Maine Educator November 2019

MAINE

Educator BLAST OFF! From Caribou to the Cosmos An Education Lesson that's Out of this World!

November 2019 www.maineea.org @maineea

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NOVEMBER 2019

Volume 80, Number 2

CONTENTS ISSUE LINEUP 10

16

Beyond the Dewey Decimal System-School Libraries Revolutionized

Learning and Line Dancing

20

23

Celebrating Maine

From USM to Zimbabwe

20

26

28

Students' Spacewalk

Off and Running

5 Opening Bell 6 Editor’s Note 7 President’s Letter 8 Classroom Crafts 9 Free Stuff 10 Learning and Line Dancing 11 You Earn What?

12 Building Winning Teams 13 Important Changes

that Impact your Work 14 Tax Tips Fast Facts 15 We Are MEA 16 Beyond the Dewey

Decimal System

School Libraries Revolutionized 19 Tech Talk 20 Celebrating Maine 22 Social Media Do's & Dont's 23 From USM to Zimbabwe 24 American Ed Week 25 To Infinity and Beyond 26 Students' Spacewalk 28 Off and Running 29 Discounted Courses

May Help Members

Increase Pay 30 Calendar 31 SmartShopper 32 Clyde Russell

Scholarship Fund 33 MEA Awards

20 Editorial Staff

Managing Editor Editor Layout Design

Paula Voelker Giovanna Bechard Shawn Berry

Leadership

President Vice President Treasurer NEA Director

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Grace Leavitt Jesse Hargrove Beth French Amanda Cooper

Board of Directors

Robert "Bo" Zabierek Suzen Polk-Hoffses Mallory Cook Cedena McAvoy Ken Williams Janice Murphy Nancy Mitchell Dennis Boyd Rebecca Cole

Maine Educator • November 2019

Amy O'Brien-Brown Bob McCully Janet Howe Kuech Donna Longley Lisa Leduc Neil Greenberg Thomas Moore III Gerry French Carson Hope

Maine Educator (ISSN #1069-1235) is published by: Maine Education Association 35 Community Drive, Augusta, ME 043308005 207-622-4418; fax 207-623-2129 POSTMASTER: send address changes to: Maine Educator 35 Community Drive, Augusta, Maine 043308005

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For advertising rates and information please contact: Shawn Berry 35 Community Dr., Augusta, ME 04330 207-622-4418 ext. 2206

PENING BELL

Day of Caring: Retired Educators Support our Schools and Students

The York County Retired Educators Association held its 10th annual Day of Caring at Marshwood Middle School. Each year, as part of a statewide volunteer project, each county association of the Maine Education Association Retired does “something special” for a school in their county on or around September 11th. Retired educators, students from St. Joseph’s College, staff from Marshwood Middle School and MEA President, Grace Leavitt helped prepare the school for students, painting several areas and dusting shelves in the library. The group also donated backpacks, school supplies and a generous check to be used for students and staff.

Early Career Educator Support

Young Education Professionals of the MEA (YEP-MEA) came together at Rising Tide in Portland during an event geared specifically toward early career educators. During the event, educators who’ve “been there, done that” shared what they wished they knew when they started on the job. Educators then took some time to network and meet others who are also newer to the profession. MEA continues to work with early career educators to provide them a space in the association to build personal and professional relationships with other like-minded educators through networking and community outreach. Interested in an upcoming YEP-MEA event? Check out the group on Facebook.

Educators Organize to Help Pass School Budget, Increase Membership

MSAD 75 Teachers Continue to Fight for Contract

Teachers in MSAD 75 are still without a contract, despite the community’s support to increase their pay by adding $600,000 to the school budget. The local association and the School Board entered into mediation in the summer and still reached no agreement. The local is headed into fact finding. Teachers in MSAD 75 are among the lowest paid in the area, well below their peers in neighboring districts.

The first half of 2019 has been challenging and controversial in MSAD #49 (Fairfield area) with the resignation of the Superintendent, three Administrators, and three school board members (including Chair and Vice Chair). In addition, the district budget failed twice. That’s when teachers and educational technicians decided to take action.

These dedicated employees along with other MEA members, retirees, and concerned parents turned out wearing red at board and budget validation meetings to urge the communities to support the 3rd budget and the children of MSAD #49. The group also used social media to get their message out. In September, the budget passed in all towns by a healthy margin.

There is a silver lining, the MSAD #49 TA is taking steps to engage members, the community, and the Board to work together to make sure students are a priority. In addition, Ed Techs merged to form the MSAD #49 Education Association representing all Ed Techs. They successfully negotiated one contract for Ed Tech Is and IIs (previously Is and IIs were separate) and the Ed Tech IIIs won an election at the MLRB and will be negotiating their first contract this fall.

November 2019 • www.maineea.org

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November

FROM THE EDITOR

I

first moved to Maine in 2001. I’d never been here before.

Growing up in New Jersey, Maine might as well have been the moon. In fact, when I told my Nana, at the time, where I was going that’s exactly what she said- “why don’t you just go to the moon?”

When I first pulled off the exit in Bangor, I saw the big Paul Bunyan statue and, I’ll admit, I said where the heck am I? Needless to say, there weren’t any huge lumberjack statues in Jersey where I grew up. I immediately felt like I wouldn’t fit in-and trust me I didn’t. I talked differently, had different views because of how I grew up, and didn’t understand why I couldn’t find an Italian bakery with a good cannoli on every other corner. I was beyond sheltered to how people lived in more rural parts of the countryand yes, when you’re from New Jersey and go to college in Boston, Bangor is rural.

I’ve since learned so much about this great state and can’t imagine living anywhere else.

I understand I’ll never be a Mainer, and nothing against Maine, but I don’t want to be. I’m proud of my roots, but also proud to raise two true Mainers who play and bike in the woods. Where I grew up there weren’t any woods. We had

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Maine Educator • November 2019

2019

diners, bowling alleys and malls. It was great for me, but I know my kids have it good—Maine is a great place to grow up. As the state celebrates its 200th anniversary there are so many interesting ways educators are using the resources Maine has to offer to teach their students. From the Swedish Colony in Northern Maine to the wildlife in the vast woods and now a Mainer in space, there are many lessons to be learned from the state’s history and environment. To learn more about how your colleagues are using Maine in their lessons turn to page 18 and page 24.

While Maine is a great place to live and work, it’s hard to ignore the state still lags behind in compensation for educators. While the MEA has been victorious in working to increase teacher pay and help raise the minimum wage, there is still work to be done.

MEA believes it is important for members to have a complete understanding of how other educators in their areas are paid, so they can best negotiate for themselves, and also understand how other professionals, with similar education, are compensated as well. To that end, MEA continually compiles salary reports from around the state and publishes them in this magazine, and in this issue, we’ve put together data to compare teaching salaries with other professions. You can find that information on page 9.

As you continue to plug along through the Fall, and obligations seems to pile up, I encourage you to make sure you’re taking time for yourself, and if you need help in your career make sure you reach out to MEA. We always have your back.

FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA Giovanna Bechard Editor editor@maineea.org

MEA PRESIDENT'S LETTER

What we don’t often think about, though, are the changes—the very positive changes we make in the lives of the students with whom we work.

"

As educators, we are constantly faced with change—we may have schedules, but at any moment, a lesson can take an unexpected turn, a child can react in a way we didn’t anticipate, an alarm could go off— any number of changes, small or big, occur throughout the day and, of course, throughout the year, from year to year.

In this position now, as your President, change is also a constant. Not a day has gone by without a call or an e-mail or a visitor that altered the plan or changed the order of priorities on the never-ending to do list!

