Maine Indian Education Superintendent recognized for exceptional leadership and dedication to educational excellence
CALAIS, Maine – August 1, 2025 – Dr. Reza Namin, Superintendent of Maine Indian Education, has been nominated for the prestigious 2026 Maine Superintendent of the Year award by the Maine School Superintendents Association (MSSA). This significant honor recognizes his outstanding leadership, dedication, and the profound impact he has made on public education in Maine.
Dr. Namin currently leads the Passamaquoddy, Penobscot, and Wabanaki Schools as Superintendent of Maine Indian Education, where he works with three separate School Committees and one Joint School Committee while collaborating with the Federal Bureau of Indian Affairs and the State of Maine. His role requires managing complex budgets across multiple schools while fostering cultural competency and inclusive practices in diverse educational communities.
Distinguished Career in Educational Leadership
With over 20 years of experience as a superintendent, chief academic officer, and educational leader, Dr. Namin has served in leadership roles across multiple states, including Maine and Massachusetts.
Academic Excellence and Recognition
Dr. Namin holds impressive academic credentials, including a Ph.D. in Math and Science Education with a focus on Curriculum and Technology from, and completed Post-Doctoral Studies in Educational Leadership at Harvard University Graduate School of Education, Certificate of Advanced Studies in 3D Geometric Modeling from Brown University, Certificate of Advanced Graduate Studies in Leadership and Educational Administration, Masters and Bachelors in Mathematics and Chemistry from the Worcester State University. He was named the 2019 Harvard University Graduate School of Education Fellow.
National Recognition and Athletic Achievement
Dr. Namin's exceptional contributions to education have earned him national recognition as a member of the National Superintendents Association Hall of Fame and as a finalist for National Superintendent of the Year. He has been nominated for the Presidential Award for Excellence in Teaching Mathematics, Science, and Technology, and was a Massachusetts Teacher of the Year nominee.
Beyond his educational accomplishments, Dr. Namin maintains a unique distinction as both an inductee to the Worcester State College Athletic Hall of Fame and recipient of the Outstanding Achievements in the Field of Education Alumni Award. A former professional soccer player who was drafted by Major League Soccer and played for Boston, he later served as a coach and was named New England Coach of the Year in NCAA Division I while coaching at Holy Cross College.
Commitment to Educational Innovation
Throughout his career, Dr. Namin has been recognized for implementing innovative educational initiatives while maintaining strong community relationships. During his tenure in Massachusetts, he was unanimously named by the Massachusetts Board of Education to serve as Co-Chair of the Massachusetts Mathematics and Science Advisory Council for three years and served on the State Science, Technology & Engineering Advisory Council.
Next Steps in the Selection Process
Eileen King, MSSA Executive Director, praised the nomination, stating that it represents "a significant honor and a testament to your leadership, dedication, and the respect you've earned from your Board and colleagues."