Sanford School Department

Sanford Community Adult Education Celebrates Largest Graduating Class in York County

June 12, 2026

Sanford Community Adult Education celebrated its Class of 2026 graduation ceremony on Wednesday, June 10, honoring 27 graduates. The evening brought together families, friends, ed...

Margaret Chase Smith Kindergartners Complete Their Final K for ME Unit

June 12, 2026

Margaret Chase Smith kindergartners recently wrapped up their final K for ME unit of the year, and what a meaningful one it was! Students dove into the natural world, learning all...

SRTC Student Wins Gold at National SkillsUSA Competition

SRTC Student Wins Gold Medal at National SkillsUSA Competition

June 11, 2026

Sanford Regional Technical Center student Connor Wilcox won the gold medal in Electrical Construction Wiring at the 2026 SkillsUSA National Leadership and Skills Conference, finis...

https://june-sanford-spotligh-zjji47i.gamma.site

Sanford Spotlight Newsletter

June 11, 2026

Click here to read the latest edition of the Sanford Spotlight Newsletter.

For Jordyn Martin, a sophomore at Sanford High School, a journalism class started as a curiosity. That curiosity grew into a passion, first as a writer for the Spartan Times, Sanford High's online newspaper, and now as a staff writer for the Sanford Springvale News. Martin earned the role through Sanford High School’s Extended Learning Opportunities. After writing a promotional piece for Sanford High's performing arts department production of Newsies, Sanford Springvale News editor Kendra Williams took notice and personally reached out to her. For Martin, the opportunity represented something bigger than a byline. "It means a lot to me to be part of this," Martin said. "It's not just writing for a school newspaper. It's so amazing to be part of the community in this way, and to be able to give back." Williams spoke highly of Martin's early work with the paper. "Through her first stories covering upcoming school and youth theater productions, she's already demonstrated professionalism, reliability, and a keen ability to tell engaging stories," Williams said. "With two years of high school still ahead of her, she has tremendous potential, and I'm excited to see how she grows as a journalist while taking on a wider variety of stories for our community newspaper." Martin credits her foundation to Journalism I, taught by Lauren Roy at Sanford High. The course introduced her to AP style, story structure, and the fundamentals of interviewing, all skills she now applies independently as a reporter. She admitted the early weeks were a challenge. Learning to write in a style she had never encountered before, with its specific rules around structure and formatting. But as the writing piled up, so did her confidence. "Once you get so familiar and comfortable with the style, it makes it a lot easier down the line," she said. "Now I can just get all the information and organize it in a way that helps people understand it." Interviewing, she noted, was one of the most valuable skills the class gave her. Martin handles all of her own interviews, from reaching out to sources to recording conversations and reviewing transcripts for accuracy. She has developed a style that prioritizes making people comfortable. Williams noted that Martin has "a natural talent for interviewing people and putting them at ease." "I just like to have a conversation," she said. "It's not as intimidating when it feels like that." Since joining the Sanford Springvale News, Martin has published articles focusing primarily on arts and entertainment. She is also drawn to stories about community fundraisers, work that she sees as a natural extension of her belief that local efforts deserve recognition. Seeing her byline in print for the first time, picking up a copy at Shaw's the morning it was published, was a moment she said she will not forget. "It just meant so much to me that someone saw something in me, and something in my hard work, and my passion," she said. Sanford Springvale News Managing Editor Michelle McCarthy said young writers like Martin bring "fresh energy and perspective" to the paper, gaining experience in what she described as a "low-key, nurturing yet professional environment." Back at Sanford High School, Martin will serve as a copy editor for the Spartan Times next year and plans to launch a broadcast segment covering arts and entertainment, a new challenge she is already looking forward to. Longer term, she hopes to pursue journalism as a career. "There's always a story," she said. "It always keeps me on my toes."

Sanford High School Sophomore Joins Sanford Springvale News as Staff Writer

June 10, 2026

For Jordyn Martin, a sophomore at Sanford High School, a journalism class started as a curiosity. That curiosity grew into a passion, first as a writer for the Spartan Times, Sanf...

