Sanford School Department

Dear Families, We're reaching out today because we know that many families in our community may have questions about how the recent federal government shutdown could affect household resources. Please know that our school is here to support you, and we want to make sure you have the most current information and know where to turn for help if you need it. If you or your family are worried about food during the government shutdown, help is available. School Meals will Remain Available for All Students All students can still get free breakfast and lunch at school every day. Find Local Food Assistance If your family needs food support, call 211, or visit the Good Shepherd Food Bank’s Food Pantry Locator to find help near you. Visit www.gsfb.org/get-help/food-map or scan the QR code. General Assistance Families can apply for General Assistance, which can help meet basic needs including food, housing, utilities, medical costs and more. Visit www.maine.gov/dhhs/ofi/programs-services/general-assistance. Continue to Apply or Renew SNAP Benefits You can still apply for or renew SNAP during the shutdown. If you qualify, doing this now will help make sure your benefits are ready as soon as funding resumes. Apply or renew at: www.mymaineconnection.gov. For Federal Employees: If you or someone in your household is a federal employee impact by the shutdown, additional resources and support information are available at the following link: https://tinyurl.com/bdzdsu2p We understand this news may be stressful, and we are here to support our students and families however we can. Sanford Schools will continue to monitor the situation and share updates as more information becomes available. Please don’t hesitate to reach out to your school’s school counselor, outreach staff or administrative office if you need help connecting to local resources.

Resources During the Government Shutdown

October 30, 2025

Dear Families, We're reaching out because we know that many families in our community may have questions about how the recent federal government shutdown could affect household ...

Senior Hannah Chambers, a student in Sanford Regional Technical Center's Engineering and Architecture program, is gaining hands-on experience in the construction industry through her internship at Eldredge Lumber Company—and confirming her decision to enter the workforce immediately after graduation. When Hannah attended SRTC's Career and College Fair last fall, her teacher Mr. Clark guided her to the Eldredge Lumber table. Lindsey Eldredge remembers that first meeting clearly: "She made incredible eye contact. She was dressed professionally, and she shook my hand." After receiving an application and Lindsey's business card, Hannah demonstrated remarkable persistence. "She emailed me every single month," Eldredge said. "She's extraordinary." That determination led to her landing an internship at the company's contractor desk. "I wanted to get a chance to know what my future job would be like, and also to get more experience under my belt," Chambers said. "I plan on not going to college—I'd rather go straight into the work field, and this opportunity helps me understand what my life will look like when I graduate." Three to four days each week, Hannah immerses herself in the building materials business. She's learned to navigate Eldredge Lumber’s extensive inventory, memorize product sizes and account names, and help contractors place orders efficiently. "It's always a learning experience, also a memory game," she shares. "There are many questions about what sizes we stock and where certain things are throughout the store." Her background has proven valuable. "She's incredible with customers," Eldredge said. "She has a really great, gregarious personality, and her dad is a builder, so she knows our clientele and understands the language." Through the internship, Hannah has developed a deeper understanding of lumber dimensions, wood species, and material applications. "I like learning things with the customers," she said. "Going through orders and learning why they ordered this and what they are using the specific material for." The experience has solidified her career path. Rather than pursuing a college degree to become an architect, she's set her sights on becoming a draftsman. "This internship has helped me know that even if I am not going to college, I can still make it, doing what I love," she said. Her immediate goal? "I hope after this year is over I can get hired here at Eldredge when my internship is over." For Eldredge, students like Hannah represent valuable future employees. "The SRTC students are not entry-level employees," she explains. "They already have the knowledge. It's an easy transition to get these kids from SRTC into the workforce." Eldredge Lumber offers comprehensive benefits and long-term career potential. "If college isn't the way these kids want to go, I can offer them a career, not just a job," Lindsey says. Hannah's internship is one of several Extended Learning Opportunities coordinated by Sally MacDougal, offering students pathways to explore career options and build industry connections—whether they're headed to college or directly into the workforce.

