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Friday, December 5, 2025

Maine DOE Launches GIS World Language Educator Map to Support Expansion of World Language Opportunities Statewide


Maine - 
The Maine Department of Education (DOE) is introducing a new resource designed to support the expansion of world language opportunities for students across the state: the Graphic Information System (GIS) World Language Educator Map.

Available on the Maine DOE World Languages webpage, this interactive map provides a statewide view of where world

Maine DOE Announces Nominees for 2026 RISE Award


Maine - 
The Maine Department of Education (DOE) is pleased to announce the nominees and top 10 finalists for the 2026 Recognizing Inspiring School Employees (RISE) Award.

Created by Congress in 2019 and

Bringing Maine’s Ocean Economy Together


Task Force outlines how statewide coordination can help Maine communities and businesses compete and grow

AUGUSTA, Maine — The Department of Economic and Community Development (DECD) today released the final report of the Legislature’s Blue Economy Task Force. Lawmakers asked the Task Force to: (1) provide guidance on what a statewide Blue Economy Center should focus on and how it could be structured, and (2) recommend

Thursday, December 4, 2025

BoardWise Launches Trauma-Informed Care Packages for Professionals Facing Licensing Board Complaints

A first-of-its-kind movement bringing compassion, dignity, and calm to one of the most stressful experiences in a professional’s career.

Professionals going through licensing investigations are terrified, and no one ever shows up for their emotional state.”
— Kara M. Voisine, RN

YORK, ME, UNITED STATES, December 4, 2025 /EINPresswire.com/ -- BoardWise, the technology platform helping licensed professionals navigate board complaints with clarity and calm, today announced the launch of its trauma-informed Care Package Initiative, a groundbreaking effort to bring emotional support, grounding, and dignity to nurses and other professionals facing investigations by their licensing boards.

Each care package includes curated calming items, handwritten notes, and supportive

Wednesday, December 3, 2025

Hawkin Dynamics and Sports Academy Partner to Expand Access to Sport Science and Decentralize Performance Data

WESTBROOK, MaineDec. 3, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Hawkin Dynamics, the global leader in force measurement technology, is excited to announce a strategic partnership with Sports Academy, a premier destination for athlete development and performance training. This

The Jackson Laboratory CEO to Deliver Commencement Address at 127th Husson Graduation

A man gives a speech from a podium. He's gesturing with his hands.

Husson University is pleased to announce that Dr. Lon Cardon, President and CEO of The Jackson Laboratory, will deliver the address at the 127th Husson University Commencement on Saturday, May 9, 2026.

An internationally recognized geneticist and demonstrated leader in academic, pharma and

Senator Collins’ Statement on the Passing of Charles Norman Shay

CNS 3


WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Susan Collins issued the following statement on the passing of Charles Norman Shay, a decorated World War II and Korean War veteran and member of the Penobscot Nation, at the age of 101:

“I am deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Charles Norman Shay, a remarkable hero who made countless sacrifices to protect our country during World War II and the

Senator Collins’ Substance Use and Mental Illness Provisions Signed into Law

WASHINGTON, D.C. – The President signed into law the SUPPORT for Patients and Communities Reauthorization Act, a bipartisan bill that strengthens prevention, treatment, and recovery services for Americans with substance use disorders and mental illness. The legislation contains several provisions authored and supported by Senator Collins.

The opioid and mental health crises continue to devastate families and communities

Senator Collins Introduces Bipartisan Bill to Improve Federal Workers’ Access to Injury Compensation

12.2.25 Floor remarks pic

Click HERE to watch and HERE to download video of Senator Collins introducing the bill on the Senate floor

Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) introduced the bipartisan Improving Access to Workers’ Compensation for Injured Federal Workers Act. This legislation would allow Physician Assistants (PAs) and Nurse Practitioners (NPs) to certify injuries and oversee treatment for federal workers with injuries or illnesses that occurred on the job, when doing so is consistent with the scope of their practice under state law.

