What do delegates do?
Delegates gather for two days in person in Bangor, Maine and one half-day virtually to learn, deliberate, and decide: learn about education in Maine; deliberate on the issues, challenges, and future visions; and decide which actions legislators and our next governor should prioritize. They also meet legislators, community-organization leaders, and other experts — informally and through panels and discussions.
How were delegates selected?
Delegates were chosen by sortition — a lottery — using Panelot. Each county has four delegates, one from each of four age groups: 16–17, 18–32, 33–54, and 55+. Across the state, delegates were selected to provide a broadly representative balance across gender, race and ethnicity, political leaning, and educational attainment.
Where gaps remained after the lottery closed, organizers reached out to community organizations to locate additional volunteers. Neither CEPARE nor any affiliated organization hand-selects delegates. Selected delegates attend at least one one-hour virtual prep session, two consecutive in-person days in Bangor, and one half-day virtual session.
Questions? Email [email protected].
Delegates are part of something real
Recommendations go to Maine legislators and to candidates for governor. Lawmakers from both parties have committed to working with the delegates' priorities in Fall 2026, supported by MEPRI at USM.
Delegates are supported
Delegates who attend all sessions receive a $750 stipend. Meals and accommodations are provided in Bangor, and travel support is available. If the way delegates learn best isn't already built in, CEPARE works with them.
Students are full participants
Student delegates have a dedicated teacher for support and the same voting power as adults. A quarter of the delegates are high school students.
No special background needed
Delegates receive briefings from researchers, hear from educators and community leaders, and work with materials prepared for the Assembly. No experience necessary.
Delegates come from across the state
Delegates come from all 16 counties and from every age group, background, and political perspective.