Changing Seasons As I have traveled around the state for the past few weeks, at first the changing leaves were hardly noticeable. Then, seemingly overnight, there were brilliant displays of golden yellow, glowing orange, and fiery red (red…our favorite color, right?). It is certainly yet another of Maine’s treasures, these spectacular displays of autumn foliage.

But you know the saying—the only person who really likes change is a baby in a wet diaper. Change is usually difficult. Change nearly always presents challenges. Change can be uncomfortable or even deeply disturbing. As much as a change in routine may sometimes be refreshing, predictability is comfortable.

I recently visited the school I am on leave from, curious about recent renovations to the building. It was still familiar--and reminded me how much I miss being in the classroom!—but it was also a bit unsettling to see that changes had taken place, even though they certainly were improvements! It just felt a bit strange.

Sometimes change is much more than strange, though—even alarming!

Dare I mention “climate change”? As with the foliage, most of us might hardly have been noticing it until recently. Now, we hear about it daily. And the worry is raising anxiety levels in not only children but also adults. If we are even to slow it down, we all have to make changes, many of them significant, in our routines and habits.

What we don’t often think about, though, are the changes—the very positive changes we make in the lives of the students with whom we work. These changes are gradual, too—often too gradual for us to really notice, but they are there, I guarantee you! You, each one of you, make a difference in a child’s life every single day. You may not know that until years have passed—you may never be made aware of it— but know that you matter. It is both the most rewarding part of the work we do and the greatest responsibility we have. The 2017 Maine Integrated Youth Health Survey (MIYHS) found that one in every four high school students in Maine reported having had three or more Adverse Childhood Experiences. The 2019 survey results will be out later this month and we can only hope that the latest statistics aren’t as sobering. But it is also true that one caring adult can counteract the negative impact of A.C.E.s. Educators, in all our many roles, can and do bring about great changes for the better.

So let’s “get our red on”—let’s keep working for positive changes for our students, for our colleagues, for our communities. 2020 is fast approaching, and we have many changes and challenges ahead—but together we can face them and be successful!

Take care, stay well, stay strong—and enjoy the season. Thank you for all you do!

Grace Leavitt President gleavitt@maineea.org November 2019 • www.maineea.org

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S T F A R C M CLASSROO

History om Classro n Lecter

Maine Educator is always scouring the internet for innovative ideas to help spruce up your space or help you engage your students.

Here are some of the latest finds!

Le Frac go tion s

Cha nces s e y ar c a o f s u u o h ave s e Fam e v L i g e o ry gos made a or k me in histo e v a s h o o n meo sa wh ne w ow student isual of those nt and center h a v s h o t r f o so t’s easy constan when they’re of a me spa ctern. I and e le c n r d w e e r n e g h i diff with ole w e Legos erly des lack and white v le c e ly s i h b on t not Legos. Thre never ing aro print in t s u j o u m . . n . to do und ly fun is high ade ea nd. Par . ts y l e s f a y i r tape aw and stand w or stude visual er than a colo n rs. hen bro ts but i ctivity i s ken s up i easy to nto part s

ction Contra eal ev Word R

g Learnin ns has l the ts revea tio n c a e a d r t u t n S o c rm with sier. o a f e l a n n e i e never b n from its orig . er tio contrac ut piece of pap yc carefull

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Maine Educator • November 2019

Plac e Styr Value ofo Cup am s Wit h you a few c ups can b any dolla uy at num r sto r b tool ers on e e, take a your a ch. N mark num bers students ow, yo er and . w u can use t have an rite om anip easy ulate

FREE STUFF

NORTH AMERICAN BEAR CENTER

Bring the only black bear and wildlife learning facility into your classroom! K-12 students learn from the bears about behavior, ecology, and interactions with humans. Lesson plans for different age levels range in topics from how and why bears store fat to the hibernation metabolism in black bears.

FMI: https://bear.org/ educational-outreach/ lesson-plans/

DOCS TEACH

DocsTeach is a source of primary documents from the National Archives and activities for social studies teachers and students in grades 3-12. This online tool for teaching history and social studies uses documents from the National Archives.

Students can get involved in the process of historical research with thousands of documents, videos, maps and more.

FMI: www.docsteach.org

It's one of the best four letter words out there— FREE—especially when you're on a tight budget. Maine Educator found a few freebies!

MAGNET ACADEMY

Magnet Academy features demonstrations, videos, activities, downloads, and more on magnetism and electricity for grades K-12.

The online resource allows educators to seach by topic, age level, format, and grade level. The demos, videos, and activities answer your questions about all things electric and magnetic!

FMI: nationalmaglab.org

EAT PLAY GROW EatPlayGrow provides activities to encourage children and parents to make healthy choices in nutrition, physical activity, and sleep. Entire curriculum, lesson plans and family handouts are available. The engaging lessons for grades preK8, combine art-making, storytelling, music and movement activities and hands-on educational lessons about the importance of making positive choices that most affect health.

FMI: www.nhlbi.nig.gov/ health/educational/ wecan/tools-resources/ eatplaygrow

November 2019 • www.maineea.org

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Member Testimonial

Learning and Line Dancing

Alison Gray, Saco EA

Early Career Educators head to Texas for Training When asked "do you want to go to Texas meet with other early career educators and learn more about how you can become more involved in the union," a group of early career educators didn’t blink an eye and said “yes.” When you think about it, a trip where they’d learn something and maybe do a little line dancing seemed like an easy ask. What this group didn’t realize is how much they would learn about the union, what it does, and how it could support them in their work and their local. to

The training, designed for the Young Education Professionals of the MEA (YEP-MEA), was part of a national effort by the National Education Association to engage early career educators, a much-needed task.

In the next ten years, it's estimated there will be two million new educators who join the profession, most of whom will be millennials (born between 1981-1996.)

With the change in the face of the profession, especially in Maine, the nation’s oldest state, MEA and NEA are working to ensure those who are entering the profession feel supported in their work and don't leave the job.

The group who travelled together to Texas came back with a renewed effort to focus on membership recruitment and engagement of early career educators.

So far, the effort is paying off. In several local associations “teams” of early career educators are recruiting new members and working together to provide both professional development and networking opportunities for their members.

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Maine Educator • November 2019

Nyiesha Delima, Saco EA

"After the opportunity of attending the NEA Early Career Educator Conference in Houston, I was able to learn valuable skills on how to engage new educators.

With these skills, I am currently working on three membership drives within Scarborough. Our goal is simple: show the benefits and the amazing opportunities by joining the association for new educators. The benefits of adding new and young educators to your local are critical to continued success both on local, state and national levels.

Early career educators can provide new ideas, insights and can fill roles and committees. New and young educators' engagement help to continue the longterm gains and legacy of success and builds a bright future for our association."

William York, Vice President Scarborough EA

Early career educators from around the nation come together to learn.

If your local association is interested in creating a team of early career educators to help in this cause, contact MEA at editor@maineea.org. The Association is always looking for other early career educators who are willing to engage in the work of the union.

You Earn WHAT?

Salary Comparison from one job to the next The MEA is continually keeping track of not only the salaries of educators in our state, but also the salaries of other professionals who hold jobs that require similar education as a teacher. The data, while unsettling, should be used as an education piece for those who are advocating for increased pay while negotiating contracts. The two counties below are samples; data for each county differs.

