BUILD A FOUNDATION OF STRONG SCHOOLS
Maine kids are falling behind, and it’s not their fault. In 2024, Maine fourth graders had the lowest reading and math scores we’ve seen in three decades, and it’s the single largest drop of any state since 2019. Three out of four are moving past third grade without the reading skills they need to succeed, and students who aren’t proficient by that point are four times more likely to drop out of high school. In the same classrooms, too many kids show up tired, hungry, and anxious.. Maine can do better, our children deserve better, and we cannot keep treating this as someone else’s problem. This is a crisis that Augusta leadership has failed to address. As Governor, I will lead the fight to make sure Maine is once again a national leader in educating our kids.
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Maine’s economy starts in our classrooms. In 2024 Maine’s fourth grade reading skills fall further below other states, and three out of four students are moving past fourth grade without the skills they need. Parents do not need education jargon, they deserve to know their child can read and is being set up for success in the future. As Governor, I will make sure more students leave school ready for real life, real work, and real opportunity here in Maine. That means stronger reading and math foundations, better career pathways, and a system that connects education to the jobs and industries Maine actually needs.
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If we want a stronger economy tomorrow, we need stronger schools today. As Governor, I will help recruit and keep great teachers by supporting paid student teaching, mentoring new educators, and building real pathways for talented people to teach and stay in Maine.
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Too many young people graduate without a clear connection between school and a future here at home. As Governor, I will strengthen career and technical education, expand employer partnerships, and make sure more students can move from classroom to career without leaving the state they love.
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Maine should be competing to bring back our kids, attract young families, and welcome veterans and skilled workers who want to build a life here. As Governor, I will make sure every Maine student graduates with a real plan and a real opportunity here at home, so choosing Maine for the long term isn’t a risk; it’s the obvious choice.
