Maine

An innovative approach to literacy launches a new chapter in Maine education

Published

1 year ago

November 18, 2024

An innovative approach to literacy launches a new chapter in Maine education

Learning to read is a special experience. There’s a sense of triumph in sounding out that first word and later, a sense of magic that accompanies understanding a story—the moment when squiggles on a page turn into characters and plotlines.

“There’s nothing quite like watching a child fall in love with reading,” said Heather Martin, Maine Department of Education Interdisciplinary Instruction Specialist and former school librarian. “When students learn to master literacy skills, they’re not just learning to read. They’re learning about themselves as a lifelong learner.”

Recognizing literacy as the cornerstone of learning, Gov. Janet Mills has directed $10 million in federal COVID-era funding to go toward evidence-based literacy programs across Maine schools. As a result, these Maine Department of Education (DOE) literacy grants, distributed in early 2024, are reshaping how Maine schools approach reading instruction.

The literacy skills that students develop at an early age often lead them through their educational journey and into adulthood. Photo courtesy of Patra Company Visual Marketing Solutions.

“This initiative ensures every student, regardless of their background, has the opportunity to thrive,” Maine DOE Commissioner Pender Makin said. “We’re not just investing in books and programs. We’re investing in Maine’s future.”

At George E. Jack School in Standish, that investment is transforming how educators approach each student’s unique needs. Instead of following a standard literacy curriculum, teachers analyze individual learning styles and challenges, creating personalized pathways to reading success.

“Some students might need help with orthographic mapping, while others need support with phonological awareness,” said Victoria Sibley, an instructional coach and math interventionist at George E. Jack. “Maine should prioritize literacy in schools because reading is a right, and reading gives kids an opportunity. We need kids to be able to read, so they have the options to be who they want to be.”

The emphasis on evidence-based instructional programs has sparked unprecedented collaboration among teachers and administrators statewide. By analyzing data and assessing specific school needs, educators are making informed decisions about funding allocation, ensuring investments directly benefit students in their unique communities.

Literacy lessons can look different from classroom to classroom, incorporating everything from art to arithmetic. Photo courtesy of Patra Company Visual Marketing Solutions.

Through the AIM Institute for Learning and Research©, the Maine DOE has developed comprehensive professional development modules ranging from three to 11 hours in length. These modules cover essential topics from the Science of Reading to specialized instruction for English language learners, giving educators the tools they need to reach every student.

“A strong foundation in literacy is essential for our students’ success across all subjects,” said Beth Lambert, Maine DOE’s Chief Teaching and Learning Officer. “Through this grant, we’re creating a collaborative environment where educators can grow and innovate, ensuring every child in Maine has the opportunity to thrive as a reader and writer.”

The response from Maine’s education community has been overwhelming. Nearly 900 educators—including teachers, administrators, educational technicians and specialists—have completed more than 22,000 hours of professional learning through these modules. Federal emergency relief funding provided stipends to teachers who completed these vital literacy modules during the summer months, recognizing their dedication to professional growth.

Even outside of the Maine Literacy Grant, the Maine DOE’s Interdisciplinary Instruction team has continued to expand the initiative’s reach by developing online courses focused on inclusive learning. These courses address crucial topics like the neuroscience of the developing brain, strategies for engaging reluctant learners and methods for fostering critical thinking skills through literacy.

Letter recognition is one of the first skills in literacy that a student will learn. Photo courtesy of Patra Company Visual Marketing Solutions.

They’ve also invested in a four-workshop series integrating literacy through innovative pathways, including applied science and mapmaking. Available both in-person and virtually, these workshops ensure educators across Maine’s diverse geography can access vital professional development opportunities.

This initiative’s comprehensive approach, combining substantial financial support, intensive professional development and evidence-based practices, positions Maine as a leader in literacy education. In fact, Maine has some of the highest literacy rates for students in the country. As educators collaborate and innovate, they’re not just teaching reading and writing; they’re opening doors to lifelong learning and success for every Maine student.

“Through these grants and professional development opportunities, we’re building a foundation for the future of Maine education,” Commissioner Makin said. “When we invest in literacy, we invest in possibilities for our students, our schools and our state.”

The Maine Literacy Grant is a part of Maine’s Whole Student Pandemic Response and was made possible by federal emergency relief funding. For more information about Maine’s literacy initiatives and how the Maine DOE used federal funding to support the whole student, visit the Maine DOE website

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Maine

Rage Room in Portland, Maine, Developing ‘Scream Room’ Addition

Published

10 hours ago

March 4, 2026

Press Room

Rage Room in Portland, Maine, Developing ‘Scream Room’ Addition

For a lot of people throughout Maine, there’s some built up frustration that they’ve just been keeping inside.

That frustration can come in a lot of different forms. From finances to relationships to the world around you.

So it makes plenty of sense that a rage room opened in Portland, Maine, where people can let some of that frustration out.

It’s called Mayhem and people have been piling in to smash, crush and do dastardly things to inanimate objects that had no idea what was coming.

