VAN BUREN, Maine — The Maine Department of Education last Friday named Van Buren educator Laurie Spooner as the 2025 Aroostook Teacher of the Year.
Spooner teaches robotics, math, biology, human anatomy and chemistry at Van Buren District School, located in MSAD 24/RSU 88. The district covers Van Buren, Cyr Plantation and Hamlin.
More than 550 teachers across the state were nominated this year by members of their school communities, according to the education department. The final 16, one representing each county, were selected by a panel of teachers, principals and business owners.
MSAD 24 Superintendent Karen DuBois said the district is incredibly proud of Spooner for achieving this distinction.
“Those who know Laurie can attest to how truly deserving she is of this honor,” DuBois said. “Her unwavering commitment to her students, colleagues, the district, and the teaching profession consistently exceeds expectations.”
Spooner’s passion for lifelong learning and her ongoing professional growth make her a role model for other educators, DuBois said.
The 16 county teachers selected will act as ambassadors for their schools and students, according to a press release from the Maine Department of Education. Last year, for example, the winners established a survey to assess mentorship needs for Maine teachers.
Maine Governor Janet Mills announced the winners last Wednesday.
“As the daughter of a longtime public school teacher, and as someone who raised five children who attended public schools in Maine, I am deeply grateful to the educators throughout our state who make a meaningful, engaging experience,” Mills said in a statement. “These 16 teachers represent every county from Aroostook to York and are paving the way for a well-educated, healthy and productive citizenry in the state of Maine.”
The county teachers will participate in the Maine State Teacher of the Year selection process, according to the Maine DOE. The Maine Teacher of the Year will be announced this fall.
