What an incredible week for our school community! We are thrilled to share that the Ellsworth School Department and Hancock County Technical Center (HCTC) had a standout showing at this year’s Maine Association of Career and Technical Education (MACTE) Fall Conference, bringing home four major statewide awards!
Whether it is in the classroom, out in the community, or leading state-level policy, these dedicated educators show up for our students every single day. Here is a look at the award winners who made us so proud:
Bill Tracy – MACTE Administrator of the Year
As Director of HCTC and President of MACTE, Bill has spent the last three years creating incredible opportunities for students. From working with six sending high schools to ensure CTE students earn direct high school academic credits, to expanding pathways for our kids - including the birth Firefighting I and Cooperative Education courses this year - Bill’s vision is all about making sure students never have to choose between college prep and career prep.
Rich Jamison – MACTE New Teacher of the Year
Hired just a day before the school year started four years ago, Rich jumped into HCTC’s Automotive Technology program with both feet and hasn’t looked back! Rich earned the program's first ASE accreditation, brought six industry training programs into the shop, and partnered with local businesses like Darling’s and Stanley Subaru to create automotive pre-apprenticeships for his students.
Hope High – Counseling & Career Development Professional Award
If you have ever needed help navigating college courses, high school schedules, or career paths, you know Hope is always there. As HCTC’s Student Services Coordinator, Hope leads the Bridge Academy program, organizes monthly counselor roundtables across the county, and works through the MELMAC grant to help students in grades 6–12 discover exciting career pathways.
Michelle Cote – Carl Perkins Community Service Award
Mrs. Cote doesn’t just teach healthcare. In her Health Occupations program, community service and giving back is woven right into the curriculum. Her students spend time engaging directly with local senior citizens, running blood drives and food drives, and raising mental health awareness through the Yellow Tulip Project.
We couldn't be prouder of this amazing group of leaders, instructors, and advocates. Please join us in giving them a massive congratulations when you see them around HCTC!
For ESD photos from the award ceremony -- click here!