SRTC Student Builds Career Foundation at Eldredge Lumber Through Internship

November 6, 2025

Senior Hannah Chambers, a student in Sanford Regional Technical Center's Engineering and Architecture program, is gaining hands-on experience in the construction industry through ...

Sanford Middle School Presents 'Disney's Dare to Dream JR.' This Weekend

November 6, 2025

Disney’s Dare to Dream JR. is performing at Sanford Middle School on Friday at 6:30 PM and Saturday at 1:30 PM. This fun and lighthearted musical revue, designed for middle sch...

This is part of a series highlighting the career and technical education programs offered at Sanford Regional Technical Center. Behind professional cameras and editing software, students in Sanford Regional Technical Center's Video Production program transform creative ideas into award-winning digital media—one frame at a time. Instructor James Harmon, with over twenty years of independent film production experience, brings real-world expertise directly into the classroom. Beyond his work as a video contractor, he founded and directed a successful film festival for five years and has taught in Sanford for nearly twenty years. That real-world experience shapes a classroom culture where students feel genuinely connected to their work and each other. "My favorite part of Video Production is that it's the only class I have where I feel really connected to the other students there beyond just sitting in the same room for a while," said Jasper Sweet, a second-year student from Sanford High School. "We make some really cool stuff together, and it wouldn't work if we didn't bring all the creativity and ambition we have to the table." That creative energy is exactly what Harmon values most. "I've learned that they're an endless well of ideas, inspiration, and entertainment," Harmon said. "All I need to do is show them a few things, and they're off to the races, surprising me with their creativity, determination, skills, and talent." Students learn essential roles in television, digital cinema, and audio production, working as individuals and in teams operating professional equipment and using industry-standard software to bring their ideas to life. The program prepares students for professional opportunities through the Maine Association of Broadcasters Video Production Certification. They can earn college credits through Southern Maine Community College. The program's excellence was on full display at this spring's SkillsUSA state conference. Of the twelve SRTC students who participated, six earned medals, creating award-winning TV ads, short films, audio broadcasts, and computer-generated animations. "I'm so proud of my current media students and graduates," Harmon said. "Every student put their best foot forward.” Harmon emphasized the broader lessons students take from the program. "Video production is an engaging, meaningful experience," he explained. "Students get to see—and come to know—how every person on a team is essential, and how impactful their voice can be in a group. The teamwork, the give and take, and the compromises that they make in two years of video production helps prepare these students for all of the interpersonal communication that will be important in their future." SRTC second-year student from Kennebunk High, Winter Nodden, highlighted the program's resources and career potential: "My favorite aspect of the program is the sheer aspect of creative opportunity and money that has been provided to us for this school. While we can't have everything, Mr. Harmon has so much knowledge as a teacher and there are so many different jobs that could come from this class." The program extends beyond the classroom through successful internships with The Sanford Mainers and Seacoast Oldies, giving students real professional experience.

SRTC Program Highlight: Video Production

November 5, 2025

This is part of a series highlighting the career and technical education programs offered at Sanford Regional Technical Center. Behind professional cameras and editing software...

Sanford Spotlight Newsletter

November 5, 2025

Head to the following link to read the latest Sanford Spotlight Newsletter: https://tinyurl.com/39xcue2s

Throughout the school year, local business owners, managers, and industry professionals walk through the doors at Sanford Regional Technical Center—not as customers or inspectors, but as partners in education. They sit down with instructors, tour classrooms, and sometimes even meet with students. They're members of SRTC's program advisory committees, and they're helping shape what students learn. Every program at SRTC has one of these committees. SRTC Director Matt Petermann explains that they "provide us with relevant information about what happens in that particular industry in regards to technology, equipment, and workforce demands. Without these positive connections to our community and industry, our students would leave us and be at a disadvantage. These committees help keep our programs relevant and ensure that our students are receiving the best education they can get." The meetings focus on practical matters. Rich Couture, SRTC's Automotive Technology instructor, describes the committees as building "a strong connection with local business owners, managers, hiring personnel as well as parents of current and former students." These meetings create transparency about what's happening in the classroom—from the specific skills being taught to the operating budgets and the technology students are using. When industries change, the committees help instructors adjust. "It helps us shape our classes for new technologies and equipment being used so that we can stay current with what is trending now in our respective industries," Couture explains. Sometimes these conversations lead to concrete solutions. Brett Staples, Service Manager at Marc Motors in Sanford and a member of the Automotive program's advisory committee, notes that the advisory gives businesses a chance to "find out if any tools or equipment are needed in order to efficiently teach these students." When committees identify gaps, they can help programs secure what they need to keep up with industry standards. The student benefits go beyond updated curriculum. Couture sometimes invites students to attend advisory committee meetings. "On more than one occasion, I've had students leave the meeting with job interviews lined up," he shares. It's a direct pipeline from classroom to career. "Employers are realizing that to build their business with strong employees, SRTC may be a good option to find fresh new and upcoming talent," Couture says. For Staples, the commitment is straightforward: "These students are the future of our business. Without the younger people coming into the trade, there wouldn't be anyone to replace the seasoned techs as they retire."

