Sen. Rafferty introduces legislation to improve professional growth for educators

Posted: March 11, 2025 | Senator Rafferty

AUGUSTA ­­— On March 11, 2025, Sen. Joe Rafferty, D-Kennebunk, introduced LD 470, “An Act to Require School Administrative Units to Adopt Mentoring Programs for Teachers and to Improve Existing Programs,” to the Joint Standing Committee on Education and Cultural Affairs.

“Creating strong mentorship programs is integral for establishing strong retention of our newest teachers,” said Sen. Rafferty. “Such a program would include opportunities for all educators to share, learn and continually improve their practices through collaboration with their educational peers, with a goal of ongoing professional growth for educators.”

LD 470 aims to strengthen school systems by creating mentorship programs designed to attract and ensure the success of new staff members, specifically those conditionally certified staff and educational specialists. School administrative unites would have the option of either using a peer support program developed by the Department of Education, or they can submit plans to the department for approval.

LD 470 awaits further action in committee.