Pender Makin

Pender Makin has extensive experience in the field of education, currently serving as the Commissioner of Education for the State of Maine since January 2019. In addition, Pender is a Co-Founder of the Collaborative for Perpetual Innovation, an organization focused on innovative solutions for at-risk students, established in January 2015. Prior to these roles, Pender served as the Assistant Superintendent of Schools for the Brunswick School Department from July 2015 to January 2019, and as Director/Principal at The REAL School with RSU #14 from August 2003 to June 2015, where responsibilities included overseeing a program for at-risk students in grades 7-12. Earlier career experiences include teaching at both Fred C. Wescott Junior High School and Waterville Junior High School. Pender Makin holds a Master’s degree in Educational Leadership from the University of Southern Maine and has an educational background from the University of Maine.