Sanford High School recently held its annual Jobs for Maine's Graduates (JMG) Closing Ceremony on Tuesday, May 20th, celebrating student achievements in the program. The event was led by student co-presidents Alissa Letourneau and Emily Letourneau, beginning with a 2024-2025 JMG video presentation followed by the Pledge of Allegiance by student Rylee LaPierre.
Students Sophia DeVoe and Camille Decato recognized program volunteers, while Amber Campbell acknowledged Principal Tracy Gibson’s support. English teacher Mrs. Roy delivered a speech after being introduced by student Natalie Green. Roy emphasized how JMG equips students with essential life skills beyond the classroom, teaching them about finances, credit cards, loans, and job skills while building meaningful connections.
"Consider your people, the last time you connected with them," Mrs. Roy advised, sharing a valuable teaching practice of taking inventory of relationships and following up with those who need connection most.
SHS senior Kimberly Blanchard presented information on the Maine Career Exploration Model, noting an additional $10,000 was distributed to Sanford students this year, totaling $98,000. The program now includes a framework helping students earn credentials in job readiness, financial literacy, and leadership development.
Senior Skyla Clarke shared how JMG transformed her future plans: "I continue working on going through steps of what it takes to enlist in the Air Force, and I am proud to say I have decided to do just that." She encouraged underclassmen to "listen to every adult who wants to share their career path."
Senior Emily Letourneau reflected on Ms. Gifford's impact: "Miss Gifford has shaped me to be the person I am today. A mentor is someone who knows what you're capable of, and when you start to slip away from that, they're nearby to pick you back up and keep you on track."
Senior Alissa Letourneau described her transformation from a freshman "sitting in the back, AirPods in, head down, trying to stay invisible" to becoming co-president of JMG.
Through JMG, she discovered her leadership potential and competed at SkillsUSA winning a gold medal. "This fall, I'll be heading to the University of Southern Maine to study communications to become a NASCAR public relations specialist," she shared, adding, "This is coming from the girl who, just a few years ago, didn't want to leave home or even think about going to college."
JMG Specialist Ms. Gifford presented senior spotlights highlighting each graduate's journey and future plans in fields ranging from early childhood education to fire science. The ceremony concluded with remarks from Izzy Mitchell, celebrating the strong community developed through JMG and its lasting impact on students' futures.