WASHINGTON COUNTY Difference % ENTRY from Teachers Difference LEVEL

Difference % from Teachers Difference

Occupation Title

AVERAGE

Compliance Officers

$73,539

$33,485

83.6%

$55,432

$21,509

63.4%

Accounts and Auditors

$54,336

$14,282

35.7%

$43,121

$9,198

27.1%

Architecture and Engineering Occupations

$59,823

$19,769

49.4%

$48,231

$14,308

42.2%

Occupational Therapists

$59,077

$19,023

47.5%

$42,852

$8,929

26.3%

Physical Therapists

$84,644

$44,590

111.3%

$64,260

$30,337

89.4%

Registered Nurses

$56,860

$16,806

42.0%

$46,216

$12,293

36.2%

Elementary Teachers, Except Special Education

$40,054

$33,923

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics

AROOSTOOK COUNTY Difference % from Teachers Difference

ENTRY LEVEL

Difference % from Teachers Difference

Occupation Title

AVERAGE

Compliance Officers

$72,173

$27,048

37.5%

$55,106

$18,843

34.2%

Accounts and Auditors

$63,180

$18,055

28.6%

$45,339

$9,076

20.0%

Architecture and Engineering Occupations

$55,719

$10,594

19.0%

$35,393

(871)

-2.5%

Occupational Therapists

$68,604

$23,479

34.2%

$54,476

$18,213

33.4%

Physical Therapists

$85,322

$40,197

47.1%

$65,547

$29,284

44.7%

Registered Nurses

$56,135

$11,010

19.6%

$44,031

$7,768

17.6%

Elementary Teachers, Except Special Education

$45,125

$36,264

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics

November 2019 • www.maineea.org

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WINNING Effective Paraeducator-Teacher Teams

To ensure student success, it is critical that teachers, ed techs and administrators understand their roles and work collaboratively, communicate effectively and respect one another in the process. To meet this need, the Association offers a training called Ed Tech and Teachers: Building a Winning Team. The training package enhances the effectiveness of ed tech-teacher teams. Below are some of the key highlights of the training.

Shared Roles and Responsibilities • Maintain confidentiality • Support equity and diversity • Create and maintain a positive school climate • Maintain a safe and healthy environment • Know and understand expectations and roles • Foster and model positive and respectful working relationships • Understand contract/handbook and state/board policies • Maintain effective communication, respect and recognition through collaboration

Teacher Roles

Administrative Roles • Establish an environment and dedicated time for planning between the teacher and ed tech • Promote effective teamwork within teacher-ed tech teams • Provide professional development opportunities • Provide support to help team members resolve interpersonal or other problems • Provide performance feedback for teachers and ed techs

Ed Tech Roles

• Collaborate on lessons and schedule assignments • Delegate appropriate tasks • Establish and set goals for the instructional team • Orient to the classroom environment • Plan, develop and modify instructional objectives • On-the-job-coaching and professional learning • Prepare lesson plans • Manage work environment • Schedule assignments • Share relevant information about strengths and training • Delegate appropriate tasks needs with administrators.

• Orient new ed techs to the classroom and school environment • Provide on-the-job training, coaching and mentoring of ed techs For more professional development opportunities for ESP, including a complete webinar series, log on to: www.nea.org/home/67091.htm 12 Maine Educator • November 2019

Important Changes that Impact Your Work This school year there are several changes in law that will impact your work and how your voices are heard in the community regarding education issues. Please see the details of some of these changes below.

For updates throughout the school year, make sure you are receiving MEA emails. If you do not get emails from MEA, please contact us by visiting maineea.org/contact-us.

Teacher Evaluation Changes An Act To Amend Educator Evaluation Requirements” took effect on September 19, 2019, although some sections have a later effective date as explained below. This bill makes a couple of key changes to the “educator effectiveness law:”

What does the law do?

• Eliminates the requirement to use student learning and growth measures as a measure of effectiveness in a teacher’s summative effectiveness rating.

• If still used, eliminates the requirement that student learning and growth be a significant factor. It is now completely a local decision if student learning and growth measures or state assessments are included at all as a measure of effectiveness. And if locally it is determined to maintain student learning and growth measures as a factor, the weight any included factor is given is determined locally as well.

• The steering committee composed of teachers, administrators and other school administrative unit staff that reviews and refines the performance evaluation and professional growth (PEPG) system now must be made up of a majority of teachers chosen by the Local Association. Any revisions to the system must be reached by consensus.

• The steering committee changes are effective September 19, 2019.

The elimination of the requirement to use student learning and growth measures and the requirement they be a significant factor is effective September 1, 2021.

Please contact your UniServ Director if you need assistance with this matter.

Public Comment Now Required, By Law, at School Board meetings A new law, LD 721 – An Act To Encourage Public Participation in School Board Meetings—took effect in September. This law requires a public comment period at each school board meeting.

What does the law do?

• Provides an opportunity for the public to comment on school and education matters at a school board meeting.

• The school board can establish reasonable standards for the public comment period, including time limits and conduct standards.

• Applies to full meetings of the school board but not subcommittees.

This law will ensure educators and the public have their voices heard on issues that matter to both students and their profession.

Addressing Dangerous Behavior in the Classroom “An Act To Address Dangerous Behavior in the Classroom” took effect in September. The new law requires school districts to review staff reports of incidents of dangerous behavior and when substantiated, develop an individualized response plan for the student in consultation with the affected staff member. The review is to be conducted by an administrator and a school employee assigned by the local union president.

What does the law do?

Defines Dangerous Behavior Dangerous behavior is defined as that which “presents a risk of injury or harm to a student or others.” While broad, this is at least a starting point.

Requires Union and Staff Involvement The new law mandates staff and union involvement in the response to dangerous behaviors reported by school employees, specifically: • the review must be conducted by an administrator and an assigned union employee; • the employee must be chosen by the local union president; • substantiated incidents of dangerous behavior require an individual response plan to avoid future dangerous behavior; • response plans are to be developed with the affected staff member.

Mitigates the Impact of the Behavior on Staff and Students Options, but not mandates, for responses to the behavior are offered within the law. They are intended to ensure the success of the plan and emphasize restoration of the school community, rather than simple punishment. Note those applicable to staff: • minimize suspensions and expulsions; • provide counseling and guidance for students and staff; • provide supports to address the effects of trauma on both students and staff; • use positive behavioral interventions and supports when dealing with students; • use Restorative Practices; • train staff who must interact with the student; • provide adequate staffing and professional development to implement the plan.

Contractual Considerations An employee’s sick time is protected: • sick time used as a result of injuries sustained as the result of “dangerous behavior” cannot be counted against the employee’s accrued sick leave; • a physician must determine if the employee is unable to work due to the injury.

Please contact your UniServ Director if you need assistance with this matter.

Please visit maineea.org/staff to contact your UniServ Director November 2019 • www.maineea.org

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s p i T

x a T s t c a F t Fas

$515,436

That's the amount of money educators have taken out of their pockets for school supplies so far this year, according to NEA data compiled from educators across the country.

Some of that money may qualify for a tax deduction.

Here's what you need to know, from the IRS.

$740 @Adopt_classroom On Average, #teachers spend $740 out of their own pocket each year to provide #classroom supplies for their students.

28% of teachers spend more than $1,000 annually. #OutOfMyPocket

HOW MUCH CAN YOU DEDUCT? Educators who work in schools may qualify to deduct up to $250 of unreimbursed expenses. That amount goes up to $500 if two qualified educators are married and file a joint return. However, neither spouse can deduct more than $250 of his or her qualified expenses when they file.

WHO QUALIFIES FOR THE DEDUCTION? • • •

Are a teacher, instructor, counselor, principal, aide or teach any grade from kindergarten through twelfth grade Work at least 900 hours during the school year Work in a school that provides elementary or secondary education

WHAT IS A QUALIFIED EXPENSE? • • • • • • 14

Professional development courses Books Supplies Computer equipment including related software and services Supplementary materials Athletic supplies only for health and physical education Maine Educator • November 2019

@TeacherSalaryProject

Every year I budget $1,000 for my classroom supplies: tissues, paper towels, markers, cleaners, pencils, erasers, folders, binders, glue, hole punchers, whiteout, staples, tape, Post-It's, flash cards...#OutOfMyPocket #RaiseTeacherPay

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We Are MEA MEA members shine in so many ways. Together, let's celebrate our successes and congratulate our colleagues.