“In a large, rural state like Maine, finding access to health care close to home can be

Senator Collins Announces Release of Nearly $40 Million in Federal Home Heating Aid for Mainers

Release of funds follows written request earlier this month led by Senators Collins, Reed, and Murkowski

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Susan Collins, Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, announced today that the Department of Health and Human Services’ (HHS) Office of Community Services has released $39,780,472 million in Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) funding, with $38,321,610 million being allocated for the State of Maine and $1,458,862 million for the Indian Township and Pleasant Point Passamaquoddy, Penobscot, Maliseet, and Mi’kmaq Tribes in Maine. LIHEAP funding will help low-income households and seniors on fixed incomes in Maine afford their energy bills this winter.

Last month, Senators Collins, Jack Reed (D-RI), and Lisa Murkowski (R-AK) along

Smart Cities Adopt Bicycle and Tricycle Racks for Cleaner Commutes

CycleSimplex racks support smart cities' green transport with specialized solutions for bikes and trikes, promoting cleaner, safer, and more efficient commutes.

ALNA, ME, UNITED STATES, December 3, 2025 /EINPresswire.com/ -- As part of a growing effort to make urban transportation more sustainable, CycleSimplex, a U.S.-based manufacturer of specialized bicycle and tricycle racks, is seeing its rack systems

Governor Mills Statement on Passing of Charles Norman Shay

Governor Mills issued the following statement on the passing of decorated veteran and Penobscot tribal elder Charles Norman Shay:

"I am deeply saddened at the passing of Charles Norman Shay, whose bravery as a 19-year-old medic during D-Day saved Allied lives on Omaha Beach. Charles and his three brothers served valiantly during World War II -- service during which Charles was held as a POW -- in defense of freedoms they themselves were not yet afforded, including the right to vote. Charles later served with selflessness and distinction in the Korean War and Cold War, a record of service that has been honored by the Penobscot Nation, the United States, the State of Maine, and his adopted home of France, which bestowed upon him its highest award -- the Legion of Honor. I was proud to honor his vision by signing legislation in 2024 to establish a memorial for Wabanaki veterans of the U.S. Armed Forces, so their service and courage are remembered for generations to come. On behalf of the people of Maine, I mourn his passing, and offer my condolences to his loved ones, the Penobscot Nation, and to all the people Charles Shay inspired during his remarkable life."

Tuesday, December 2, 2025

#1 of 100 'Universal Artifact' Cast-Signed Blu-ray Auctioned for The American Cancer Society on Giving Tuesday

Meditative Animal creator Dr. Nick Mirisola, holding a PhD in Parapsychology and Paranormal Science, honors the memory of book contributor Frankie Ellison.

SANFORD, ME, UNITED STATES, December 2, 2025 /EINPresswire.com/ -- Moonlit Creative Works today announces a landmark philanthropic event at the intersection of high-concept art, forensic science, and celebrity memorabilia. To mark

BREAKING: Area Fire Units Working Dexter Street Thomaston Fire (KNOCKED DOWN)

Update: Command reporting fire knocked down, no extension to the second floor, overhaul.
BREAKING: Thomaston, Maine - Area fire departments are working a structure fire on Dexter Street this afternoon, December 2nd, 2025 in Thomaston, Maine.

Dexter Street shut down, fire reported in the back.

Monday, December 1, 2025

Maine DOE and Maine Chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics Launch Asynchronous School Health Webinar Series


Maine - 
The Maine Department of Education (DOE) Coordinated School Health Team is excited to announce the launch of the School Health Webinar Series, presented in partnership with the Maine Chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP)This series is designed for Maine school health professionals, pediatricians, school health advisors, and others working to support student health and well-being.

This asynchronous educational series begins on December 1, 2025, with a new installment

Lewiston Public Schools Expands Access to Music for All Students Through Title IV, Part A Funding


Lewiston, Maine
Lewiston Public Schools (LPS) is striking a new chord in terms of student engagement and equity. Through a strategic Title IV, Part A investment, the district has transformed its instrumental music program, ensuring that every student—regardless of financial circumstances—has access to the joy and opportunity of music education.

Title IV, Part A of the federal

From Maine to the Main Stage: Maine FFA Members Receive National Recognition in Indianapolis


Pictured from left to right: Maine State FFA Officers Jillian McLaughlin (L)and Callie Cullins (R) , with Poland FFA Members Sierra Hemond, Lea Marchesseault, Lachlan Newell, and Nolan Davis.

