Megan Barnes

Megan Barnes serves as the Chief Program Officer at the Aroostook County Action Program (ACAP), providing executive leadership and oversight for Early Care and Education and Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) services across the agency. In this role, she oversees comprehensive early childhood programming throughout Aroostook, Hancock, and Washington Counties, ensuring that children and families in Maine's rural communities have access to high-quality education, health, nutrition, and family support services. With more than 16 years of experience in early childhood education, Megan has dedicated her career to improving outcomes for young children and strengthening opportunities for families. Since joining ACAP in 2009, she has served in a variety of leadership roles, including Program Manager and Coordinator for Disabilities and Education Services. Her extensive background in early childhood special education and disability services has made her a recognized leader in advancing inclusive practices, supporting children with developmental delays and disabilities, and ensuring equitable access to high-quality educational experiences. She is a certified teacher of children with disabilities and holds a Master’s Degree in Business Leadership. Throughout her career, Megan has been a strong advocate for early intervention and systems that support the unique needs of young children with disabilities and their families. Her leadership extends beyond ACAP through statewide initiatives focused on strengthening Maine’s early childhood infrastructure. She currently serves as Vice Chair of the Maine Head Start Directors Association, helping to guide policy discussions and advocacy efforts that impact Head Start and Early Head Start programs across the state. She also serves on Maine’s Pre-K Advisory Committee and participates in the State Work Group for the Provision of FAPE (Free Appropriate Public Education), collaborating with educators, policymakers, and public school districts to improve services and outcomes for children with disabilities throughout Maine. A respected voice in the field of early childhood disabilities, Megan is known for her ability to build partnerships among Head Start programs, public schools, health providers, and community organizations. Her expertise in collaboration and systems-building has strengthened relationships across rural communities and expanded opportunities for children and families to access coordinated services. Through these partnerships, she works to ensure that all children, regardless of ability or geography, have the support they need to thrive and succeed. Megan is passionate about developing innovative, family-centered approaches that strengthen communities, promote educational equity, and improve outcomes for children. Her leadership reflects a deep commitment to collaboration, inclusion, and creating opportunities that help children and families reach their full potential. Megan resides in Fort Fairfield, Maine, with her husband, Ron.