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National Board Support Workshop MEA hosts support workshops for candidates looking to become National Board Certified Teachers. MEA is proud to support more candidates than ever before during our workshops which are free for members. This group came to Augusta on a Saturday to further their education so they could better support their students.

To learn more about these workshops visit maineea.org

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97% of the Teachers in York are Members The power of the union is strong in York! Nearly all the teachers are now members of the York TA. The group remains a strong, visible presence in each of the schools in the district. Members in York place their MEA stickers above their doors, showing everyone they're proud to belong.

Congratulations to York TA for reaching such a high membership mark!

Educators Provide PD for Peers MEA was excited to support a team of educators from eight different school districts during the ECET2 convening. Overheard at the convening: "Thank you, MEA, for supporting the ECET2 Professional Development Convening in York County.

In my 18 years of teaching, this was one of the best professional development opportunities I have participated in. 'Authentic' is a word that best describes the ECET2 experience. Many thanks!"

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Ed Tech Recognized for Role in Student Success Greely High School Special Education, Education Technician Eliza Miller was named MSAD 51 Employee of the Year. Miller was praised for her one-on-one work with students and support for teachers with colleagues saying, "her years of experience and positivity leads the students to benefit hugely from her structured approach and optimism-which wears off on the students beyond the classroom."

Beyond the Dewey Decimal System School Libraries Revolutionized

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The days of a large hush falling over the school library are largely gone at many schools across the state. For schools that are lucky enough to have librarians, these educators are taking their jobs and in turn the students they work with into a whole new world of knowledge.

From digital literacy, to advanced research to book talks with authors and so much more, some of Maine’s public school libraries are places of innovation, growth and exploration—on top of places students can escape into a good book.

SKILLIN ELEMENTARY SCHOOL South Portland “So much happens when they’re playing -they are playing but they’re purposefully playing.”

Jennifer Stanboro, Skillin Elementary School Librarian For elementary school students in South Portland library time Skillin Elementary School librarian, Jennifer is a co-teaching experience Stanboro, reads to students. between the grade-level classroom teacher and the school librarian, Jennifer Stanboro. Stanboro created a digital learning community inside her library where students don’t just use technology but embrace various tools to help guide their research and increase their engagement.

“One of my goals for students is to have them understand technology can be used to create and not just consume information,”1 said Stanboro. In order to create “makers” and not just consumers, Sanboro has a “maker space” set up in the library. Here, students can use a variety of items, everything from straws to pieces of wood to Legos to build and create.

“I think libraries are a place where your personal interest can be explored. We do a genius hour—kids get to learn what they want to learn. We pull out our digital microscope or watercolors, if they’re interested in painting. We do a lot of choice-based research so students

can choose what they learn. I see the library as a space where the kids can choose how to meet their own goals,” added Stanboro.

}

With that mindset, on this day, Stanboro is working with a 3rd grade class on a Kindness Project.

The group first brainstormed ways they could spread kindness through their school then they researched, using both books, magazines and online tools, videos and stories from other schools, on how they could create a kind school community. All the while, students are understanding the basics of how to conduct research and learn about the various forms of sources where they can attain information.

That element is part of Stanboro’s digital literacy lesson, which is a component of the district’s 21st Century skills assessment requirement.

“My focus now is 21st Century skills. When I first started, the focus was non-fiction text,” said Stanboro. While a lot has changed at the school library, the benefit of collaboration as a best practice to benefit students remains the same, and at Skillin the Kindness Project is a perfect example of how the librarian and 3rd grade teacher working together to help the students.

“I will take this lesson on kindness and teach them the fundamentals of writing in the classroom," said 3rd grade teacher Christine Dobson. "We will have writing prompts and then we use Google classroom where we pose questions and then integrate peer feedback as well,” added Dobson.

SOURCES “One of my goals for students is to have them understand technology can be used to create and not just consume information.” Jennifer Stanboro, Skillin Elementary School Librarian 1

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Maine Educator • November 2019

LYMAN MOORE MIDDLE SCHOOL Portland “It’s all in the details. That’s why every story we can tell is important- the words matter.” Meg Rooks, Lyman Moore Middle School Librarian.

With passion in her voice and a book in her hand, author Jennifer Neilsen reads a passage from her best-selling book Resistance to the 6th grade class at Lyman Moore Middle School in Portland. The students sit quietly as Neilsen paints a picture, with words, of the characters in her books. The author “book talk”, arranged by Moore and Lincoln Middle School Librarian Meg Rooks, came to be due to Rooks’ continued relationship with a local bookstore. Rooks splits her time between two schools and works hard to provide programs that are unique and enriching (for hundreds of students).

“My strategy is to work hard on concentrating on the professional part of my job and thinking about district—wide initiatives; we think about the big picture. I collaborate with the neighborhood non-profits and local bookstores so we can help students understand different topics, like the immigrant population,” said Rooks.

Currently, Rooks has a display of new books in the library, through her partnership with a non-profit, that helps students learn about the new students who are entering the classrooms from other countries.

Through partnerships, Rooks can help fill some of the gaps left due to a lack of librarians in the city schools-there are only 7 for a city with 14 schools.

Author, Jennifer Neilson reads a passage from one of her best-selling novels.

While Rooks wishes each school had its own librarian, she works hard to ensure students receive as much support and programming as possible. The author visit on this day is a prime example of that work. The entire sixth grade sat quietly as they listened and then asked questions of Neilsen who shared details of her latest book.

“You all are writers right now and we hope you can take something away from this to help you as students,” said Neilsen. Neilsen explained to the students why words matter and how the power of words can change a mind, encouraging students to continue to tell stories, real and fictional, because stories are what build us as people. The lessons from this day in the library are what Rooks believes keep students interested in reading and engaged with a variety of genres.

Meg Rooks, Lyman Moore & Lincoln Middle School Librarian

“As soon as you talk about a book kids want to read it. For an actual author to come and talk about their work, kids instantly want to read about it because they know it’s available to them by someone that’s famous, that they’ve met,”3 added Rooks.

“You all are writers right now and we hope you can take something away from this to help you as students.” Jennifer Neilsen, Author 2

SEE MORE ON THE NEXT PAGE!

“As soon as you talk about a book kids want to read it. For an actual author to come and talk about their work, kids instantly want to read about it because they know it’s available to them by someone that’s famous, that they’ve met.”

Meg Rooks, Lincoln Middle School Librarian 3

November 2019 • www.maineea.org

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FALMOUTH MIDDLE SCHOOL Falmouth “We even have to teach them how can you tell what an ad is, because it’s sponsored content.” Cathy Potter, Falmouth Middle School Librarian.

Deciphering fact from fiction in online content is one of the lessons taught by Cathy Potter, librarian at Falmouth Middle School. Here, students check out their own books in between lessons taught by Potter.

Lessons range from navigating an online library with full access to audio books to digital citizenship to in-class literacy work with individual classrooms. The library here is a place where hands-on education takes place.

“We have a Green Screen-students make movies for classes- social studies, sometimes science. A lot of times, if they’re doing project-based learning they can choose how to present their information and the library is a place where they can come to both do their research and put together their projects,” said Potter.

Part of Potter’s focus, as a librarian and former teacher, is to meet students where they are at, in terms of technology, working on digital literacy. Potter shapes lessons around using technology in a safe, responsible way.

