Expand Experiential Learning
Expand experiential, real-world learning that builds life skills and future readiness for all students, K-12. Make it happen through three levers: professional development for educators, curriculum development, and community partnerships, with developmentally appropriate experiences at every grade level.
The problem
Students often lack relevant hands-on learning, are disengaged in class, and find themselves unprepared for the future.
Why it's urgent
Very urgent. It affects workforce readiness, population retention (kids leaving the state), community health and economy, academic performance, student mental health and well-being, and Maine's innovation economy — in both the near and long term.
Root cause
A disconnect between schools and communities, combined with the fact that not all families can provide these experiences and that schools often lack the training and resources to do this well and consistently.
How to get there
A repository of best practices; funding for professional development and curriculum; incentives for small businesses and community partners; and revisiting the Maine Learning Standards (whether to add, emphasize, or clarify), paired with accountability and incentives to do it well.
Risks to watch
Not every student thrives with this approach, and there's a risk of deemphasizing traditional learning or narrowing too far toward CTE/job training at the expense of broader skills. Worth noting: this supplements rather than replaces traditional learning, and experiential learning supports academic achievement.
If we succeed
Students are well-rounded and well-prepared for the future, in thriving local economies and communities.