Congratulations Portland Public Schools for winning the NSBA’s Grand Prize for the Magna Award recognizing equity in education for their Make It Happen Program! @MSMA207 #PortlandPublic Schools #NSBA2021
Register now for the 2021 Virtual Maine School Finance Summer Institute! Presented by Drummond Woodsum, the 8 interactive sessions will take place from July 21-August 13.
https://schoollaw.com/events/2021-finance-institute-is-going-virtual/
Registration now open for the 2021 Virtual Maine School Law Summer Institute! Join Drummond Woodsum for 7 interactive sessions on July 12-July 20, 2021.
https://schoollaw.com/events/2021-school-law-institute-is-going-virtual/
Click on the following link to read the January/February issue of the Policy Development Newsletter: https://5il.co/q199
Governor Mills and Dr. Shah Thank Maine Teachers
https://youtu.be/S89t1M5kKb4
The Maine Broadband Coalition has launched a statewide “Get Up To Speed” internet speed test mapping initiative. The goal is to gather data from across the state to generate the most comprehensive map of both the presence and quality of internet in Maine to date. Click the link below to take the 1-minute test to map your own speed.
https://www.mainebroadbandcoalition.org/speedtesting-link
Diversity, Equity and Inclusion combined statement and events of the last week
https://mainedoenews.net/2020/12/11/joint-statement-of-commitment-and-support-for-diversity-equity-and-inclusion-in-maine-schools/
Click on the following link to read the Fall 2020 issue of MSMA School Law News: https://5il.co/nrfp
CCI Session 3 Postponed Tonight - Due to the impending rain and wind storm as well as the concern about power outages and loss of internet access across many parts of the state, Session 3 has been postponed tonight and has been rescheduled for Monday, December 14th at 6 p.m.
Registration is now open for the 47th Annual MSMA Fall Conference. Registration should be made through the Superintendent's office. We hope you can join us virtually on Oct. 30-31. #MSMAFC2020
Click on the following link to read the Fall 2020 issue of the MSMA Labor Relations News: https://5il.co/lolh
Lots of great energy and questions tonight at the Cultural Competence Institute’s opening session. Great attendance from across the state. Still time to sign up for September session or the series!
Announcing the Cultural Competence Institute for all Maine educators – click the link below for additional information.
https://5il.co/jl4e
Secretary DeVos Awards More than $180 Million to States Rethinking K-12 Education to Better Meet Students’ Needs During Coronavirus Disruption
https://www.ed.gov/news/press-releases/secretary-devos-awards-more-180-million-states-rethinking-k-12-education-better-meet-students%E2%80%99-needs-during-coronavirus-disruption
PRIORITY NOTICE: Coronavirus Relief Funds Allocations, Update
https://mailchi.mp/maine/crf-allocation-update?e=2cff93feff
To Protect Health of Students & Staff, Mills Administration Provides Public Health Guidance & Financial Support to School Systems Across Maine
https://www.maine.gov/governor/mills/news/protect-health-students-staff-mills-administration-provides-public-health-guidance-financial
Support Question 1 on expanding internet on July 14
https://www.msmaweb.com/article/268893?org=msma
Click on the link below to read the updated May/June 2020 issue of the Policy Development News https://5il.co/i4f1
Click on the following link to read the Summer 2020 issue of the MSMA Labor Relations News: https://5il.co/hmdc
Working Draft: Return to Classroom Instruction Framework
https://www.maine.gov/doe/covid-19/reintegrate
Maine’s Educational Organizations Stand Together and pause to honor Juneteenth
https://5il.co/he53
Click on the following link to read the Summer 2020 issue of MSMA School Law News: https://5il.co/hctw
We All Benefit by Responding to the 2020 Census - counting everyone in the 2020 Census can help communities receive funding for health care, education, emergency services, and more. Your response can make a difference.