SRTC's Advisory Committees Connect Students to Careers

November 4, 2025

Throughout the school year, local business owners, managers, and industry professionals walk through the doors at Sanford Regional Technical Center—not as customers or inspectors,...

Sanford Fire Department Visits Margaret Chase Smith Elementary

November 3, 2025

Margaret Chase Smith Kindergarten and Pre-K students received an exciting fire safety education visit from the Sanford Fire Department this week! During the visit, firefighters ta...

Sanford schools came together to celebrate Halloween with a series of community events that brought families, students, and staff together for evenings of fun and festivities. On Thursday, October 23, Sanford Middle School hosted their annual JMG Haunted Woods, offering students a thrilling walk through the shadows. That same evening, Sanford Pride Elementary welcomed families for Trick or Treat in their gymnasium, providing a safe and festive environment for young students to collect candy. Carl J. Lamb Elementary rounded out the night with their Trunk or Treat event, where creatively decorated car trunks delighted students and families alike. On Thursday, October 30, Margaret Chase Smith School hosted their PTA Halloween event, continuing the week of Halloween celebrations across the district. These events showcase the strong sense of community across the Sanford School Department, with staff and volunteers working together to create memorable experiences for our students and their families.

Sanford Schools Celebrate Halloween in Style

October 31, 2025

Sanford schools came together to celebrate Halloween with a series of community events that brought families, students, and staff together for evenings of fun and festivities. O...

SRTC Program highlight: Agricultural Enterprise and Environmental Systems

October 31, 2025

This is part of a series highlighting the career and technical education programs offered at Sanford Regional Technical Center. From planting garden beds in April rain to prepa...

Taylor Swift tribute comes to Sanford Performing Arts Center

October 31, 2025

SANFORD — Swifties, are you ready for it? Grab your cardigan and your concert crew, because the Sanford Performing Arts Center is turning into a Blank Space on Saturday, Nov. 22 ...

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6I9PNpy6gh0

Sanford School Department Hosts Safety Information Night

October 30, 2025

The Sanford School Department hosted a Safety Night in the Performing Arts Center on Tuesday, October 21, offering families and community members an opportunity to learn about the...

Sanford High School’s Spartan Marching Band achieved a Gold Medal at the Maine State Finals this past Saturday at Alumni Stadium! The band earned a perfect score of 5/5 stars in every performance category, showcasing the incredible talent, dedication, and hard work of our student musicians. This success wouldn't have been possible without our amazing community support. A special thanks to: Everyone who attended the performance Those who generously donated food All volunteers who gave their time Don't miss your chance to experience this gold medal-winning performance! The Spartan Marching Band will perform this Thursday at our home football game.

Sanford High School Marching Band Strikes Gold at State Finals

October 27, 2025

Sanford High School's Spartan Marching Band captured a Gold Medal at the Maine State Marching Band Finals this past Saturday, October 25, at Alumni Stadium, earning a perfect scor...