But Mayhem has realized not everyone is down with swinging a sledgehammer. So they’ve decided to cook up something new.

Mayhem Creating ‘Scream Room’ at Their Space in Portland, Maine

Perhaps the thought of swinging a baseball bat and destroying a glass vase brings you joy. The thought of how sore your body will be after that moment makes you less excited.

Mayhem Portland has heard you loud and clear and is developing a new way to get the rage out. By just screaming.

Mayhem is working on opening their very first scream room. It’s exactly what you think it is, a safe place to spend some time just screaming all of the frustration out.

There isn’t an official opening date set yet but it’s coming soon along with pricing.

Mayhem in Portland, Maine, Will Still Offer Rage Rooms and Paint Splatter

While a scream room is on the way, you can still experience a good time at Mayhem with one of their rage rooms or a paint splatter room.

Both can be experienced in either 20-minute or 30-minute sessions.

All the details including some age and attire requirements can be found here.

TripAdvisor’s Top 10 Things to do in Portland, Maine

Looking for fun things to do in Portland, ME? Here is what the reviewers on TripAdvisor say are the 10 best attractions.

This list was updated in March of 2026

Gallery Credit: Chris Sedenka

Top 15 of The Most Powerful People in Maine

Ever wonder who the most powerful players are in Maine? I’ve got a list!

Gallery Credit: Getty Images

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Maine

Maine competition gives creative entrepreneurs the chance to win money

Published

22 hours ago

March 4, 2026

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Maine competition gives creative entrepreneurs the chance to win money

BANGOR, Maine (WABI) – If you’ve ever wondered what goes into pitching a good business idea, you might want to stop by a Big Gig event.

The Big Gig Entrepreneurship Pitch Off brings professionals from across the state together to network and pitch their early-stage business ideas for a chance to win $500.

Tuesday’s competition was held at the Salty Brick Market in Bangor, and it drew a lot of spectators.

“The winners of each semifinal event get $500 and the opportunity to compete for $5,000, so that can make a huge impact on a business that’s just getting off the ground,” said Renee Kelly, a Big Gig organizer.

The winner of the competition, Colin McGuire, was also grateful for the opportunity to showcase his idea “Art on Tap,” which would connect local artists with local venues trying to put on events.

“The support tonight is huge, and it’s just giving me more enthusiasm for running with the idea,” he said.

The season finale of the competition will be held May 19th.

The location is yet to be determined.

If you’d like to apply to compete in the contest, you can go to biggig.org.

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Maine

This Monster Burrito Challenge in Waterville, Maine, Is Not for the Weak

Published

1 day ago

March 3, 2026

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This Monster Burrito Challenge in Waterville, Maine, Is Not for the Weak

Are you up for a Maine food challenge, or are your eyes bigger than your stomach?

A Waterville staple, Buen Apetito has a monster burrito just waiting for someone to eat it down to the very last bite.

This thing is a beast, literally called La Bestia, and it’s definitely a mighty task for a fearless foodie.

Take on the Buen Apetito La Bestia Food Challenge in Waterville, Maine

According to Buen Apetito, if you can finish a super-sized burrito in 30 minutes or less, you’ll get the $60 meal for free, a La Bestia champion shirt, and a picture on the wall of fame. That’s not to mention the bragging rights of dominating a task few will be able to conquer.

Wondering what’s in the burrito?

The Mexican restaurant shared in a Facebook comment on a post that the burrito is filled with “grilled chicken, chorizo, and tender shredded beef or pork. Built on a layer of seasoned rice, refried beans, and French fries, it’s melted together with a shredded Mexican cheese blend and a drizzle of creamy cheese sauce, sautéed peppers and onions, green salsa, pico de gallo, sour cream, creamy guacamole, and a bed of shredded lettuce all wrapped in three extra-large tortillas fused into one epic wrap.”

Let’s just say that this thing is packed full.

The first La Bestia contender took up his fork and knife in December 2025, but despite coming close, he couldn’t come out with the win.

As of March 2026, the challenge has remained undefeated. But you never know, someone is bound to come out victorious.

Just note that you can only try your hand at this food challenge on Wednesday and Thursday.

Buen Apetito Has Been a Longstanding Waterville, Maine, Restaurant

First opened in 1999, Buen Apeitito has been around for nearly 30 years.

Centralmaine.com reported that the Mexican restaurant was originally located at the Railroad Square complex off Chaplin Street before moving to 99 West River Road in 2023.

A little over a year later, in 2024, Buen Apetito shared on Facebook that it was passing on the torch to new owners, including Dalia, “the heart and soul of [the] kitchen for twenty years,” her daughter, Norma, and Norma’s husband, Shawn.

READ MORE: Famous Maine Restaurant Buen Apetito Adds Powerhouse New Owner to Crew

And it seems like not only are things still going strong, but new additions like La Bestia food challenge are only enhancing the spirit of big flavor and delicious Mexican food at the Waterville staple.

So, you think you’re up for the task of taking down a beast of a burrito at Buen Apetito? Good luck.