Senate gives initial approval of Sen. Rafferty bill to promote a high-quality teacher workforce
AUGUSTA — Today, the Maine Senate voted 19-13 in favor of LD 470, “Resolve, Directing the Department of Education to Review Teacher Mentoring Programs in Maine Public Schools,” a bill sponsored by Sen. Joe Rafferty, D-Kennebunk, to take a detailed look at mentoring programs that support Maine’s critical teacher workforce.
“I am grateful that my colleagues see the need for our qualified teachers to instill their invaluable experience in the next generation of educators, ensuring our students receive the best education possible,” said Sen. Rafferty. “This bill charts a solid path towards ensuring Maine’s new educators have the support they need to be successful and adapt quickly to the school environment.”
As amended by the committee, LD 470 would direct the Maine Department of Education, in consultation with relevant stakeholders, to review the current status of teacher mentoring programs in public schools and report back to the Education and Cultural Affairs Committee in the Second Regular Session of the 132nd Legislature. The report would help the Committee make well-informed decisions about how mentoring programs may need to be improved or expanded upon.
The Maine Department of Education defines an effective mentor as one who “serves as an advocate for the beginning educator and assists him or her in finding resources. Mentors also provide emotional support and problem solve with the beginning educator. As the mentor and mentee relationship evolves into more collegiality, the meetings focus on such issues as effective planning and instruction, differentiation, curriculum, assessment, and student achievement.”
LD 470 faces additional votes in the Senate and House.
Sen. Rafferty is serving his third term in the Maine Senate, representing Berwick, Cape Porpoise, Kennebunk, Kennebunkport, North Berwick and Wells. He serves as the Senate Chair of the Education and Cultural Affairs Committee and serves on the Labor Committee.