For some students, the path to a diploma can feel overwhelming, filled with barriers that seem impossible to overcome. But at Sanford Community Adult Education, Director Jayne Perkins and her team are working to change that narrative. Through an innovative partnership with Maine Career Exploration and local businesses throughout Sanford, the program is creating real pathways to careers while helping students earn their high school credentials and develop essential life skills. Sanford Community Adult Education is working with Maine Career Exploration to offer paid apprenticeships of up to 75 hours. Students earn money while gaining real-world work experience in fields that match their interests. The process is simple: employers complete paperwork, and within three days, students can begin their apprenticeship. Most students work three to four hours per week, allowing them to balance their education, work, and personal responsibilities. Current and upcoming placements include the Downtown Shagg on Main Street, where a student will learn customer service and business operations, and Goodall Memorial Library, where one interested in library science will gain hands-on experience. The program is also exploring opportunities with local accounting firms and creative businesses for students interested in finance and digital art. Sue Zimmer, SCAE’s Maine College and Career Access Advisor, works to match students with opportunities and find the right fit. "I know my students, talk to them, start calling around and cross my fingers that someone will eventually say yes," she explains. "For some of our students, this is literally their first time making money, or the first time in a long time," Zimmer notes. "This program is forcing them to not only get work experience but also get a bank account, get an ID—it's helping young people learn how to be adults." For a young person who has never had an ID or a bank account, this apprenticeship becomes more than just a job—it's a complete introduction to adulthood, with support every step of the way. "Taking that first step is huge—walking through the door and saying 'I need my diploma’, it takes a lot of courage'" Perkins said. "These students get the opportunity and they get the support. It's the first time they've had such a positive opportunity, and to have someone walk them through it, step-by-step, give them the support. So they get the opportunity, and they get the support. And as you see in graduation, they find success most of the time. It’s life changing for them." The programs are designed to meet students exactly where they are. The program's new website features Google forms where prospective students can share their contact information and interests. Since launching the online contact form, 29 students have reached out for information. One recent conversation illustrates the program's impact. A 35-year-old woman kept saying she was too old to pursue her diploma. When Perkins told her, "You're not too old for this. Let's do this," they worked together to create a plan for her to graduate in June. The woman cried, grateful that someone believed in her. "So many times when I call, people say 'I can't believe that you're calling and that this is really happening,'" Perkins said.

Sanford Adult Education Launches Career Exploration Apprenticeships

October 23, 2025

For some students, the path to a diploma can feel overwhelming, filled with barriers that seem impossible to overcome. But at Sanford Community Adult Education, Director Jayne Per...

Sanford High School will host the Maine State Marching Band Finals on Saturday, October 25, at Alumni Stadium, marking the fourth consecutive year the school has welcomed bands from across Maine and New Hampshire to compete. The competition begins at 4:00 p.m., with the Sanford High School marching band scheduled to perform at 7:30 p.m. There is an admission fee. Eleven bands will compete throughout the evening, including Merrimack Valley, Lake Region, Biddeford, Lawrence, Blue Hawks, Westbrook, Old Orchard Beach, South Portland, Wells, Dover, and Sanford. A brief intermission is scheduled at 6:30 p.m. Sanford's theme for this year's performance is Echoes of the Earth. As finals week approaches, the band has focused their preparation on execution. "We're doing a lot of energy, a lot of music work, and just really focusing," Sanford junior Morgan Bailey said. "Now that we have the drill ability, we're starting to add the finishing touches." The band is looking to repeat last year's gold medal performance at state finals, where they earned five-star ratings across all categories including Music, General Effect, Color Guard, Percussion, Visual, and Drum Major. This year, the band's path to finals has included five competitions this season, opening at Biddeford High School on September 13, then traveling to UMass Amherst, followed by competitions at South Portland on October 4 and Wells High School on October 18. Sanford has become the natural choice to host the state finals due to its facilities and experience, according to SHS Band Director Hailey Francoeur. Alumni Stadium's combination of ample parking, a turf field, and spacious bleachers makes it an ideal venue for accommodating the bands, spectators, and equipment that a statewide competition requires. For Bailey, this season's highlight came at the US Bands competition at UMass Amherst. "We got to see so many other different schools and stuff, see a bigger community and larger families," Bailey said. That competition resulted in a first-place finish in Division 2A on September 27. This past weekend, the band continued their winning streak by earning four out of five stars in all categories at their MBDA competition. Francoeur emphasized that the band's success wouldn't be possible without the Music Boosters, who provide snacks before every Tuesday and Thursday rehearsal, prepare lunches before Saturday competitions that run from 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m., and help with everything from sewing costumes to hauling trailers. For more information about volunteering for the state finals or supporting the band program, contact Director Hailey Francoeur at Sanford High School.

