Mentoring & Induction
Mentors play a critical role in supporting the growth and development of new educators. The following resources and supports are available to support the mentoring and induction of new teachers and administrators.
Mentorship Trainings
The Maine Department of Education (DOE) Educator Excellence Team is excited to be hosting its Annual Mentor Trainings in locations across Maine this August and September.
This no-cost professional learning opportunity is intended for teachers interested in mentoring new educators or educators who are new to their school administrative unit (SAU). It is designed to support and strengthen educator mentorship statewide by providing attendees with the tools, knowledge, and community needed to make a meaningful impact.
Registration is open now through July 20, 2026. See below for sign-up links.
The Annual Mentor Training builds upon prior collaborative work with teacher leaders, administrators, and higher education and technical assistance center partners. It has recently been updated with the latest research and best practices in mentoring and inclusive education. Designed with direct input from educators, the training follows a scaffolded approach to provide a more personalized, just-in-time learning experience.
Training Format
- A one-day, in-person session from 8:30 AM – 3:00 PM
- One virtual follow-up session (two hours, mid-year)
- Contact hours awarded for all training components
- Training offered at no cost
- Access to a mentor forum through EnGiNE for ongoing support, networking, and resource sharing with mentors throughout the state
- Community of practice meetings offered virtually in the fall and spring
- Updated materials and resources available for SAUs to use locally with new mentors
- Office hour sign-up available during the school year for ongoing support
All sessions run from 8:30 AM to 3:00 PM. Select the date/location most convenient for you.
| Date | Location | Register |
|---|---|---|
| Tuesday, August 4, 2026 | York County Community College, Wells | Register |
| Wednesday, August 12, 2026 | Eastern Maine Community College, Bangor | Register |
| Thursday, August 20, 2026 | Bates College, Lewiston | Register |
| Friday, September 18, 2026 | Aroostook County (in collaboration with CACE) | Via CACE |
Be the mentor who makes a difference.
What Participants Are Saying
"This will help me to start a mentorship off on the right foot. Thank you!"
"It is never too late to invest in the success of future teachers! Be proactive and engage others before they leave the system."
"Like our students, we all learn in different ways, and we need to find a way that will help the mentee the best."
"I realize the important role I could have in a new teacher's life."
Customized Resources & Supports
The Maine Department of Education has developed mentor training modules to support districts when training new mentors. Specific mentor requirements can now be found in Rule Chapter 180.
Requirements
- Hold a Professional license
- Have an effectiveness rating of at least effective
- Districts may establish additional criteria for the selection of mentors and scope of responsibilities
Responsibilities
- Mentor for a minimum of 1 year
- Complete a minimum of two observations annually
- Provide ongoing support and feedback
Resources
Maine SEEDS (Special Educator Engagement, Development, and Support) is a partnership between the Maine Department of Education Office of Special Services and Inclusive Education and the University of Maine College of Education and Human Development.
SEEDS offers structured support for new and conditionally certified special educators, works to build special educator mentor capacity, and engages in efforts to support "Grow Your Own" special educator workforce initiatives at the local level.
SEEDS ensures that novice special educators are mentored by veteran special educators, offers a one-semester course in special education process for those with minimal relevant coursework, and coordinates online Community of Practice cohorts for first-year special educators.
Valerie M. Smith, Ph.D.
Coordinator
Phone: 207-581-2419
Email: valerie.smith@maine.edu
The Maine Principals' Association has developed a comprehensive mentorship program for novice principals and assistant principals. The program recently expanded to offer supports to experienced educators in new positions who desire a mentor/coach.
Mentor Responsibilities
- Have weekly contact with the protégé; monthly in-person meetings are required
- Visit the protégé's school and provide observation feedback
- Assist in the development of a written learning plan
- Submit a reflection regularly
- Attend required trainings and meetings
Resources
Application for experienced people who want to become a mentor to a new administrator (contact MPA below).
Dr. Holly D. Blair
Executive Director, Maine Principals' Association
Phone: 207-622-0217, ext. 126
Email: hblair@mpa.cc
Contact
Christina L. O'Neal, PhD
Educator Excellence Coordinator
Email: Christina.L.ONeal@maine.gov