https://2020census.gov/en.html?utm_campaign=20200518chc20s1ccallrs&utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery
Mills Administration Secures WiFi & Learning Devices for 100 Percent of Maine Students Reporting a Need In Face of COVID-19’s Impacts on Schools
https://mailchi.mp/maine/media-release-maine-doe-celebrates-april-as-the-month-of-the-military-child-1321400?e=2cff93feff
PRIORITY NOTICE: USDA Pandemic EBT Program
https://mailchi.mp/maine/cu5lemq6y0-1321372?e=2cff93feff
FREE Webinar Opportunity - Coping with COVID-19: Mental Health Tips for Children and Families – May 12 at 1 pm – Registration Required
https://ww2.keenan.com/coping-with-covid-19?utm_source=hs_email&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=200427.K_CopingwithCOVID-19_WBN_Promo_Msg01&_hsenc=p2ANqtz-_p950fsYHpv6JwTewmMrSC1EJcRKqLgzj7UgqlUDIkzdJRizu4_OaBxKoIx75M43yv24sijdklLFDRLVsXlxYDQp12eQ&_hsmi=2
PRIORITY NOTICE: Covid 19 Responsive Guidance on Graduation Ceremonies
https://mailchi.mp/maine/cu5lemq6y0-1321328?e=2cff93feff
Don’t Forget to Respond: 2020 Census Reminder Postcards Arriving
https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/USCENSUS/bulletins/28a13c5
PRIORITY NOTICE: Pending Guidance for Decision Making
https://us2.campaign-archive.com/?e=&u=a582edd6473e477ef6307c769&id=e08e70d317
Don’t Forget to Respond: 2020 Census Reminder Postcards Arriving
https://www.census.gov/newsroom/press-releases/2020/reminder-postcards.html?utm_campaign=20200427msc20s1ccnwsrs&utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery
Click the link below for tips for School Board members to look and sound your best online during remote meetings
https://5il.co/fgez
Click on the following link to read the March/April 2020 issue of MSMA Policy Development News:
https://5il.co/fdv3
Center for Safe Schools COVID-19 Webinar - Navigating Virtual Education -- with Calm, Connectedness and Compassion
Roundtable Discussion Bios - https://5il.co/fd2n
Roundtable Discussion Overview - https://5il.co/fd2o
Please take time to Complete the 2020 Census Survey! So important for schools and state agencies to have a Complete Count for Maine!
Your Response Today Can Shape Your Future
The 2020 Census is underway. Over 70 million households have responded to date, representing 48.1% of all households in America. Make sure that you and your friends and family are included in this once-a-decade count.
https://2020census.gov/?utm_campaign=20200413chc20s1ccallrs&utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery
Click on the following link to read the Spring 2020 issue of MSMA Labor Relations News: https://5il.co/f0dl
How Census Data Help the Nation Respond to Disasters
https://www.census.gov/library/stories/2020/04/how-census-data-help-the-nation-respond-to-disasters.html
Cyberbullying Is On The Rise During The Coronavirus Pandemic
https://www.digitaltrends.com/news/coronavirus-cyberbullying-distance-learning/
Click on the following link to read the Spring 2020 issue of MSMA School Law News: https://5il.co/evkn
PRIORITY NOTICE: Unified Guidance Regarding Executive Orders and School Personnel: All School Services and Employees are Essential
https://us2.campaign-archive.com/?e=&u=a582edd6473e477ef6307c769&id=169f6e9329
Update from Commissioner Makin 3-27-20
https://mailchi.mp/maine/cu5lemq6y0-1321000?e=ebadcd071b
Video Message From Commissioner Makin Regarding Pandemic: March 22, 2020
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yF562moq1yY&feature=youtu.be
Guidance from CDC for School-Based Operations
https://mainedoenews.net/2020/03/19/guidance-from-cdc-for-school-based-operations/
Proposed Rulemaking for Rule Chapter 112
https://mailchi.mp/maine/cu5lemq6y0-1320899?e=2cff93feff
Why Outbreaks like Coronavirus Spread Exponentially and How to "Flatten the Curve"
https://www.washingtonpost.com/graphics/2020/world/corona-simulator/
DOE Commissioner’s Message to the Field
https://mailchi.mp/maine/cu5lemq6y0-1320895?e=2cff93feff
Governor Mills, Maine Congressional Delegation Convene Call on COVID-19
https://www.maine.gov/governor/mills/news/governor-mills-maine-congressional-delegation-convene-call-covid-19-2020-03-19
Governor Mills Takes Further Steps to Respond to COVID-19, Protect Health and Safety of Maine People
https://www.maine.gov/governor/mills/news/governor-mills-takes-further-steps-respond-covid-19-protect-health-and-safety-maine-people
Governor Mills, Legislature Spearhead Emergency Legislative Package to Respond to COVID-19
https://www.maine.gov/governor/mills/news/governor-mills-legislature-spearhead-emergency-legislative-package-respond-covid-19-2020-03-17
As COVID-19 spreads throughout the country, more schools are canceling classes and shifting their in-person instructional time online. Many teachers are now trying to understand the ins-and-outs of distance learning. The good news is: help is available! Many companies are offering teachers and schools access to their online platforms for free for the duration of their closure. The Center for Safe Schools has put together a list of free online resources.