Sanford High School recognized dozens of student-athletes for academic achievement, leadership, and athletic performance at its Spring Sports Awards Recognition Night on Monday, June 8, in the Performing Arts Center. The evening began with recognition of academic excellence, as SHS Athletic Director Zach Lemelin honored students who achieved a cumulative GPA of 92.5 or higher. More than 50 athletes earned All-Academic certificates, led by 25 honorees from the outdoor track and field team and 11 from varsity girls tennis. Baseball, softball, boys and girls lacrosse, and boys tennis rounded out the academic honors, with recognition extending to JV athletes as well. Coaches then presented individual sport awards showcasing the talent across Sanford's spring athletic programs. The baseball team celebrated Most Valuable Player Matthew Hebert, who swept multiple honors on the night. Cayden Gendron received the Coaches Award, Jack Stimmell earned the Spartan Award, and Cody Lockard was recognized as the team's Unsung Hero. The softball program honored Faith Martel with the Spartan Award and Laelani Morris with the Coaches Award, while Reese Beaudoin was named Rookie of the Year. In girls lacrosse, Natalie Nadeau earned Defensive Player honors, Sophie Olivo received the Coaches Award, Paige Sevigny was recognized as the team's Utility player, and Zoey McCann took home the Spartan Award. Peyton White and Olivia Kezar shared Rookie of the Year recognition. Track and field celebrated standouts in both programs. Isaac Pelletier and Jack Van Gieson earned Most Valuable honors in track and field events, respectively, for the boys, with Avery Wedge named Rookie of the Year. For the girls, Jaslinn Johnson (track) and Mattea Peters (field) took Most Valuable honors, and Grace Cochrane was Rookie of the Year. In tennis, Elijah Bowden was named Most Valuable for the boys, with Brody Hartman earning Most Improved, Elijah Laurendeau the Coaches Award, and Levi Mann Rookie of the Year. The girls team recognized Hailey Payeur as Most Improved, Amelia Fernandez as Outstanding Rookie, Olivia Adornetto with the Coaches Award, and Lyla Fiandaca with the Spartan Award. Several Sanford athletes also earned conference-level recognition. Hebert capped his standout season with the Freddy Parent Award for York County and Second-Team honors at catcher, while Drew Vessels made the First Team at second base, Gendron earned All-Defensive Team recognition at third base, and Ryan Alexander received an Honorable Mention. In girls lacrosse, Sevigny and McCann were named All-Conference, with Olivo and Evelyn Cole earning Honorable Mention and White selected to the SMAA All-Rookie Team. In softball, Beaudoin and Bree Tyler each earned All-Conference Honorable Mention.

Spring Sports Awards Night Celebrates Sanford High School Athletes

June 9, 2026

Sanford High School recognized dozens of student-athletes for academic achievement, leadership, and athletic performance at its Spring Sports Awards Recognition Night on Monday, J...

Sanford Middle School Hosts Annual JMG Closing Ceremony

June 8, 2026

Sanford Middle School hosted its annual Jobs for Maine's Graduates Closing Ceremony recently, bringing together students, families, and community members to celebrate another succ...

Sanford Girls Complete 'Girls on the Run' 5K at Topsham Fairgrounds

June 5, 2026

Girls from four Sanford schools headed to the Topsham Fairgrounds to compete in the Girls on the Run 5K, joining participants from across the state of Maine. Students and staff f...