Falmouth Middle School librarian, Cathy Potter

“I find that students coming up are a lot more experienced, a lot savvier.

They are more aware than kids a decade ago, but they still need those skills taught, they seem very comfortable with the technology but it’s important to make them slow down and look at the detail,”4 said Potter.

The details are what Potter works on with each child as they come into the library conducting research for things like science and social studies projects. During that work Potter shares her knowledge on proper sourcing.

“They need to be good problem solvers and figure out how to find answers on their own with the resources they have. What we try to teach them is to become critical readers or writers, understand not only what they are reading but also if what they’re reading comes from a good source that is trustworthy. There is so much out there online-they need to know where did the information come from? Who wrote it? Did they cite sources,” said Potter.

It’s research revamped at the library, books coming to life and technology integrated with project-based learning, all in school libraries that seem very far removed from the card catalogues and Dewey Decimal system, thanks to school librarians.

“I find that students coming up are a lot more experienced, a lot savvier. They are more aware than kids a decade ago, but they still need those skills taught, they seem very comfortable with the technology but it’s important to make them slow down and look at the detail.”

Cathy Potter, Falmouth Middle School Librarian 4

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Maine Educator • November 2019

Desmos

THREE APPS TO SUPPORT S T U D E N TS W I T H S P E C I A L N E E D S This article originally appeared on Achieve the Core, in partnership with Student Achievement Partners and later on NEAToday.org.

The following app suggestions are compiled by Dr. Bryan R. Drost the Director of Curriculum and Instruction for the ESC of Summit County. He holds a Bachelor of Arts in Spanish Education from Hiram College, a Master’s of Education in Educational Foundations with an emphasis in Standards-Based instruction, as well as a Ph.D. in Curriculum and Instruction with an emphasis in assessment from Kent State University. Here are his recommendations, in his own words.

Often, students with special needs who are struggling in math need some type of visual to represent mathematical relationships. When this isn’t provided, these students will shut down and become frustrated. To be frank, many of us need those visuals. In addition to providing just such a visual, Desmos harnesses the social nature of online interactions into meaningful math inquiry. For example, by using the Function Carnival tool, students are given the freedom to experiment with functions and are given direct feedback that allows them to revise their thinking and improve their mathematical practices AND practice perseverance as they iterate and work their way to the correct solution.

Lastly, and most powerfully, this tool gives teachers the ability to randomly pair students with electronic devices, allowing students to create questions and challenges for each other based on aligned content.

This can help students with special needs as it provides a model for mathematical thinking. Check it out at https://teacher.desmos.com/.

TextTeaser

The last of my recommended apps is really one that can be used in all disciplines, and isn’t limited to math or ELA. As students progress into higher and higher grade levels or as content gets more and more challenging, it is essential to help students see the relationships between ideas.

Often, students with special needs, who have difficulty with organizing information, need support in keeping ideas and these relationships straight. Ideament is a great application that allows you to draw a diagram—a mini map, concept map, flow chart, etc.—and convert it to a text outline, and vice versa. This is a great way to help students with special needs organize information for something that they need to write. It can also be used in relationship to the text itself. For example, copying and pasting a portion of text into a Word document will allow the software to create a diagram of the text to help students organize this text and make sense of the relationships amongst ideas, perhaps say, in a science text. Students also have the option of manipulating these diagrams to reorganize them in ways that are uniquely suited for how they learn to process the information.

One of the concerns with some special needs students is that they can’t read the complex text that is required of them at grade level. Research has consistently proven that we need to make sure kids get exposure and regular practice with grade-level text. Simply giving students texts that are not at their Lexile level is problematic, so what can teachers do to ensure access to complex texts for all readers? Try one of these free Google tools! Take an on-grade-level text, maybe from Newsela. Download the free TextTeaser Google Chrome extension (it’s available for other browsers as well—just do a quick web search). TextTeaser summarizes the content from a webpage as a list of sentences or in paragraph form. What’s really great is that you adjust the output using a slider to give different detail levels of the passage or article. An intervention specialist can work in a small group or one-on-one, helping the students make sense of the larger passage. The summary can be used to preview the text or as a refresher to allow students to access the content, main ideas, and vocabulary so that they can participate in those rich, on-grade-level conversations. An alternative to TextTeaser is SMMRY (https:// smmry.com/), a tool that performs basically the same task.

November 2019 • www.maineea.org

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STORIES

CELEBRATING MAINE It’s Maine’s 200th anniversary of statehood. The bicentennial is an opportunity for educators to further allow students to learn and explore the wonders of this great state with special field trips and lessons. Here are some ways educators are celebrating the Pine Tree State in an educational and fun way.

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Maine Educator • November 2019

WHERE THE WILD THINGS ARE!

The Maine Wildlife Park is a favorite spot for students as they get the chance to explore and see first-hand the animals that roam Maine’s vast woods. In addition to touring the park and it’s more than 30 species of Maine wildlife, students learn from wildlife experts things like how do birds and mammals do their 'jobs' in the dark of night or why turtles have varied body shapes and appendages, how camouflage benefits those animals that exhibit it, and more! The hands-on experience also allows students the opportunity to learn about the Maine Wardens and how they help protect the wilderness.

THE SWEDISH COLONY IN NORTHERN MAINE

Students in Natasha Brewer’s Central Aroostook JR-SR High school visit the Maine Swedish Colony as part of the Maine history unit, learning about the Swedish Settlement in New Sweden. Students learn everything from how Swedish people came to Maine what types of tools and items they worked with in the 1800’s. “It’s a fascinating place!” says Brewer of the Colony and proves to be a great teaching tool for the students as well.

LORING HERITAGE MUSEUM History comes to life for students at Fort Fairfield High School when they listen to the stories of Ray Hildebrand, a retired teacher and former USAF and National Guard member. Hildebrand conducts tours at the Loring Military Heritage Center, sharing his personal stories from his time serving as a bombardier on B52s stationed at the base. Each year, students in Social Studies teacher Garrett Martin’s U.S. History college prep class visit the heritage center while studying the Cold War, making for an interactive and interesting way to learn about our state and its military history.

SEEDS THEY SOW-POTATO HARVEST HERITAGE

Potatoes are northern Maine’s primary agriculture product and at one point, Maine potato production was among the highest in the nation. The history of the potato and its importance to our state is something schools in The County incorporate into their teaching and learning. Entire schools, like the Dawn Barnes Elementary School, visit local farms to learn about how potatoes are grown and harvested. Local farmers at the Clayton J. Roy Farms in Caswell share their expertise with students and teachers, like Brandy Brissette, who use the local resources to enrich her students’ learning about Maine and one of its greatest sources of economic prosperity.

November 2019 • www.maineea.org

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Social Media Do's and Don'ts when you work in public schools Advice for educators from your MEA General Counsel, Andrew Mason

M

Social Media Law

any of us think nothing about posting pictures about our daily lives, sharing our comings and goings, or expressing personal opinions on any and all matters. While many people willingly accept a certain loss of privacy in order to participate in social media, that becomes a doubleedged sword if you ever become the focus of an investigation at work.

Many people (wrongly) assume that they have a First Amendment right to post or say anything they want in social media, even criticizing their employer. There are misconceptions about what an employer can and cannot do in terms of monitoring and in terms of what access it can have to an employee’s social media or electronic communications.

As a general matter, the First Amendment allows a public employee to speak as a private citizen on matters of public concern. HOWEVER, if you are a public employee and your speech is within the scope and duties of your job, such speech does not have the same protection. This is true because what you say or communicate within the sphere of your employment (in the classroom for instance) is considered speech on behalf of your employer and does not entitle you to much protection from discipline.

