How Maine is Redefining Success in Schools

In Maine, there's a big push to rethink how success in schools is measured. It's not just about test scores anymore. The state's education department has put out a report called "Measure What Matters. " This report says that things like well-being, resilience, and creativity are just as important as grades. Think about it like this: imagine you're hiking and you see a mark on a tree. That mark helps you know where to go, but it doesn't tell you the whole story of the trail. In the same way, a test score is just one small part of a student's journey. The report points out that learning is about more than just academics. It's about the moments that spark a passion or build confidence. For example, one teacher shared how encouraging a student to sing in front of the class changed their life. That kind of growth can't be captured by a test.In Maine's classrooms, students are doing all sorts of things that tests can't measure. They're building things, selling handmade bookmarks, and even overcoming anxiety with the help of their teachers. These are the real signs of growth and success. The goal isn't to do away with tests completely. They can still be useful for spotting where students need help. But relying on them too much can miss the bigger picture. The "Measure What Matters" framework is all about balancing different ways to see how students are really doing. So, what does this mean for the future of education in Maine? It means focusing on the things that truly matter: the sparks of inspiration, the growth, the resilience, and the joy of learning. Because at the end of the day, that's what will prepare students for the challenges ahead.