Carl J. Lamb Elementary School hosted its third annual Adaptive Track and Field Festival on Thursday, May 28, bringing together students, families, staff, and community members for a day of competition, camaraderie, and celebration. Preparation for the event began well before the big day. Throughout the year, the team used adaptive P.E. classes to teach and practice the skills athletes would need for the festival, while also coordinating with case managers to tailor the event to each student's individual strengths and goals. The event was organized by health and physical education teacher Tatyana Wolterbeek, alongside colleague Dave Eldridge and Kathy McCall, Assistant Special Education Director for the Sanford School Department. This year, organizers made a focused effort to build understanding and inclusion across the entire school. Slideshows were shared in classrooms school-wide, helping students recognize that everyone has different abilities, some visible and some not, and that all students are capable of succeeding in everyday tasks. That message was felt throughout the day. The festival followed a specific format: athletes gathered for a group photo before the parade of athletes marched through the school hallways and out to the field for the opening ceremony, complete with the Pledge of Allegiance and the National Anthem, performed by Carl J. Lamb’s 4th Grade Chorus. Students from Pre-K through fourth grade lined the hallways and sidewalks, cheering on their classmates as they passed. Competition events included the 100-yard run, 50-yard hurdle dash, standing long jump, turbo javelin throw, softball throw, and parachute activities, each designed to give athletes the chance to shine. For Wolterbeek, whose behind-the-scenes work was central to making the day a success, the real reward came in watching the athletes themselves. "The highlight of the day was seeing the athletes shine. There is nothing like seeing their faces when they compete, enjoy something designed specifically for them, and receive their medals. Having their classmates and teachers cheering them on really is the cherry on top. It creates such a strong, inclusive environment. We are so grateful for our community support, from the PTA sponsoring our t-shirts to the 4th-grade volunteers, chorus members, and staff who stepped up to help run events. It makes such a difference to the athletes." Skvorak, whose chorus helped open the celebration, shared a similar feeling. "The Carl J. Lamb Adaptive Track and Field Event was an incredible showcase of our students' talents, our school culture, and the support for our students. Watching our athletes shine while being cheered on by their peers was such a special experience, and was the best way to celebrate their successes!"

Carl J. Lamb Hosts Third Annual Adaptive Track and Field Festival

June 5, 2026

Carl J. Lamb Elementary School hosted its third annual Adaptive Track and Field Festival on Thursday, May 28, bringing together students, families, staff, and community members fo...

Sanford High School Celebrates 133rd Commencement Ceremony

June 4, 2026

Sanford High School held its 133rd Commencement Ceremony on Wednesday, June 3, at Alumni Stadium, gathering graduates from the Class of 2026 alongside their families, faculty, and...

Sanford High Celebrates Seniors at Annual Awards Ceremony

Sanford High School Celebrates Seniors at Annual Awards Ceremony

June 4, 2026

Sanford High School held its annual Senior Awards Night on Monday evening in the Performing Arts Center, honoring the Class of 2026 for academic achievement, athletic excellence, ...

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2vvf6ZV6p7s

Watch Sanford High School's Spring Concerts

June 3, 2026

The Performing Arts Center came alive for Sanford High School's Spring Concerts. Watch them below!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0SxrYkTamQI

Watch Carl J. Lamb's Spring Concerts

June 2, 2026

Watch the concert videos below!