Therefore, the very first inquiry when evaluating whether speech is protected or not is: were the public employee’s statements made pursuant to their official duties? The United States Supreme Court has held that when a public employee engages in speech pursuant to their official duties, they are not speaking as private citizens, but as public servants, and therefore the employer’s interests are paramount.

For example, you post a “joke” on Facebook about your students being “lazy” – this sort of speech is not protected, and you could be disciplined because it does not address a matter of public concern. If you use social media and comment on students, school, or engage in conduct that impairs your ability to function as a public employee, such speech may not be protected.

Courts have upheld the discipline of teachers who post derogatory comments about a school administrator or the decisions of supervisors concerning school matters online and have upheld the disciplining or firing of teachers who inappropriately communicate with students as if they were peers. As always, the best advice is to use common sense and before you hit “send” assume that whatever you are about to post online, email, or text will be seen or accessible to everyone, including your employer. If you have any doubts or hesitation about whether it is appropriate or could offend anyone whether in context or not, your best bet is to leave the social commentary and humor to the professional comedians, and stick with posting the tried and true cat videos and pratfalls – those are always funny.

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Maine Educator • November 2019

Maine has a law protecting an employee from having their employer access their private social media accounts. Under this law, an employer may not require or coerce an employee or applicant to: disclose passwords or other means for accessing personal social media accounts; disclose any social media account information; require or coerce an employee or applicant to add anyone (the employer or an agent of the employer) to the list of contacts/friends associated with a personal social media account; or change their settings that would allow a 3rd party to view the contents of a personal social media account. And finally, an employee cannot be discharged, disciplined, or penalized, and an employer cannot fail or refuse to hire an applicant who refuses to disclose or provide access to their social media accounts.

From USM to Zimbabwe received a shipment of books from Oxford University Press.

Kruger National Park is one of Africa’s largest game reserves. With lions, leopards, rhinos, elephants and buffalos the terrain in South Africa made for a spectacular landscape for a Maine professor who visited Africa. But it wasn’t his time spent with the wildlife that left a lasting impact on his work. Here Dr. Paul Johnson, a professor at the School of Social Work at the University of Southern Maine, shared his experiences with Maine Educator, and how his time overseas has given him perspective into his career.

I was fortunate to attend and present at the International Association of Social Workers with Groups Symposium at Kruger National Park in South Africa. Everything about the Symposium was wonderful--the people, the setting, just being in Kruger National Park! The day before the formal conference began, we visited two child-care centers. One was the Amukelani Center, the other was the Siyakhula Center. These centers provide the children somewhere to go every weekday after school as well as providing them with a meal and a safe area to play in for a couple of hours.

On a return trip to Africa, my wife Peg and I travelled to Zimbabwe Ngamo School located in the Village of Ngamo, with fellow educator Chris L’Abbe from South Portland. Here, we were met by Mr. Moyo, the principal of the school and the faculty.

The first thing to strike you on visiting the Ngamo School is the involvement of the whole community in its school. People were digging the foundations of a new administrative building by hand; parents were attending to the vegetable garden that would be used to feed the children. We were given a tour of the entire school entering each classroom where we met with the children. In one classroom we were invited to sit down with the children in small groups. They asked us questions ranging from where we were born to what type of government we live under.

Following Ngamo Primary School, we headed out to visit Mlevu Primary School. We then visited St. Joseph’s where we were given a tour and taken into one classroom where there were approximately 32 five-year olds crowded into a small room. Chris, who’s been coming to Zimbabwe and working with organizations to raise funds for these schools for years, gave each child a new knit cap. In addition, the school

On traveling to each of the schools, I was amazed with how far the children need to walk in order to get there. Also, there is a lack of basic resources, such as lack of electricity, insufficient school buildings, and overcrowded classrooms-this was acutely apparent at Mlevu Primary School, where we visited the new classroom. Previously, classes had been conducted under a tree.

Peg and I were so impressed by the work that continues to be undertaken and also the wonderful relationships that have been established. At each school and in every village, we were made to feel so welcome. The trip also made me reflect as a social worker on the ethical principles of my profession. These include, service, social justice, dignity and worth of the person, and the importance of human relations. At each school I was so impressed with how everybody was valued and respected.

This visit had such a profound impact on me. Frequently, I have commented that I was so impressed with Mr. Moyo the principal at Ngamo. In talking to him, he informed me that he had started teaching at the age of 17; yet, the relationships he had with all the children, the teachers and the families were amazing. This wasn’t just a “job” but a way of life.

Mr. Moyo reinforced for me, that I need to continue to see the best and the possibilities of all the students and colleagues that I interact with at USM. Finally, he and everyone we met convinced Peg and I that in July 2020 we will be heading back to Ngamo, Mlveu, and St. Joseph’s, and we can hardly wait.

November 2019 • www.maineea.org

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American Education Week 2019

November 18-22

MONDAY

WEDNESDAY

THURSDAY

Parents Day

Education Support Professionals Day

Educator for a Day

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Encourage students, staff and parents to celebrate great public schools.

Invite parents and family members to school for a first-hand look at a typical school day.

Kickoff Day

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TUESDAY

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Wear #RedForED to recognize and celebrate ESPs who meet the needs of the whole student.

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Encourage elected officials and community leaders to serve as “educators for a day” for a hands-on school experience.

Honor and celebrate educators who are called on to substitute for regular classroom teachers in their absence for their services.

#aew2019 | www.nea.org/aew

Maine Educator • November 2019

FRIDAY

Substitute Educators Day

To infinity and BEYOND...

The Emera Astronomy Center and Jordan Planetarium at the University of Maine in Orono provide engaging astronomy and science experiences to students of all ages. The programs offered can be tailored to your classes’ needs with a variety of topics, ranging from asteroids, to exploring reefs, to space flight. For years, Maria Palopoli, a 5th grade science teacher in Brunswick, has taken classes to the planetarium in conjunction with a trip to the Challenger Learning Center, combining science and literacy goals.

“The planetarium has a specific show about the benefits of space travel which highlights not only what humans have gained from the technology, but also the work that students and professors are doing in our state for the space program,” said teacher Maria Palopoli from Harriet Beecher Stowe Elementary.

A space adventure of the third kind…

In 1969, three astronauts dared to go where no man had gone before: the Moon. Join Scooter, IQ and Nat – three tweenage flies – who go along on an incredible space adventure and discover the Moon in a new and dramatic way. “Fly Me to the Moon” introduces new generations to space exploration and the historic moment when the world was united for this awe-inspiring achievement. A family film, the story is voiced by talents, Kelly Ripa, Christopher Lloyd, Nicollette Sheridan, Tim Curry and a live action/animation cameo by real-life Apollo 11 astronaut, Buzz Aldrin. “Fly Me to the Moon” takes viewers to a place they have never been before. The program includes a tour of the night sky.

What are gravitational waves?

How are these ripples in space-time created? Albert Einstein predicted their existence in 1916, and a century later, scientists detected these waves using incredibly precise laser technology here on Earth. See the Laser Interferometer Gravitational-Wave Observatory (LIGO) and Lucia, a PhD student in physics, on an exploration of gravitational waves and their importance in helping understand the universe.

Field trips to the planitarium are available throughout the year, with a range of programs available. Some are highlighted below, and a full list of programs can be found at astro.maine.edu

Explore the secrets of the “rainforests of the sea” and embark on an oceanic safari to the world’s most vibrant and endangered marine ecosystems – coral reefs. Discover how corals grow, feed, reproduce, and support over 25% of all marine life on Earth — while facing unprecedented threats from climate change, habitat destruction, and overfishing.

