Ongoing Professional Development

Leadership Teams Grant Award Announced

June 5, 2008

Executive Director Dr. Wallace Alexander of the Maine Association for Middle Level Education (MAMLE) announced the award of major foundation funding for improving Maine's middle grades education. The statewide initiative will enable MAMLE to provide extremely affordable, high quality, ongoing professional development for school leadership teams in Maine's schools containing grades 5-9.

Teams of principals and teacher-leaders from around the state will be invited to participate in monthly regional workshops focusing on current research and effective leadership practices linked to improved learning for all students. Jill Spencer and Chris Toy, both of whom have extensive experience in teaching, school leadership, and consulting with middle grades in Maine and North America, will facilitate the yearlong series beginning in September.

Currently there are two regional locations planned, one in Bangor and another in Brunswick. MAMLE has stated that the project will schedule additional locations farther north in Aroostook and Down East if five or more schools in either of those regions request to participate in the Leadership Team Series.

MAMLE Executive Director Dr. Wallace Alexander said, "Personally I'm very excited about the Leadership Team Series. It may be the most important initiative that MAMLE has undertaken to help improve learning for Maine's middle level students. And, at $25 per participant it's one of the most cost effective uses of staff development funds I've ever seen. We are just delighted to provide this opportunity for Maine's middle level schools during these challenging budget times! We want to extend our appreciation to the Horizon Foundation for their vision and generous support for young adolescents and the professionals that work in their behalf."

Participating schools are asked to send teams of at least four school leaders to each monthly session. Each team must include either the principal or an assistant principal. Foundation support will keep the cost at $800 per school team for the eight daylong workshops and includes reduced pricing for conferences and resources from MAMLE and the National Middle School Association.

For more information or to participate in the grant please contact Dr. Alexander.

Dr. Wallace Alexander
MAMLE Executive Director
Thomas College
180 West River Road
Waterville, ME 04901
859-1111