The Southern Maine Partnership (SMP) is a collaborative network connecting Prek-12 school districts with the Educational Leadership Program at the University of Southern Maine. Through various programs and offerings.
Promotes Education: Supports equitable, academically rigorous, and personalized public education for students.
Connects Practice and Theory: Acts as a bridge between university faculty and local school practitioners, ensuring leadership training responds to real world needs.
Provides Professional Growth: Collaborates with USM’s Professional Development Center to offer workshops, learning conferences, and outreach for educators.
Dine & Discuss is back!
Join us for dinner and professional learning as highly-regarded child psychologist Dr. Rebekah Bickford explores function-based approaches to individual student behavior and broader organizational systems.
Each SMP member school is eligible for up to 10 complimentary registrations, subject to verification.
- Date: December 10, 2026
- Time: 4:30-6:30 p.m.
- Location: McGoldrick Center for Career and Student Success, 35 Bedford Street, Portland, ME
- Cost: $45/participant
SMP 2026-2027 Events bring high-caliber professional development to Maine educators
We are excited to announce four Dine & Discuss events this year, along with our annual Spring Learning Conference and a new, exciting opportunity for superintendents of schools. Click on the links below to register for each event!
December 10, 2026 – Dine & Discuss featuring Dr. Rebekah Bickford. “From Avoidance to Engagement: Addressing Avoidance and Building Resilience in Classrooms and Schools.”
Register Here
January 27, 2027 – Dine & Discuss featuring various Maine schools. “Intentional Use of Instructional Technology and A.I.”
Register Here
March 3, 2027 – Dine & Discuss featuring Maine’s new Commissioner of Education. “Educational Policy and Legislation in 2027 and Beyond.”
Register Here
May 14, 2027 – Spring Learning Conference featuring Jack Breckemeyer. “Deliberately Optimistic & Innovative Instruction.”
Register Here
July 13–14, 2027 – Civic Leadership in the Superintendency
Register Here
