Last Thursday, Sanford Middle School teachers and administrators gathered to prepare for the year ahead. What began as an opening day for staff soon became a celebration of the school’s guiding values.
Staff arrived for coffee and breakfast provided by the SMS Parent Teacher Association before heading outside to celebrate the people who make Sanford Middle School the caring community it is. There, SMS Principal Joe Mastraccio led everyone in the raising of the Honor Flag, a ceremony signifying unity, inclusion, and community as it honors students and staff who exemplify what it means to be a Spartan.
The idea of the Honor Flag was brought forth by SMS Assistant Principal Lindsay Pendleton, who shared her intent behind the monthly tradition. “I believe recognition has the power to shape school culture. The Honor Flag gives us a way to recognize character, kindness, leadership, perseverance, and going above and beyond - especially the actions that might otherwise go unnoticed.”
She hopes that by celebrating these positive examples, others will be inspired to “create a school culture where being a good person, helping others, and making positive choices are valued and celebrated.”
Those same values were put into practice during Thursday’s opening ceremony, as staff honored the SMS Gardening team: Diana Allen, Keisha Anderson, Laura Kirton, Angie Labbe, Rebecca McCann, Bree Kumka, and Jen Pinette.
Ms. Pendleton praised the group for the time and care they have devoted to serving the community. "These Spartans went above and beyond by using their own time to make sure our school entrances, gardens, and signs looked immaculate and pristine for Open House and the start of the school year.” She continued, “Their work may happen behind the scenes, but the impact is seen by everyone who walks through our doors.”
As Sanford Middle School continues to recognize individuals who exemplify Spartan values each month, the Honor Flag serves as a reflection of the Sanford School Department’s theme for the year: “We are better together.” In shining a warm light on both the seen and unseen contributions that strengthen the Sanford community, SMS reminds its students that every act of character and service has value - and that everyone deserves to be celebrated.