Sanford High School celebrated 16 students during a Senior Athlete Signing Ceremony held Wednesday afternoon as these seniors officially committed to continue their athletic careers at the collegiate level. Athletic Director Zach Lemelin opened the ceremony by recognizing the dedication and countless hours these student-athletes have invested in their sports before introducing each senior with remarks from their coaches. "These student-athletes have spent countless hours working to improve their skills and abilities, all while gaining accolades across the SMAA and the State of Maine. They are a credit to their parents and families, and a special thank you to the many coaches at all levels who have played a pivotal role in their growth,” Lemelin said. Ryan Alexander will attend Southern Maine Community College to study Electrical Engineering and play basketball. A team captain and SMAA Honorable Mention honoree, Alexander was praised for his development into a complete offensive player and his energy within the program. Olivia Adornetto heads to Colby-Sawyer College for Child Development with a concentration in Occupational Therapy while playing tennis, recognized for her consistent growth and composure on the court over four years. Brady Boissonneault will study Sports and Recreational Management and play football at Curry College, earning praise for his deep knowledge of the game and his steady leadership. Evelyn Cole will pursue Marine Systems Engineering at Maine Maritime Academy while playing lacrosse, having taken up the sport as a junior and quickly excelling at the goalie position. Gabrielle Favolise will study Elementary Education and play volleyball at Thomas College, where her work ethic and leadership as a captain set the tone for her team. Dylan Gendron — First Team All-State, First Team All-Conference, and a Mr. Maine Basketball semifinalist — will study Finance and play basketball at the University of Southern Maine. Carter Giroux joins him on the hardwood at Southern Maine Community College, where he will study Business Administration after earning McDonald's Senior All-Star honors and the team's Most Improved Award. Matthew Hebert will study Special Education and play baseball at New England College, closing out a four-year varsity career behind the plate marked by consistent leadership and relentless effort. Gavin Hebler will play soccer and study Health Sciences at York County Community College, having helped lead a turnaround for the Sanford program as a captain. Ava Hudson heads to New England College for Business Administration and soccer, recognized for her vision, physicality, and impact as a leader in the midfield. Linda-Rose Krol will study Criminal Justice with a minor in Psychology and play field hockey at Dominican University, earning recognition for her discipline and commitment after coming to the sport in her sophomore year. Isabella McCall will study Exercise Science and play soccer at St. Joseph's College of Maine, praised for her defensive intensity, field vision, and multiple game-winning goals. Sophie Olivio will pursue Architecture at Norwich University and compete in both soccer and lacrosse, having been one of the top goalkeepers in the state during her varsity career. Annalise Stimmell will study Medical Biology/Pre-Med at St. Joseph's College of Maine while competing in soccer and track, described by coaches as tireless, poised, and selfless. Rory White heads to Simmons University for Psychiatric Nursing and swimming, recognized as a dedicated team-first competitor throughout her career. Georgia Whitman rounds out the group, competing in track and field at St. Joseph's College of Maine while studying Exercise Science, known as a fierce and inspiring competitor.

Sanford High School Seniors Sign To Play College Sports

June 1, 2026

Sanford High School celebrated 16 students during a Senior Athlete Signing Ceremony held Wednesday, May 27, as these seniors officially committed to continue their athletic career...

Sanford Middle Peer Leaders Spread Hope with Yellow Tulip Project

Sanford Middle School Peer Leaders Spread Hope with Yellow Tulip Project

June 1, 2026

Sanford Middle School's Sources of Strength Peer Leaders welcomed the school community to a bright and meaningful celebration on Monday, May 18, as students gathered outside near ...

Sanford Elementary Students Give Back Through Sneaker Drive Service Learning Project

May 29, 2026

This spring, students across all three of Sanford's elementary schools took part in a meaningful service learning project. As part of a school-wide Sneaker Drive that ran throug...

Sanford Spotlight Newsletter

May 29, 2026

Click here to read the latest Sanford Spotlight District Newsletter.

The Sanford School Department will be offering free meals to children and teens this summer through the Summer Food Service Program, kicking off Monday, June 22, 2026. Eight sites across the community will be serving meals, including Carl Lamb School, Sanford High School, Sanford Middle School, and Sanford Pride Elementary, as well as Curtis Lake Church, Carpentier Park, Springvale Playground, and the YMCA. Most locations serve breakfast from 7:30–8:30 a.m. and lunch from 11:00 a.m.–noon, with slight variations at some sites. The program is open to all children and teens 18 and under, and no registration is required. For more information, contact the Sanford School Department.

Summer Nutrition Program For Kids

May 28, 2026

The Sanford School Department will be offering free meals to children and teens this summer through the Summer Food Service Program, kicking off Monday, June 22, 2026. Eight sites...

SRTC Honors Class of 2026 at Annual Recognition Night

May 27, 2026

Sanford Regional Technical Center honored students and achievements at their annual Recognition Night Ceremony held Thursday, May 21, at Partners Bank Gymnasium. SRTC Director Ma...

The SMS Times

May 26, 2026

Check out Sanford Middle School's Online Newspaper, The SMS Times May/June Edition!