P 2-Year Term Jay Nicholson ESP 2-Year Term NEA RA District Delegates Kerrie Dowdy District 22 2-Year Term Hilary Koch District 26 2-Year Term Michael Ellison District 28 2-Year Term MEA-Retired Delegates/Alternates to NEA RA Claudette O'Connell Alternate 1-Year Term MEA-Retired Delegates/Alternates to MEA RA Claudette O'Connell Alternate 3-Year Term James Ford Alternate 1-Year Term MEA RA Cluster Districts Delegates Tamber Craig

Cluster District 18

3-Year Term

CONTESTED ELECTIONS NEA RA District Delegates Gabrielle Jackson District 24 2-Year Term Elizabeth Hall District 25 2-Year Term NEA RA At-Large Delegates Ina Demers 1-Year Term Terry Martin 1-Year Term MEA-Retired Delegates to NEA RA Robert Zabierek 1-Year Term Bernard Paradis 1-Year Term Belinda Micucci 1-Year Term James Ford 1-Year Term MEA-Retired Delegates to MEA RA Jennifer Perry 3-Year Term Gary McGrane 3-Year Term Doug Larlee 3-Year Term Marilyn Burton 3-Year Term

MAINEEA.ORG

29

PERSPECTIVES

The Importance of Shared Governance at the University

By Paul Johnson, Professor, University of Southern Maine and Jacqueline Edmondson, USM President

T

he concept of shared faculty governance, wherein the faculty and administrators have responsibilities in the decision-making processes of the University, is a unique and fragile relationship. Faculty are responsible for academic work that includes developing curriculum, teaching classes, producing scholarship, advising students, and serving on department, school, and university committees. They also are stewards of the professional standards of their respective disciplines, and they need to ensure these standards are upheld at their respective institutions.

Faculty often have institutional memories that administrators may not have given the shorter appointment terms of administrator contracts.

Hence, we have arrived at the notion of shared governance. How can faculty and administration work together to meet the numerous challenges that face their university and serve the interests of their students and the citizens of Maine? We suggest several conditions that lead to successful shared governance.

Administrators are charged with leading universities, enacting a vision that results in success for the institution, and fiscal stewardship. While there are expectations for shared governance that extend to the System Chancellor and Board of Trustee level, we focus here on the shared governance enacted at the university level between the administration (president, provost, vice presidents, and deans) and faculty.

Secondly, both parties need to be committed to open and transparent communication. Through open and honest dialogue, both parties can identify the issues that need to be addressed, and both can come to understandings about the potential solutions. While complete consensus may not be possible, it is through open communication that trust can be established.

Upon assuming the role of president, one wields significant power. The provost and deans are subject to the president's discretion, and it is common for a president to appoint their own staff who support the vision and priorities of the president.

This affects shared governance because a power imbalance exists by design.

The president holds significant sway and authority within the university; however, presidents, to be effective, should acknowledge that the relationship between faculty and administration is a dynamic and interdependent one. What is often overlooked or misunderstood is that these two entities - administration and faculty - are mutually influential, with their interactions constantly shaping and affecting one another.

30

Maine Educator | Spring 2024

Firstly, there needs to be a relationship between the administration and the faculty that involves mutual respect.

Through these sound relationships, time and energy can be spent on productively advancing the university.

To foster these relationships, they must spend time together through regularly scheduled meetings and intentional correspondence.

Thirdly, both parties need to clearly understand one another’s roles and responsibilities within the university. This helps to establish processes that are clear and lead to solutions.

All the aforementioned demonstrate the importance of working together. That is not to say that both groups will not have disagreements. But, for this concept of shared governance to work, there has to be a willingness to meet with one another, talk to one another, listen to one another, and disagree with one another respectfully.

If both parties are not willing to engage in this process, then the outcomes are not good. Either group will probably attempt to exert its power negatively. Over the past two decades, we have seen this played out at the University of Southern Maine.

There have been votes of no confidence in

past presidents, with retrenchments and program eliminations.

The impact of this issue has been significant and long-lasting. The University has observed a downward trend in both student enrollment and retention rates, along with a decrease in financial support. Moreover, there has been a departure of faculty and staff members, making it arduous to find suitable replacements. Additionally, securing qualified individuals with the requisite administrative skills and a readiness to undertake leadership roles at the University has proved to be a formidable obstacle.

Hence, shared governance is vital to the success of a university. With universities competing for students and the lack of state appropriations, it is vital that the University of Southern Maine not only embrace the concept of shared governance but also demonstrate that we are actively utilizing it. Students, parents, community members, philanthropic organizations, members of the legislature, and members of the Board of Trustees need tangible outcomes that demonstrate how the University is working together.

The University has made impressive strides recently, with notable improvements in first to second-year retention rates and evidence of some optimistic enrollment trends. This semester, the Portland Campus has seen the unveiling of the McGoldrick Center for Career and Student Success and a state-of-the-art residential quad.

Additionally, there are exciting plans for the construction of a new arts center on the Portland Campus.

The reason these points are significant is that they are evidence of support and backing from students, faculty, staff, administration, and the community.

These are wonderful examples of shared governance in action at USM.

Paul Johnson

Jacqueline Edmonson

Editor's Note | Spring 2024 S am anth a B urdi ck

Jamani!

H

ello MEA! I am excited to introduce myself as the newest member of the MEA team and the new editor of Educator Magazine.

This Educator edition is special to me, not only because it’s my first, but because it was also an opportunity to connect with former colleagues from RSU 1, where I enjoyed my first few years in the classroom. It was truly an honor to witness the inclusion work that Morse High School is doing and see a few of my former middle school students and their siblings involved; I left feeling nostalgic and inspired.

After teaching in Maine, I spent a year teaching 3rd grade in Moshi, Tanzania, where I learned one of my favorite words—jamani! Jamani is a Swahili slang word, which loosely translated means “OMG.” It has become a word that I only say in Swahili, typically in the middle of an English sentence, always forgetting that most people have no idea what I am talking about. Either way, jamani is used frequently in my house.

I will never forget my first ‘jamani’ moment. I had only been in Tanzania for a few hours, not long enough for the jet lag to wear off. I was painting my classroom in preparation for school to start, and sure enough, my iPhone fell right into the bucket of paint.

After a little bit of panic, because there wasn’t an Apple store in Tanzania, and then a little problem-solving (luckily, the 'stick it in rice’ trick works), I was able to salvage my iPhone, at least enough to get by until I returned to the States. Did it work perfectly? No, but it worked well enough to stay connected with family and friends and serve as a hot spot for my classroom laptop to stream their favorite BrainPOP videos.

I was reminded of this story while talking to Maine Teacher of the Year, Joshua Chard. He said, “That’s what Educators do. We are problem solvers.” Every day, each one of you solves problems for your students, whether it is sticking some leftover fruit in their backpacks because you know they don’t have a full refrigerator at home, troubleshooting a technology issue, or finding ways to meet the needs of the diverse learners in your classrooms. These days it seems like the challenges are ever present in our communities and schools.

So, the next time one of those problems seems a little too big to handle at the moment, let this be your permission to say, “jamani,” and give yourself the space to problem-solve it later.

Samantha Burdick Director of Communications & Editor editor@maineea.org MAINEEA.ORG

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