Maine's Educational Standing Plummets Over Decade, Raising Concerns
Maine's educational standing has slipped significantly over the past decade. The state's achievement scores have plummeted, with a 27-spot drop in the rankings, from 14th in 2015 to 41st in 2025. This decline has raised concerns among educators and lawmakers alike.
The state's poor performance is reflected in its open enrollment policies. Maine scored zero points in all seven categories of open enrollment, placing it alongside Alaska, North Carolina, and Maryland at the bottom. The state allows transfers only under exceptional circumstances, lacking a comprehensive open enrollment policy. This lack of flexibility has been criticized as one of the worst in the U.S.
The drop in scores is primarily due to falling reading and math proficiency rates for three-quarters of students in fourth and eighth grades. Rep. Mike Lance, R-South Paris, attributes this decline to a policy change that shifted focus away from traditional academic learning. The state's education association does not track rejected transfer requests or provide an appeals process, further hindering progress.
The current leader of the Department of Public Instruction has been vocal about concerns regarding the lack of transparency and continuity in civics curricula among Maine's schools. They emphasize the need for improved civic engagement and community involvement in education.
Maine's educational achievement scores have dropped significantly, with poor open enrollment policies and declining proficiency rates in reading and math. Lawmakers and educators agree that changes are needed to improve the state's educational standing. Addressing these issues will require a concerted effort to enhance transparency, continuity in civics education, and flexibility in school choice.
