Every year, when we solicit nominations for Mainers To Be Thankful For, we try to emphasize that we’re looking for people who don’t just do good work in their communities but also exceed expectations. By focusing on school workers this year, that standard wasn’t so difficult to meet.
Going above and beyond is practically part of the job description for anyone in education. Still, this year’s nominees have emerged in their various critical roles as truly special individuals, ones who have made an impact on students, parents and colleagues. And they’ve done it in an increasingly challenging environment for educators — with federal funding cuts, voters rejecting school budgets, bus driver shortages and the oppressive threat of gun violence.
That’s why this year we wanted to give extra recognition to school workers in our annual Thanksgiving feature honoring 10 people in our communities who are making a difference. Here are our 2025 Mainers To Be Thankful For.
Topsham custodian Michael Langley takes the classroom outside
Known at Woodside Elementary as ‘Mr. Mike,’ he teaches kids how to make maple syrup, press cider, ice fish and more.
Shelley Kane makes sure York County students’ basic needs are met first
The director of community outreach and development for Biddeford, Saco and Dayton schools connects struggling families with the help they need.
From behind the scenes, Jackie Roy-Lamiette has kept Auburn school running
The administrative assistant at Margaret Murphy Centers for Children, whose daughter attended the school for children with developmental disabilities and autism, connects with parents in a way that staff can’t.
Skowhegan guidance counselor Dan Riley helps students ‘dream big’
His goal is to get all students thinking about life after graduation without restriction.
Athens ed tech Caroline Viles is keeping kids fed
Inspired to create a food cupboard 13 years ago at the tiny Athens Community School, she’s been helping to feed families here ever since.
Tori Hildreth connects Old Town students with careers and clothes
The Jobs for Maine Graduates instructor runs a free thrift store at the high school and is working to make Wabanaki studies more accessible.
Portland teacher Amy Wu sees the magic in kindergarteners
In her 28th year teaching the youngest students, she finds joy in the transformation to literacy.
Maranacook coach Matt Lajoie can make running fun for anyone
With a middle school cross-country team nearly 50 strong, he helps Readfield-area students define their own success.
Poland special ed teacher Kirsten Johansen makes students feel understood
She’s known throughout the high school as someone who will ‘always listen.’
Through a love of French, Mary Lord ushers Brunswick students into a new world
Decades after falling for the language as a student at the same junior high school, she continues to inspire new generations.
With Support From
Maine State Credit Union is dedicated to supporting the people, traditions, and communities that keep our state strong. Learn more at mainestatecu.org.
We invite you to add your comments. We encourage a thoughtful exchange of ideas and information on this website. By joining the conversation, you are agreeing to our commenting policy and terms of use. More information is found on our FAQs. You can modify your screen name here.
Comments are managed by our staff during regular business hours Monday through Friday as well as limited hours on Saturday and Sunday. Comments held for moderation outside of those hours may take longer to approve.
Join the Conversation
Please sign into your CentralMaine.com account to participate in conversations below. If you do not have an account, you can register or subscribe. Questions? Please see our FAQs.