It’s not often we get to have every administrator, teacher, and staff member in one place, but August 26th was one of those special days. The Sanford School Department brought together staff from every school, program, and the district’s central office at the Sanford Performing Arts Center to connect with colleagues, gather resources from local vendors, and set the stage for a successful 2026-2027 school year.
The celebration opened with Vox Sparta, Sanford High School’s first and only tenor/bass choir. Formed in the spring of 2025 and led by SHS Choral Director Ryan Geary, the self-guided ensemble has earned multiple “Superior” ratings at the Maine ACDA Adjudicated High School Choral Festival. The group, composed of Evan Lynch, Jack Van Gieson, Jordyn Martin, Keaghan Martin, Logan Hamblin, and Ryan William Kane, serenaded staff with their rendition of “Sh-Boom” at the district's welcoming ceremony.
Following their performance, School Committee Chair Amy Sevigny addressed the distinct needs and learning styles of each Sanford student, emphasizing that “every student is different—and every student deserves the opportunity to succeed and to be seen.” As the district looks ahead to the new school year, she highlighted four values to guide educators and staff: teamwork, accountability, inclusion, and kindness. “It takes a team,” Ms. Sevigny stated.
With Ms. Sevigny’s message of teamwork setting the stage, Superintendent Nelson addressed staff and reflected on the guiding mission of the Sanford School Department and the legacy the district has built over the years. As he welcomed new educators and thanked Sanford Schools’ supporters and community members, Superintendent Nelson introduced this year’s theme: “We are better together.” He emphasized that every student matters, and that every employee of the Sanford School Department plays an important role in their lives.
“We raise the curtain for 175 days,” Superintendent Nelson concluded. But while the time we have with the students may be limited, the impact on their lives never is.
As we head into the 2026-2027 school year, we look forward to teaching, guiding, and investing in the next generation as they make their way through a rapidly changing world. And as Superintendent Nelson reminded us, we cannot do that work alone. We need one another—educators, staff, students, families, and community members—to embody that vision as we strive to create the kind of school district and community where every student can thrive.
Because all of us, Sanford, are better together.