University of Southern Maine alumna Heather Perry has been named one of four national finalists for the AASA National Superintendent of the Year Award, which recognizes outstanding leadership, professionalism, communication and community engagement in public education throughout the United States. The honor places Perry among a small group of superintendents nationwide whose work is shaping the future of public education through collaboration, innovation and service.
Perry serves as superintendent of the Gorham School District, where she has spent the past decade leading efforts to expand student success and strengthen post-secondary pathways. She is the first Maine superintendent to be named a national finalist since the program began in 1988. The winner will be announced at the AASA National Conference on Education in February 2026.
“I am deeply honored to be named a finalist for National Superintendent of the Year,” Perry told Maine’s Department of Education. “This recognition reflects the extraordinary work of our students, staff, families, and community in Gorham. Public education is truly a team effort, and I am proud to serve alongside educators and leaders who are so deeply committed to creating meaningful opportunities for every child.”
Perry’s national recognition builds on her recent selection as Maine’s 2026 Superintendent of the Year, an honor that acknowledged her commitment to expanding student aspirations and addressing workforce challenges in schools across the state. During her tenure in Gorham, Perry has focused on connecting education to real-world opportunities, ensuring students are prepared for life after graduation while supporting educators in a rapidly changing landscape.
One of Perry’s most impactful initiatives was leading an apprenticeship program in 2022 to address educator workforce shortages. The program created new entry points into the profession by combining classroom learning with hands-on experience in schools. What began as a district effort has expanded to dozens of school districts across Maine, offering a scalable model for addressing staffing challenges and investing in the next generation of educators.
Perry began her career in education as a teacher and principal in the Machias area, experiences that continue to influence her leadership approach. Her work is grounded in community connection, collaboration, and understanding the diverse needs of Maine’s students and families. Those early roles informed her belief that strong schools are built through partnerships and shared responsibility.
In 2020, Perry earned her Ph.D. in public policy from the University of Southern Maine. While at USM, she built a strong base in public service and big-picture thinking, which still guide her as a superintendent. Her education and years of experience in Maine schools have shaped a leadership style that combines policy knowledge with practical, community-focused decisions.
Click here to read the original article from October 2025.