Maine Superintendents Name Cari Medd Leader of Year

The Maine School Superintendent's Association recognized the MSAD 52 administrator for her long career and work on student success.

Updated on Oct. 28, 2026 in Administration

Gouache-painted editorial illustration of a classic wooden school chair and antique brass bell in a sunlit classroom, symbolizing educational leadership. — The Maine School Superintendent's Association has named MSAD 52 administrator Cari Medd as its 2027 Superintendent of the Year for her career achievements. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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The Maine School Superintendent's Association has named Cari Medd the 2027 Superintendent of the Year. The honor acknowledges her extensive leadership in student achievement and well-being.

Why it matters

The award highlights Medd's commitment to inclusive education and behavioral support, which have served as pillars for her work in school administration. Her efforts reflect a broader state-level focus on improving student outcomes through collaborative teaching models.

Cari Medd has dedicated 33 years to education and served as principal of Poland Regional High School for 16 years. District records show a 45% decrease in suspensions following the implementation of Positive Behavior Interventions and Support.

The players

Cari Medd

Cari Medd is the superintendent of Maine School Administrative District 52 and a veteran educator with over three decades of experience.

Maine School Superintendent's Association

The Maine School Superintendent's Association is a professional organization that supports educational leaders across the state.

The details

Medd, who currently leads Maine School Administrative District 52, was recognized at the association's annual meeting in Augusta. Her administration has facilitated new partnerships with the University of Maine System to support students with disabilities.

Cari Medd began her teaching career at Leavitt Area High School during the 1992-1993 school year.
Medd served as the principal of Poland Regional High School starting in 1999.
She returned to Maine School Administrative District 52 to serve as superintendent in 2022.
The Maine School Superintendent's Association named Medd the 2027 Superintendent of the Year in October 2026.

Culture Shift

This recognition aligns with a broader shift toward data-driven, inclusive educational environments across Maine. The adoption of Positive Behavior Interventions and Support mirrors national trends prioritizing student retention and emotional health over traditional disciplinary methods.

Families within Maine School Administrative District 52 may see continued expansion of co-teaching and inclusion programs for students with disabilities. These administrative changes are designed to foster mainstream classroom participation and reduce exclusionary disciplinary actions.

The takeaway

Effective school leadership often relies on long-term investment in specific behavioral training and community partnerships. Educators and administrators can implement similar inclusion frameworks to boost student engagement and reduce suspension rates.