Sanford Middle School hosted its 8th Grade Awards Ceremony on Monday, June 15, honoring students who will be moving on to high school in the fall. The celebration, held in the school cafeteria the day before the last day of school, brought students, staff, and families together to recognize an incredible class of young Spartans.
Principal Joe Mastraccio presented the awards across a wide range of categories honoring academic achievement, personal growth, and community spirit. Academic standouts earning Honors and High Honors for three consecutive quarters included students like Hannalise Medico, Andrea Szymbor, Dario Edwards, and Aubrey Fifield. Others were celebrated for their character and resilience, receiving awards such as the Be the Change Award, the Rising Spartan Award for perseverance, and the Positive Growth Award for meaningful improvement in behavior and maturity. Students like Kiana Kinsey, Eli Hall, and Vivian Olivo were among those recognized for their consistent involvement and embodiment of the school's core values.
The ceremony also featured special distinctions including the Elks Award, the Secretary of State Award, and the Athletic/Club Involvement Medallion, rounding out a celebration that truly honored the whole student. Perfect and Outstanding Attendance awards gave well-deserved recognition to students who showed up and gave their best, day after day.
The ceremony closed with a slideshow put together by Vickie Thomas and Adam Bellefueille that capped off the morning on a memorable note.
The event was made possible by the hard work of many dedicated staff members. Audree organized and printed individual award certificates, while Shannon Tracy organized and created the certificates of completion. Ms. Pendleton, Mr. Edgar, and Ms. Thomas each delivered speeches, and the school's counselors, social workers, and SAT team played a key role in organizing and distributing awards. Kayla and Tracy kept the office running smoothly amid the post-ceremony hustle, and 8th grade staff and supporters showed up in force — not just for the ceremony, but throughout the year.
For a complete list of award winners, click here.