Maine - In October, the Maine FFA was proudly represented by five amazing chapters at the 98th National FFA Convention and Expo, held in Indianapolis, Indiana. The National FFA Convention brings in thousands of FFA members from across the country, as well as Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. While at the convention, members and advisors have an opportunity to attend outstanding workshops facilitated by national staff, visit the ever-growing career expo, and network with agribusiness professionals from all industry sectors.


At the National FFA Convention, a select group of members also participates in the National

Medomak Valley High School Student Wins Logo Design Contest for Maine Attendance Campaign


Maine - 
The Maine Engagement and Attendance Center (MEAC), a cross-departmental collaborative within the Maine Department of Education (DOE), is excited to announce the winner of its logo design contest, launched earlier this fall as part of Attendance Awareness Month in September.

This initiative invited schools across the state to host their own logo design contests based

Connecting Students to Maine’s Trucking Industry: Career Exploration Unit Highlights Trucking and Skilled Trades


Maine - 
The Maine Department of Education (DOE) is committed to expanding career pathways that lead students toward meaningful, in-demand professions. In partnership with the Maine Motor Transport Association (MMTA), the Maine DOE is proud to highlight the “Go. Your Way. Maine” workforce development campaign and Career Exploration Unit, an experiential learning resource designed to introduce students to careers in Maine’s trucking industry.

Maine’s economy depends on the movement of goods and services, and the trucking

Registration Open for the 2026 Maine School Winter Wellness Summit


Maine
The Maine Department of Education (DOE) Employee Health Promotion and Wellness Program is pleased to be hosting the 2026 Maine School Winter Wellness Summit on Thursday, January 29 and Friday, January 30 at the Samoset Resort in Rockport. This year’s theme is, “Finding Strength Through Hope.”

This event aims to educate, inspire, and empower participants. When adults working in a

Opportunity for SAUs to Save on Goods and Services Through State’s Master Agreements

Maine - Is your school administrative unit (SAU) looking for cost-saving measures? Maine schools can use some of the State’s Master Agreements to benefit from State pricing on goods and services from many vendors.

This list of State Master Agreements from the Maine Department of Administrative and Financial Services (DAFS) Office of State Procurement Services has information about the commodities/services provided by vendors such as W.B. Mason, Grainger, etc. If a “Y” is listed in the last column of the table, entitled “MUNI” for municipal, the vendor participates in State pricing for schools.

To learn more about a particular Master Agreement, click the hyperlink in the table associated with the buyer’s name. That will allow you to directly email the State buyer with questions.

When ordering from a vendor, please be prepared to provide the Master Agreement number to obtain the State price.

For more information, please visit the Maine DAFS Master Agreements webpage.

Portland High School Senior Becomes Published Author Through The Telling Room


Portland, Maine
Portland High School senior Ramona Rowe will head to college next year with an extraordinary achievement already under her belt: She’s a published novelist.

Rowe’s debut novel, Factory Town, was

Friday, November 28, 2025

Maine Bluesmen Cryin’ Out Loud Release 'Moonshine Lover' Music Video Honoring Multi-Generational Songwriting Legacy

Cryin' Out Loud "Moonshine Lover" Video Shoot

Cryin' Out Loud "Moonshine Lover" Video Shoot

Scene from "Moonshine Lover" by Cryin' Out Loud

Scene from "Moonshine Lover" by Cryin' Out Loud

Cryin' Out Loud Band Logo

Cryin' Out Loud Band Logo

When Scott Stallard wrote his song "Moonshine Lover" in 1970, could he possibly have imagined drumming it in a music video with his son Brandon 56 years later?

Shooting the [Moonshine Lover] video was a really emotional experience for both of us...It’s something we’ll have forever — something that documents what this song means to our family.”

BAR HARBOR, ME, UNITED STATES, November 28, 2025 /EINPresswire.com/ -- Celebrating Thanksgiving in their own special way, Maine blues-rock band Cryin’ Out Loud has released a new music video for “Moonshine Lover,” a song that carries a rare

Monday, November 24, 2025

MaineHealth Pen Bay Hospital Emphasizes the Importance of Lung Health

ROCKPORT, ME — Lung health plays a vital role in daily life, influencing energy levels, heart function, sleep quality, mental well-being and more. Yet, changes in a person’s breathing often go unnoticed until they become serious.

