Diploma Pathways
Academic standards provide a set of clear expectations as to what students should know, understand and be able to explain as they progress through each K-12 grade level.
Maine Learning Results
Since 1997, the Maine Learning Results (MLR) have established statewide expectations for what students should know and be able to do across eight content areas. The standards provide a common foundation for student learning while allowing local school administrative units to determine the curriculum, instructional materials, and teaching approaches that best meet the needs of their students.
The Maine Learning Results have undergone periodic review and revision to reflect developments in research, instructional practice, and the knowledge and skills students need for success in college, careers, and civic life. The most recent comprehensive review and revision cycle took place between 2018 and 2020.
In 2025, the Maine Legislature established the Maine Learning Results Task Force to undertake a broader examination of the state's standards and the processes used to review and revise them. The Task Force is currently considering how the Maine Learning Results can continue to support meaningful, relevant, and equitable learning opportunities for all Maine students, with recommendations expected in 2027. The regular standards review cycle has been paused while this work is underway.
Throughout this process, the Maine Learning Results continue to serve as the foundation for statewide learning expectations, while decisions about curriculum and instruction remain the responsibility of local school administrative units.
Guiding Principles of the Maine Learning Results
- The following Guiding Principles were developed in response to Public Law 669, Section 9 Development of standards based tools.
- Understanding the Guiding Principles, a resource developed by the Maine DOE, Educational Policy Improvement Center.