UMF in the News: 2027 Maine Teacher of the Year finalists includes UMF alumna Gina Welch ‘00

Four Maine educators have been announced as state finalists for 2027 Maine Teacher of the Year by the Maine Dept. of Education including Gina Welch, a Pre-K Teacher at Crescent Park Elementary School and 2000 UMF graduate; Abby McCoy, a Chemistry and Forensic Science Teacher at Lewiston High School; Adrianne Shetenhelm, an English and Alternative Education Teacher at Windham High School;  and Gretchen Livingston, a Spanish Teacher at Cony Middle and High School.

Welch earned her Bachelor’s degree from UMF in Early Childhood Education in 2000 and has spent over 25 years nurturing children into becoming the very best versions of themselves.

She earned her Master’s in Educational Studies at the University of New Hampshire and believes a public school is the central hub of any community because it unites families, educators and community partners—a place where everyone can find a connection, works together and belongs.

“Maine teachers are going above and beyond every day. They challenge and inspire their students with creative learning experiences, build relationships and partnerships with the families and communities they serve, and create opportunities for all students to excel,” said Maine Education Commissioner Pender Makin. “We are thrilled to celebrate the transformative impact teachers have on students.