“The worst thing you can do is ignore changes to your breathing,” said Suzan Collins, lung

Governor Mills, U.S. Rep. Pingree Hold Roundtable with Maine Consumers on Skyrocketing Health Insurance Premiums

Consumers, health care providers and insurance experts decry Federal gridlock on extending critical tax credits for ACA insurance premiums

South Portland, MAINE -- Governor Janet Mills and U.S. Representative Chellie Pingree today met with Maine consumers who are facing skyrocketing health care costs amid Republican resistance to extending key Federal tax credits before the end of the year.

The Enhanced Premium Tax Credit makes health insurance premiums more affordable for people who purchase coverage through the Affordable Care Act marketplace. More than 85

Friday, November 21, 2025

Heusom Extends Support to the ASPCA® to Strengthen Animal Welfare in the United States

Heusom furthers its mission of stress-free pet care by supporting ASPCA® initiatives aimed at protecting animals from cruelty and harm.

BANGOR, ME, UNITED STATES, November 21, 2025 /EINPresswire.com/ -- Heusom, the global pet care brand behind the Silent Groom Pro, announced that the company has made a contribution to the ASPCA® (American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals®), helping advance national efforts that protect animals, improve welfare standards, and expand access to critical care for vulnerable pets.

This effort reflects Heusom’s commitment to compassionate animal care and aligns with the

Maine DOE Teacher Leader Fellow and National Expert Highlight Collaborative Approaches for Multilingual Learners with Exceptionalities

Maine - The Maine Department of Education’s (DOE) professional learning on multilingual learners with disabilities was in the spotlight at this year’s Northern New England Teachers of English Speakers of Other Languages (NNETESOL) 2025 Annual Conference, themed, “Opening Doors Through Language and Literacy Instruction” and held on November 15 at Southern New Hampshire University. Through a joint session, Maine’s leadership in advancing collaborative, equitable instruction for multilingual learners with disabilities took center stage, bringing this emerging area of practice to educators from across New England.

This joint session, “Implementing Joint Professional Learning About Dually Identified

Thursday, November 20, 2025

King Cosponsors Effort to Repeal Provision Allowing Lawmakers to Sue Justice Department for Phone Surveillance

Bill would repeal a provision added to last week’s Continuing Resolution allowing senators to collect $500,000 per lawfully subpoenaed phone record

WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Senator Angus King (I-ME), alongside 27 of his colleagues, has introduced legislation to prevent the special protection of lawmakers in federal investigations. The Anti-Cash Grab Act would repeal a provision — quietly added at the last

MaineHealth wins $2.1M NIH grant to join national pediatric research network

PORTLAND, Maine MaineHealth has received a five-year, $2.1 million grant from the National Institutes of Health (NIH) to join the Environmental Influences on Child Health Outcomes (ECHO) IDeA States Pediatric Clinical Trials Network (ISPCTN). The research network addresses disparities in pediatric research by including children from rural or underserved populations in clinical trials and by building pediatric research capacity in states like Maine and New Hampshire with historically less NIH funding.

Currently, MaineHealth offers a wide variety of clinical trials to adult patients. However,

MaineHealth Announces $1.6 million landmark gift from David Evans Shaw for SHAW Challenge

PORTLAND, Maine – MaineHealth's Center for Health Improvement today announced a groundbreaking $1.6 million donation from Maine entrepreneur and impact activist David Evans Shaw to launch the SHAW Challenge, a comprehensive four-year initiative designed to transform how Maine communities address the youth mental health crisis.

As part of a larger effort to support youth mental health, Shaw provided additional funding

COMMISSION ACCEPTS BIDS FOR STANDARD OFFER ELECTRICITY SUPPLY FOR 2026 FOR CENTRAL MAINE POWER COMPANY AND VERSANT POWER COMPANY'S MAINE PUBLIC DISTRICT

Hallowell, Maine -The Maine Public Utilities Commission (Commission) accepted bids for Standard Offer electricity supply today, setting new rates for residential and business customers of Central Maine Power Company (CMP) and Versant Power's Maine Public District (MPD).

The bidding process for CMP residential and small non-residential class customers was

Nokomis High School Students Lead Technology Learning Across Maine Through MLTI SLAM Program


This story was written by Nokomis High School student Makennah Jura.