Although they line about a third of tropical coastlines, reefs comprise less than one percent of the world’s ocean environments, showing how precious and fragile these systems are. Thousands of tropical fish and colorful corals thrive in one of the largest and deepest indoor displays of living corals. Narrated by Tony Award® winner Lea Salonga, Expedition Reef will immerse audiences in an undersea adventure. This fulldome planetarium show provides an up-close look at a part of our planet many people have never experienced.

Call 207-581-1341 to schedule your next school field trip or special event.

November 2019 • www.maineea.org

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Students' Spacewalk Finding their own “spacewalk” is part of a new mission for students in Caribou who witnessed history when one of their own, Caribou High School graduate Astronaut Dr. Jessica Meir, launched aboard the Expedition 61 to the International Space Station where she’ll spend six months.

The historic mission is part of multiple lesson plans at schools across Caribou, as teachers, who are also former classmates of the famous astronaut, work the mission into their teachings, encouraging students to find their own spacewalk...their own dream.

Van Buren Elementary school teacher Kristi Theriault, former Caribou classmate of Dr. Meir, shared how her students are learning about hopes, dreams and space through the work of a Mainer who has reached new heights.

By being able to share a personal story about walking in the same halls, going to the same birthday parties and playing on the same soccer field as an astronaut, my students were able to see that anything is possible, even for small town, extreme northern Mainers.

One of the sentiments I've passed on again and again in the last few weeks it that "Dr. Meir was once a fourth grader, just like you!" Space and space exploration are not things that are very familiar to students at this age. Their space knowledge includes the planets, the sun and moon, and very little else. It was a true joy for me to see their eyes light up every time I would bring up Jessica, astronauts, and anything space related.

I think the local connection was a great motivator for my students to become engaged in the lessons leading up to the launch, making it more real for them, as well as a great propeller for them to investigate space on their own. Day after day, the students would share how they used the internet with their parents to look up Jessica, NASA and even personal space travel. The space books have been flying off the shelves of our school library and into the hands of my fourth graders. It has been a long time since I saw such sincere interest and engagement.

“

Astronaut Dr. Jessica Meir, Caribou High School graduate Photo credit: NASA Johnson 26

Maine Educator • November 2019

Van Buren Elementary school teacher Kristi Theriault

Together, the RSU, City of Caribou and NASA STEM are creating a monthlong inclusive celebration of learning and community. Students in grades 6-12 will gather in the Caribou Performing Arts Center to see and speak with Dr. Jessica Meir while she performs vital research aboard the International Space Station during Expedition 61. Students in K-5 will watch from the Caribou Middle School, and remote locations will be hosted throughout Caribou for people to experience the historic moment.

“In the Caribou High School Class of 1995 yearbook, Dr. Meir’s future goal was listed as ‘to go for a spacewalk,’” said Caribou High School Principal Travis Barnes. “Our team wants to show students and community members that they too can achieve their goals and dreams with hard work, education and vision.”

Jessica Meir @Astro_Jessica This is how it feels when in addition to your childhood dream being fulfilled by arriving to @Space_Station, you’re greeted by your Astrobrothers and sisters on the other side of the hatch.

Students imagined themselves in space with their own craft spacesuits, proudly displayed in their school hallway.

Students in Ms. Jen’s and Mrs. Ayer’s kindergarten classrooms watched the live liftoff of the space craft carrying astronaut Jessica Meir. The class then made astronaut crafts and posted them in the hallway, as they pictured themselves in space.

November 2019 • www.maineea.org

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sugar sweetened beverages.

It was an instant success.

It was great to see my coworkers filling their bottles up at the water coolers.

Off and Running

Pemetic Elementary School launches the Pemfit Wellbeing Program Research shows that when teachers are stressed out, it not only negatively affects their lives but the lives of their students as well. Finding a self-care routine with a work-life balance you can live with is important to both your health and your career. In several communities across the state Wellness Ambassadors, a program run through the MEA Benefits Trust, help educators find ways to stay healthy through unique ways. Here’s the story of one Wellness Ambassador and how integrating well-being into their school environment changed lives.

From Member Contributor, Ellen Nolan, Wellness Ambassador, AOS91 Pemetic School, Southwest Harbor After attending a wellness conference with a coworker, I realized that my school district, AOS 91 Mount Desert Island Regional School System, needed a Wellness Ambassador for our district. I was actively thinking: how could I change this? Could I take this task on? After speaking with administration, and getting some training from the MEABT, it was official. For the next year I would become the wellness ambassador at Pemetic Elementary School. Pemfit, as I call it, was off and running, literally.

My thoughts were to start this wellness journey off small with something easy. I went out into our community in order to get sponsors to fund a new water bottle for all staff members with the school logo.

All I asked in return for the gift, that they drank more water instead of 28

Maine Educator • November 2019

Late fall and throughout the winter, we worked on weight loss and increasing physical activity. We had great success getting people active and in turn losing weight. We put together fun activities that participants could do with coworkers, friends or family. We featured, “out and about in Acadia" weekends.

My coworkers were asked to hike, bike, walk, ski, or snowshoe in our local national park to get physically active. They were also tasked with taking a selfie with the park sign and to submit the photo. Everyone who participated was entered into a drawing for a membership to our local gym. The pictures rolled in.

Our school PTO was also very helpful. They funded a healthy meal on a conference night in order to prevent our teachers from making bad food choices when they got home late.

A fruit infused water station was set up so they could stay hydrated on an in-service day.

Our staff members were taking their health seriously. They were visually improving but it was also apparent that they were mentally feeling better about themselves and each other.

They were coming together to support each other in their quest for better health. Teachers began engaging with each other throughout the day about their personal goals and new recipes. In addition, they were getting together to take one of the many classes offered to them. Classes included spinning, belly dancing, weight-lifting, or hiking. Health and fitness became the hallway topic.

Activities were planned to go bowling, snowshoeing, and run 5Ks. It was very rewarding to see the comradery develop between the staff members.

Support, encouragement, and inspiration are the best things you can give to someone, and I am proud to be a part of that at Pemetic Elementary School. I have performed as a liaison between the staff and wellness to the best of my ability. After a successful year, I was asked to continue as the wellness ambassador. One of the teachers approached me to let me know that PemFit had changed her life. How could I say no? I am so lucky to have the staff and administration of Pemetic school. They have supported me, the wellness program, and each other every step of the way in order to become the happiest and healthiest we can be.

Interested in becoming a wellness ambassador at your school?

Check out: http://meabt.org/wellness-programs

The wait is over!

Discounted Courses May Help Members Save

Increase Pay

up to

$925 e mem ach year bersh with MEA ip!

Online course memberships for MEA members

The Maine Education Association, University of Maine at Presque Isle and Virtual Education Software have partnered to offer MEA members access to online courses available for Continuing Education Units (CEUs).

"

NOW AVAILABLE!

Courses available to members include everything from advanced classroom management to understanding aggression: coping with aggressive behavior in the classroom to the traumatized child: the effects of stress, trauma and violence on student learning.

Maine Education Association (MEA), Course Membership Details University of Maine at Presque Isle (UMPI) and Virtual Education Software (VESi) have partnered to offer MEA members One low annual Course access to online courses available for Membership Fee of Continuing Education Unitsper(CEUs). $175.00 year

I have found these courses super easy to sign up for, log in is a breeze. Navigation on each course page is very easy, no problems at all! The content is stimulating and challenging but I really like the Visit virtualeduc.com/mea or call 1-800-313-6744 for more information. format (each of my courses has had 4 tests). I will hopefully get One low annual course membership Course topics include: some time to take my fourth and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder feefor of the $175.00 per year final one BARGAIN price You mayDisorders take one course Autism & Asperger’s of $175...SUPER AFFORDABLE!!! term for a total of Classroom each Management 4.5 CEUs AmazingEarn deal!3Itor will allow me to fourInstruction courses each year Differentiated earn 12 credits total for the year Early Childhood Education and movefrom on the pay30 scale from for Choose over courses Harassment, Bullying & Cyber-intimidation M+15 to M+30. Thanks again so re-certification/authorization renewal Reading & Writing much for making this easy-peasy!

