me arts ed

2024 Maine Teacher of the Year

At a surprise school assembly this morning, (11 October), second and third grade teacher at East End Community School and drama director at Deering High School Joshua Chard was named the 2024 Maine Teacher of the Year. Joshua represents all teachers in the state of Maine and his quote below articulates what he firmly understands about our profession. Starting today and into the future he’ll have multiple opportunities to communicate this belief. As the 2024 Maine Teacher of the Year, Chard will spend his year of service advocating for students and teachers and speaking to the importance of education in preparing Maine students for the future. He will also represent Maine in the National Teacher of the Year program.

“Teachers across our state do amazing things in their classrooms every day”.

Last spring Joshua Chard was selected as the 2023 Cumberland County Teacher of the Year. His approach to designing and implementing curriculum for young learners always starts through a culturally responsive lens. Joyful relationships are at the heart of everything Chard does in his classroom and he is inspired every day by the honor of lifting up and celebrating his diverse learners.

Chard holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Elementary Education with a concentration in Theater from the University of Southern Maine, a Master of Science degree in Education with a K-6 Literacy focus from the University of New England, and a Certificate in K-6 Standards Based Mathematics from The American College of Education. He is also certified as a K-12 teacher of English to speakers of other languages. During his 31-year career, he has been an educational technician, has taught fourth and fifth grade, and has been an instructional coach with a focus on mathematics. Chard is proud to teach in two of the most culturally diverse schools north of Boston, having passionately dedicated his entire career to working in high-needs, urban schools, and he is excited to have a platform to share the amazing work that is happening there. Outside of school, Chard can be found participating in local theater as an actor and director and exploring Maine’s beaches and lighthouses with his husband and their grandsons.

Congratulating Joshua is also recognizing all teachers who have committed their careers to education.