According to the Office of Governor Paul Lepage, Stephen Bowen as Department of Education commissioner was nominated as reported on February 16, 2011 in media documents. Currently, ” Bowen is a Senior Policy Advisor for Governor LePage’s administration.” [source] He was subsequently sworn into office, according to this news record: Bowen Sworn in as Education Chief.
Does this nomination and election impact the future of Maine Eduation?
It’s difficult to say for sure. Governor Lepage, according to public records, actively works regarding matters of education and reform to include teacher benefits and pensions. The following quote was issued regarding Teacher Retirements:
“March 4, 2011“In a few years our pension costs will consume one-in-every-four dollars in Maine General Fund revenue. Taxpayers do not have any more to give and reforms are needed to keep the checks coming for the retired teachers who are counting on a state pension. I know some teachers and retirees are struggling, but we need honest and shared solutions to solve our pension problem. We must also stay focused on the value of our teachers and improving education in Maine. We know the best teachers get better results. We are working on proposals to identify these educators and increase their pay.”- Paul LePage Governor”
It appears the future of Maine Education isn’t the only issue on the block.