Students like myself from Nokomis High School are using their technology skills for good as a part of the Maine Learning Technology Initiative (MLTI) SLAM program, a statewide effort sponsored by the Maine Department of Education (DOE). I have had the amazing opportunity of participating in this program for the past three years. Short for Student Leadership Ambassadors of Maine, this program gives students hands-on experience in digital creativity, leadership, and education. Each week, our team takes center stage in producing the SLAM Show, a live broadcast that explores creative digital tools and tech-based learning. Then, once a month, we bring that energy on the road for the SLAM Showcase through events hosted at schools across Maine.

Our advisor, Mr. Kern Kelley, explained it perfectly: “The showcases are a chance for students and teachers to learn new tools together. Everything we use is free and web-based, so anyone can keep using it after we leave.”

Kern Kelley, RSU 19 Technology Integrator and Nokomis High School Educator
Kern Kelley, RSU 19 Technology Integrator and Nokomis High School Educator

Mr. Kelley, said the SLAM program began in the 2021-2022 school year during the COVID-19 pandemic as a way for students to connect virtually after school when after-school programs weren’t happening. Now, just a few years later, it has grown into something much larger. According to Mr. Kelley, Nokomis has done more than 60 showcases across Maine, from Fort Kent to Noble. The idea is for students to learn, create, and share.

First-Hand SLAM Experience

At Nokomis High School, we are lucky to be able to help the SLAM program run statewide. Each one of us has a role in something that is bigger than ourselves. We practice each week during the SLAM Show, which helps us to prepare for the SLAM Showcase. Personally, I have helped to set up for live events, present to students, and handle logistics like dinner reservations when our team is on the road. Doing so has taught me organization, communication, and leadership in ways that I didn’t expect.

Annie Nyce interviewing a student from Pemetic Elementary School

I’m not the only one at Nokomis who has learned a lot from the SLAM program:

  • “Being able to travel around and teach other people about what I know has helped me build communication skills and confidence when presenting,” said member Maddie Ervin.
  • “It’s an amazing opportunity to grow as a public speaker and teach other kids. You also learn problem-solving, especially when helping younger students with technology,” said host Hallie Coots.  
  • Member Mallory Smith said that what she loves the most about the program is meeting new people and seeing new parts of the state. She said that she has learned the importance of time management and patience, especially when working with students who are just learning to use a laptop for the first time.

During Nokomis’ most-recent showcase at Pemetic Elementary School on Mount Desert Island, I met with Stephanie McGruder, an MLTI ambassador for the Maine DOE, who was teaching Canva to students. She shared: “What fascinates me about SLAM is watching high school students do things most adults can’t even do. You’re creative, genuine, and willing to teach others. It’s incredible to see.”

Why Does This Matter?

Being a part of the SLAM program has shown me that leadership doesn’t just mean being in charge; it means sharing what you know, helping others to learn, and finding your voice. Whether coding virtually or hosting live shows, we’re building skills that will stick with us far beyond high school. As Mr. Kelley explained: “It’s a great chance to travel, learn, and give back to the community while having fun with technology.” I couldn’t agree more.


As technology continues to shape the world around us, the work we are doing through SLAM will become more important. Programs like SLAM show how powerful technology can be when students take the lead in teaching and learning. The experience gives us confidence in teaching these technology tools and innovating with them. As the next generation, we’re not just keeping up with technology; we’re helping to shape how it’s used in the classrooms and communities across Maine and beyond.

This story was submitted by Nokomis High School. To submit a good news story to the Maine DOE, please fill out the good news submission form.

Tuesday, November 18, 2025

The Adventures of Belle Bear Inspires Kids Through an Immigrant Story of Courage and Self-Confidence

The Adventures of Belle Bear

The Adventures of Belle Bear

Blue Balloon Books logo

Blue Balloon Books logo

The Adventures of Belle Bear is a heartwarming story about moving to a new place, making new friends, and finding self-confidence in the process.

PORTLAND, ME, UNITED STATES, November 18, 2025 /EINPresswire.com/ -- Blue Balloon Books is excited to announce the December 2, 2025, release date of The Adventures of Belle Bear by debut author Kathy Akopov Guillory. This is a moving and empowering story about finding courage, embracing differences, and discovering self-confidence when life takes an unexpected turn.

The story features Belle Bear, a spirited polar