This list can be accessed here: https://schoolchoiceweek.com/37-free-online-resources-for-schools-shifting-online-during-coronavirus/
Coronavirus and school closures - the importance of social distancing. Linked below is an article from Ariadne Labs on the benefits of social distancing.
https://5il.co/dtoi
Please click the link below to read the priority notice from Commission Makin regarding the close of schools due to COVID-19.
https://www.maine.gov/doe/covid-19/closeofschools
Governor Announces Significant Recommendations & Signs Civil Emergency Proclamation to Respond to COVID-19 in Maine
https://www.maine.gov/governor/mills/news/governor-announces-significant-recommendations-signs-civil-emergency-proclamation-respond
Governor announces first confirmed Corona Virus case. At this time there is no plan to close public schools.
The most up-to-date information on Coronavirus (COVID-19) Resources for Schools can be found on the Maine DOE website. Under "Important Links" you can also find a webinar with guidance for schools.
https://www.maine.gov/doe/covid-19
Governor Mills convened her Coronavirus Response Team charged with coordinating State government’s response across departments and local agencies and health authorities to the potential spread of novel coronavirus. Click the link below for additional information.
https://www.maine.gov/governor/mills/news/governor-mills-convenes-coronavirus-response-team-2020-03-02
Please click the link below to read the Priority Notice from the Maine DOE - Reminders for School Communities Regarding the 2019 Novel Coronavirus
https://mainedoenews.net/2020/02/26/priority-notice-reminders-for-school-communities-regarding-the-2019-novel-coronavirus/
Poverty Simulation - MSBA and MaineSpark are cosponsoring this learning event at the MaineSpark Summit. Look for details to sign up for this event to be held on May 18 at Thomas College!
Click on the following link to read the January/February 2020 issue of MSMA Policy Development News - the Annual Index Issue. https://5il.co/d3mc
*Change in status on punitive transfer bill*
There has been a change in status on L.D. 1857, An Act To Protect Teachers from Punitive or Retaliatory Transfers. MSMA will keep you posted on the bill's status, but there is no need to submit testimony today.
David Murphy honored as Maine’s Superintendent of the Year!
Click on the following link to read the Winter 2020 issue of MSMA Labor Relations News: https://5il.co/d0of
Click on the following link to read the Winter 2020 issue of MSMA School Law News: https://5il.co/cp1t
Judge Broderick shares his family’s personal journey with mental health with Maine Superintendents. #knowthefivesigns #changedirection.
School Board members and superintendents spend time prepping for collective bargaining at workshop in Auburn. Important learning regarding implication of new legislation.
The MSMA offices will be closed today December 3 due to worsening storm conditions. Should you need someone to respond to a question please call 800-660-8484 and leave a message. Phone messages will be checked periodically.
The MSMA office will be closed Dec 3 until 11 a.m. due to the storm. If it is necessary to close for the day this message will be updated.
Great to be at the Viles House with the Augusta Board of Education and administrators at their education retreat and Board workshop. Doing great work to refine goals and action steps within their strategic plan.
New learning for new Superintendents!
Maine’s New Superintendents spend the morning learning about budget development and marketing your budget with Dr. Webb from Bangor and MSMA’s CFO Deb Roberts. The afternoon was spent talking about Organizational culture and climate. 2020 New Superintendents are enthusiastic and committed to their work. Great conversations! . Amazing Educational Leaders!
Phone and Internet services have now been restored to our offices. We apologize for any interruption in communication that may have occurred.
We are experiencing difficulty with our phone reception this morning. Please try to communicate with us via email. We will post a new message when the problem has been resolved.
Maine Education Center for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing school board members take part in Professional Learning at their retreat on Saturday, Nov 16 facilitated by MSBA Executive Director Steve Bailey
MSMA Offices are closed 11/12 until 11:00 am. Please be safe and drive carefully.
Public Education in Maine shines today! Congratulations to Adam Parvanta a teacher from Gorham High School on receiving the Milken Award!
Fall Conference is wrapping up. Thank you all for coming and hope to see you next year! Please leave your evaluation form in the basket before you leave, we rely on your input when planning for next year!
Peter Vigue addresses MSMA Fall Conference attendees learned about leadership and the importance of Mrs Earle, his Latin teacher who taught him to never say can’t., a message he carries with him every day.
Our Friday Endnote Speaker: Peter Vigue, Chairman of the Cianbro Companies talking about how a Latin teacher of his impacted his life. “Never say can’t, never give up!”