Response to Intervention It’s EXACTLY what teachers need! I Talented and Gifted You may take oneitcourse each term can’t recommend highly enough Teaching Diversity andfor have been of sharing the info with a total four each year Choose from over Teaching Math Conceptually all of my colleagues! - Donna C., 30 courses for and many more. re-certification/ Lake Region Schools

Visit virtualeduc.com/mea or call 1-800-313-6744 for more information.

"

authorization renewal

CEUs granted through University of Maine at Presque Isle.

We recommend that you check with your school district and/or state licensing agency to verify these course offerings November will meet your district and/or state requirements for re-certification/authorization renewal.2019 • www.maineea.org

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Calendar Ongoing

Nov.

5

Nov.

5

2020

National Board Certification Workshops

Apple MLTI Fall 2019 Regional Tech Briefing

The Impact of ACEs and Resilience Building

MEA Pre-Retirement Seminars

These workshops are designed to give you the information and encouragement that you need to complete the National Board Certification process. Find out what is involved, the time commitments required and how to get assistance with fees.

The Apple and DOE MLTI project teams invite you to attend the Apple MLTI Fall 2019 Regional Tech Briefings. The focus this fall will be "Gaining Efficiencies" with an emphasis on strategies and procedures that will help streamline the jobs of the IT department. The content of these sessions is geared toward technical leads, but we encourage anyone who supports MLTI schools attend.

Join other child care and preschool/prek professionals and learn about Adverse Childhood Experiences research, early brain development science and protective factors such as positive relationships.

Strategies to promote resilience building in classrooms and support families and their children birth-5 will be offered.

Upcoming MEA Pre-Retirement seminars:

WORKSHOPS ARE HELD AT MEA OFFICES IN AUGUSTA, BANGOR & SOUTH PORTLAND ALL TIMES ARE FROM 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM Saturday, December 14 Saturday, January 11 Saturday, February 29 Saturday, March 14 Saturday, April 11 Visit maineea.org/nationalboard-certification to register!

Special Presenter: MLTI & Apple

Special Presenter: Maine Resilience Building Network

Cost: Free

Cost: Free

Date: Nov. 5, 9:00AM-11:00AM

Date(s): Nov. 5, 6:00PM - 8:30PM

Location: Hancock County Technical Center, Ellsworth

Location: York Middle School

March 4, 2020 - Belfast 4:00PM - 7:00PM March 11, 2020 - Kennebunk 4:00PM - 7:00PM March 18, 2020 - Skowhegan 4:00PM - 7:00PM March 25, 2020 - Auburn 4:00PM - 7:00PM April 1, 2020 - Ellsworth 4:00PM - 7:00PM

Visit Maineea.org to register today!

FMI: maineresilience.org

FMI: https://apple.co/35B4GTT

It's hard to believe it's time to get ready for the new school year. As you prepare for returning students, you should also think about preparing for your own financial future.

Supplemental retirement plans offered in your district are one of the best places for you to set aside money for your future. Why participate?

• Earnings in the account grow tax-deferred.

• You determine how much you want deducted from your paycheck – which you can change at your convenience.

• The contributions you make are saved through convenient, automatic payroll deductions – you won’t even miss them.

• Any contributions you make are always 100% vested –so the money you save is always yours.

Whether or not Horace Mann is an approved provider in your district's supplemental retirement plan,it ’s important that you participate to help prepare for a healthy financial future. Contact your local Horace Mann representative to get more information on how to help protect what you have today and achieve a more secure financial future.

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Maine Educator • November 2019

Save Money. Earn Cash.

SHOP for Medical Care

Prices for the exact same quality medical services can vary from hundreds to thousands of dollars.

Introducing SmartShopper, the shopping and savings program for your medical care. As an Anthem member, you may have access to SmartShopper, which saves you money on your share of the cost when you need certain medical procedures or screenings. To find out if SmartShopper is included in your plan, contact Anthem Customer Service at the phone number on your ID card. SmartShopper also earns you a cash reward*, just for choosing to have the procedure at a high-quality location that saves you money.

TO REGISTER Call the SmartShopper Personal Assistant Team at 1-844-328-1582, or visit VitalsSmartShopper.com and follow the simple prompts.

Sample Procedures and Rewards When You Use SmartShopper Listed Locations

Procedure

Your Reward

STEP 1: SHOP

Cataract Removal

up to $150

When your doctor recommends a certain medical test, service or procedure, call the Personal Assistant Team or visit SmartShopper online to search for a reasonably priced location in your area.

Colonoscopy

up to $150

CT Scan**

up to $150

STEP 2: GO

Gallbladder Removal

up to $250

Hernia Repair

up to $250

Hip Replacement

up to $500

Knee Surgery (Arthroscopic)

up to $250

Mammogram

up to $50

MRI**

up to $150

Shoulder Surgery (Arthroscopic)

up to $250

Ultrasound

up to $50

Upper GI Endoscopy

up to $150

Have the procedure at one of the locations on the SmartShopper list.

STEP 3: EARN Four to six weeks after the procedure, SmartShopper mails a check* to your home. No forms. No hassles. It’s that easy.

Visit us anytime at VitalsSmartShopper.com or call 1-844-328-1582 Monday through Thursday from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. or Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m

Nasal/Sinus - Endoscopy up to $150 - Sinus Surgery

**Effective 2/1/2018.

N

REGISTRATION IS NOW OPEN Visitfor VitalsSmartShopper.com for information!31 *Members on Medicare are not eligible SmartShopper Program November 2019 • more www.maineea.org

*Reward payments may be taxable The Vitals SmartShopper program is available to PPO and HMO Maine SG plans only.

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. The Blue Cross and Blue Shield names and symbols are registered marks of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association.

SS_ME_9.17

Application forms can be found online at clyderussellscholarshipfund.org Deadline: FEBRUARY 1, 2020 THE TRUSTEES HAVE DESIGNATED TWO DIFFERENT CATEGORIES OF AWARDS: Graduating high school seniors who will attend a four year college Graduating high school seniors who will attend a Maine community college

MEA MAGAZINE ART COVER CONTEST

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”. 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 need to include name of the student, the school, and the teacher’s name and email.

WHO: Grades K-5, 6-8, 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.

HOW: Submit artwork to Giovanna Bechard via email at contest@maineea.org or mail to: Giovanna Bechard, 35 Community Drive, Augusta, ME 04330 Deadline: April 29, 2020

MEA/SEA DOGS “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 2019 Sea Dogs game for themselves, their family and their school hero. Send essays to contest@maineea.org or by mail to: Giovanna Bechard 35 Community Drive, Augusta, ME 04330 Deadline: April 29, 2020 32

Maine Educator • November 2019

MEA is proud to honor both educators and those who support public education with a variety of awards. Please consider nominating a colleague or friend of public education today!

For a complete list of award descriptions, visit our website at maineea.org/awards-grants

Awards Offered Anne Sheehan Political Action Award Corporate Award Friend of Education Award Golden Apple Award

Honor Medal Award Human and Civil Rights Award John H. Marvin Local Association Public Higher Education Impact Award

APPLY ONLINE AT MAINEEA.ORG/ AWARDS-GRANTS

DEADLINE: March 7, 2020