Sanford High School to Host State Marching Band Finals

October 22, 2025

Sanford High School will host the Maine State Marching Band Finals on Saturday, October 25, at Alumni Stadium, marking the fourth consecutive year the school has welcomed bands fr...

Sanford Spotlight

October 22, 2025

Click here to read the latest Sanford Spotlight district newsletter.

Photo Credit: Amalia Fajardo, Sanford Senior & Grace Kenney, Traip Senior, Academy of Business

SRTC Program Highlight: Auto Collision Repair Program

October 21, 2025

Photo Credit: Amalia Fajardo, Sanford Senior & Grace Kenney, Traip Senior, Academy of Business This is part of a series highlighting the career and technical education prog...

Carl J. Lamb School's Spartan Show Choir made their mark at the Maine chapter of the American Choral Directors Association's annual Fall Conference, earning an invitation that represents a tremendous honor, particularly for a group at the elementary level. On October 10, more than 70 music educators from across Maine gathered at Windham High School for the Maine ACDA Fall Conference. Among the day's highlights was a performance by CJL's Spartan Show Choir, personally invited by MEACDA President Julia Edwards. This year's conference carried additional significance with Robyn Hilger, Executive Director of ACDA National, serving as keynote speaker, placing the CJL students on both a statewide and national stage.

Carl J. Lamb Show Choir Performs at Maine ACDA Fall Conference

October 17, 2025

Carl J. Lamb School's Spartan Show Choir made their mark at the Maine chapter of the American Choral Directors Association's annual Fall Conference, earning an invitation that rep...

Homecoming Spirit Week at Sanford High School took place Oct. 6–11, bringing students, staff, and families together for a week of school pride, themed dress-up days, and exciting home games. Throughout the week, high school students competed grade against grade to win the spirit stick—a tradition passed down through generations of alumni. Each grade earned points by dressing up for spirit days, attending weeknight sporting events, painting large posters and crash-through banners, building floats, and participating in the parade. The celebration kicked off Monday, Oct. 6, with Adam Sandler Day, as students embraced laid-back, oversized styles. Tuesday brought the Soccer Mom vs. BBQ Dad theme, with students donning aprons, spatulas, and fanny packs. That evening, students showed their spirit at both volleyball and boys' soccer games at 7 pm, dressed in USA-themed attire. Wednesday's Disney Channel Theme Day showcased each class's creativity. Freshmen represented Disney Junior, sophomores embodied Marvel, juniors celebrated Disney Animation, and seniors brought Pixar to life. Students packed the girl's soccer game that night wearing neon. Thursday featured Red and White Day and the traditional pep rally, followed by field hockey's frat-themed home game at 6:30 pm. The week culminated Friday with the Homecoming Parade, followed by Student Council's inaugural Block Party where clubs and activities hosted vendors. The varsity football game at 7 pm drew an enthusiastic student section, where the spirit stick winner – the senior class – was finally announced.

Spirit Runs High For Homecoming Week

October 16, 2025

Homecoming Spirit Week at Sanford High School took place Oct. 6–11, bringing students, staff, and families together for a week of school pride, themed dress-up days, and exciting ...

Teachers Invest in Professional Learning During In-Service Day

October 16, 2025

On Friday October 10, while students enjoyed a day off, Sanford School Department teachers and staff were hard at work—investing in their own learning to better support our studen...

Officer Jourdain Receives Community Action Award from Sanford Police Department

October 16, 2025

(Photo credit: Sanford Police Department) Sanford School Resource Officer Joseph Jourdain was recognized with the Community Action Award at the Sanford Police Department's Annua...