MSMA Executive Director, Steve Bailey and Sue Hawes, the new MSBA President drawing the winner of the grand prize Lillian Vanvieldt at Alliant Insurance Services: a $500 gift certificate to the Lord Camden Inn! Thanks Lillian!
Lunchtime, yum!
Educational and Career Opportunities at Cianbro clinic at MSMA Fall Conference: Sharing their connection to other academic institutions while helping young people be prepared to enter the workforce.
Special thanks to the many presenters who provided valuable information within the 68 clinics at the 46th Annual MSMA Fall Conference! The conference is made meaningful through your contributions. Thank you!
MSMA 2020-2021 budget approved this morning at the MSMA Annual Meeting by the two executive committees of MSBA and MSSA and the Action/Policy Committees of MSMA. Thanks to all who helped in this process.
MSMA Fall Conference learning about MSMA’s new website!
Adjacent to the MSMA insurance table we are also selling books and “Maine ❤️ Public Education” Long sleeve T-shirts ($12 child, $16). Stop on by!
Stop by the MSMA Insurance table anytime during the conference today to hear about the MSMA difference!
Special thanks to the sponsor of our delicious continental breakfast: Siemens
The winner of a $50 Visa Gift card from EPMA!
The winner of the raffle prize from Duro Last Roofing, a Fitbit Charge 3!
The winner of the raffle prize from Oak Point Associates, an Oculus Go virtual reality headset!
The raffle winner who received the grand prize from Drummond and Woodsum. A $200 LL. Bean gift card!
The winner of a jar of goodies from World of Change, an organization that uses spare change as a too get kids involved and to make giving accessible for all kids, who are able to choose where their donations go.
The winner of the grand raffle prize from Apple, a 32gb Apple TV!
Recipients of the MSMA Insurance raffle prizes. An Amazon Echo and two L.L. Bean gift cards!
Hard at work doing an in-clinic activity sharing ideas and of course networking!
MSBA President Kim Bedard calls the Delegate Assembly to order.
Our fabulous lunchtime entertainment the Bangor High School Symphonic Orchestra warming up for their performance. I wish you could hear how awesome they sound!
“Best Practices for Boardsmanship” presented by Peter Lowe, Attorney, Brann & Isaacson. Just one of many informative clinics offered this morning.
Apptegy representative Mark, is set up at a vendor booth in the auditorium. He will be available to answer any questions about MSMA’s new website and app or other Apptegy products. A clinic will also be offered introducing the new website and app Friday at 9:45 in the Capital Room. Stop by and say hi!
How much money was spent on Hannah Montana, High School Musical, and Disney Princess merchandise during the height of the recession? $26 BILLION! Dr. Beegle uses this figure to illustrate how much wealth is in America.
Special thanks to our Keynote Sponsor the Maine Army National Guard for making it possible!
Starting MSMA Fall Conference with keynote speaker Donna Beegle - important knowledge shared on combatting barriers and eliminating poverty.
A packed house listening to our keynote speaker Dr. Donna Beegle, President of Communication Across Barriers and author of “See Poverty... Be the Difference!”
Maine Superintendents give Dr. Joe a standing O! And a very special t-shirt and mug! Great inspirational day!
There are many different ways to learn!
Looking forward to MSMA 46th Annual Fall Conference tomorrow and Friday, October 24th and 25th! Great speakers, 68 clinics, wonderful exhibits for school board members and superintendents!
School Culture and Relationships are important in School Districts
Maine Superintendents working and learning together!
Maine’s Assistant Superintendent of the Year. Dr. Chris Record
MSMA Fall Conference- Last push to move headquarters up to the Civic Center!
Clinic Room Change - Thursday at 3:40 p.m. - Please note that Clinic V.C., Keeping Problems out of Problem-solving Negotiations and Your Interests in Interest-based Bargaining has been moved to the Cumberland Room.
All hands on deck at MSMA! Fall Conference is just days away!
MSMA Fall Conferece
Team MSMA- takes a break from Fall Conference Prep to gather for lunch and MSMAs 2019/2020 staff photo
MSMA gather one last time before Fall Conference week! Best team going!
Maine ❤️ Publication Education— MSMA prepares for Fall Conference and the theme lives on!
The Fall Conference clinic program is now available. https://5il.co/ara0
MSBA President Kim Bedard and Executive Director Steve Bailey visit with Superintendent Xavier Botana and members of Portland School Board, April 24
MSBA Officers posed with state exec at the NSBA Summer Leadership Seminar.
