School Committee Names Former Philadelphia Teacher As New Superintendent

A former grade school teacher from Philadelphia has been named as the Bangor School Department's next Superintendent of Schools.

Read More: Bangor School Committee Set To Vote On New Superintendent

The Bangor School Committee voted that Dr. Marie Robinson will replace outgoing Superintendent James Tager, who retires at the end of June.

Ray Phinney, Community Outreach and Safety Director for the Bangor School Department says Dr. Robinson moved to Maine in 2016 and took a position as Principal of the Katahidin schools, RSU 89, which she held while also getting her PhD. in Education just a few years later. Under Dr. Robinson's leadership, her schools have made some remarkable improvements.

"During her tenure at Katahdin Schools she has supported innovative efforts to enhance the public school experience by expanding pathways for high school students, integrating elementary curriculum, and utilizing the outdoors as a strategy to deepen learning and support mental health...Katahdin schools has been recognized the past three years by U.S. News & World Report. Achieving a 100% graduation rate in three of the last six years and increasing attendance by 5% just last year, Katahdin Middle High School was named #3 in the state of Maine in 2024."

Phinney says Dr. Robins on is excited to get to work for Bangor. Tager's last day is June 30th. Dr. Robinson will start as Superintendent on July 1st.

"I am honored to have been selected as the next Superintendent of the Bangor School Department," said Dr. Robinson. "Bangor is known for its exceptional schools, talented educators, and engaged community. I look forward to collaborating with the School Committee, administrators, teachers, staff, students, and families to continue advancing educational outcomes and supporting the growth and development of every child."

Members of the School Committee thanked outgoing Superintendent, James Tager, for "steadfast leadership and unwavering dedication to the students and families of Bangor."