Sanford School Department

Sanford Fall Athletes Earn State, Regional, and Conference Honors

November 26, 2025

Sanford High School's fall athletes earned recognition at the conference, state, and regional levels this season! Field hockey players Reese Beaudoin and Hailey Payeur both earned...

Students across Sanford came together this Thanksgiving in a district-wide effort that put complete dinners on the tables of dozens of local families. Through spirited competitions, generous community partnerships, and welcoming gatherings, the initiative exemplified the compassion and generosity that define Sanford. At Sanford High School, the Peer Helpers program's annual food drive provided complete Thanksgiving dinners for 50 families — feeding more than 250 people in the Sanford community. The effort was fueled by a friendly competition among the classes, with each grade assigned specific items to collect. Freshmen brought instant potatoes, sophomores contributed turkey gravy and cranberry sauce, juniors gathered canned vegetables, and seniors provided stuffing. Collection bins at the bottom of the Grey Wing steadily filled as students rallied to support their neighbors. "My favorite thing about this program is seeing the appreciation on students' and families' faces, as well as getting the entire school involved in doing a good thing," said Mrs. Letourneau, school counseling director and Peer Helpers organizer. But the students didn't do it alone. Marc Motors donated $1,000 to help provide Thanksgiving dinner with all the fixings for families in need. The Sanford/Springvale Chamber of Commerce continued its multi-year tradition of support by raising $650 from its members to purchase 50 turkeys — one for each family receiving a food box. Hannaford Supermarkets coordinated the turkey pick-up and delivery, bringing all the pieces together for complete holiday meals. At Sanford Middle School, students participated in the annual Holiday Food Drive Competition, organized by the school's Jobs For Maine Graduates (JMG) Program and coordinated by JMG Specialist Tara Houle. The spirited competition, which launched Nov. 4, pitted homerooms against each other for coveted turkey crowns and the glory of becoming champions. The food collected served a dual purpose: providing Thanksgiving meals for Sanford families and stocking the SMS Food Closet, which provides students with easy-to-prepare meals for evenings, weekends, and school breaks throughout the year. The pantry remains accessible to all SMS students and families as a vital community resource. Margaret Chase Smith Elementary took a different approach to the season of giving, hosting "The Heart of Sanford Community Dinner" on November 25 in the school cafeteria. The event welcomed families with children enrolled in Sanford Schools for an evening of good food, laughter, and local hospitality. Across the district, the efforts of students, staff, and community partners ensured that Sanford families could gather around tables filled with Thanksgiving meals. From the student-led competitions to local business support and welcoming community dinners, these initiatives demonstrated that when neighbors need neighbors most, Sanford answers the call.

Sanford Schools Unite to Feed Families This Thanksgiving

November 26, 2025

Students across Sanford came together this Thanksgiving in a district-wide effort that put complete dinners on the tables of dozens of local families. Through spirited competition...

There's no single "right answer" in engineering, and that's exactly what makes SRTC’s Engineering Technologies Program so exciting. Instructor Ethan Mathieu loves seeing the creativity his students bring to solving problems, with each one of them finding their own approach to the same engineering challenge. This two-year program at Sanford Regional Technical Center serves as a launchpad for students heading to university engineering programs, exposing them to the engineering design process, diverse engineering disciplines, and the knowledge and skills they'll need to succeed at the college level. Mathieu brings both electrical engineering and educational experience to the classroom, approaching instruction with a growth mindset philosophy.What he enjoys most about teaching the program is witnessing student ingenuity in action. "There's so many ways to approach a problem," Mathieu explained. "It's always pleasantly surprising to see the different creative solutions my students find to approach the engineering problems we encounter in class." Students explore the engineering design process from concept to implementation, learning about different disciplines and the career paths available in the field. The program goes beyond theoretical knowledge by having students apply math and science concepts to develop and include solutions to authentic engineering problems using industry-standard tools, equipment, and technology. For second-year student Ethan Hafenecker, the program has provided clarity about his future path. "SRTC has made me smarter and more prepared for my life and future," Hafenecker said. "I have an idea of what I want to do and what I can expect to get into after graduating." His experience reflects how the program helps students discover their career direction while building practical skills. The program provides opportunities that extend beyond the classroom walls. Recently, students traveled to the University of Maine for the Windstorm Challenge, where they tested floating platforms in a wave pool and presented their engineering process to a panel of judges. These experiences give students authentic exposure to university-level engineering work while still in high school. Students can earn the NOCTI Pre-Engineering Certificate, demonstrating their competency in foundational engineering principles to colleges and employers. The program is currently working to establish a concurrent enrollment agreement with Southern Maine Community College, which would allow future students to earn college credits while completing the program, giving them an even greater head start on their engineering education. For Mathieu, the real reward goes beyond the equipment and credentials. Ultimately, it's about the students themselves. "My favorite part of SRTC is getting to meet students and seeing their skills as engineers grow and ideas come to life."

SRTC Program Highlight: Engineering Technologies

November 24, 2025

There's no single "right answer" in engineering, and that's exactly what makes SRTC’s Engineering Technologies Program so exciting. Instructor Ethan Mathieu loves seeing the creat...

Curriculum Newsletter

November 24, 2025

Click here to access the first edition of the district's Curriculum Newsletter for the 2025-2026 school year.

Students interested in healthcare careers will soon have a chance to explore five different pathways, learn from working professionals, and earn an automatic interview at Maine Health all within three months and at no cost. Sanford Community Adult Education is launching this pre-apprenticeship program through a new partnership with Maine Health. The hybrid program combines online learning modules with in-person classes at Sanford Community Adult Education. Students will explore five high-demand healthcare fields: Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA), Education Technician, Medical Assistant, Phlebotomy, and Psychiatric Technician. Throughout the three months, guest speakers who currently work in these roles will share their experiences, giving students a realistic picture of what these careers actually entail. Students who complete the pre-apprenticeship are automatically interviewed for positions at Maine Health. "This is a great way for students to dip their toes in without having this big commitment of taking on a training program or being hired," explains Sue Zimmer, who serves as the Maine College and Career Access Advisor at Sanford Community Adult Education. "They get to really figure out if it's really an interest for them." Many students think they're interested in healthcare, but the day-to-day reality can be quite different from what people imagine. This pre-apprenticeship gives students the chance to experience the field firsthand before committing to a full training program, helping them make informed decisions about their career path. The program can accommodate up to 100 students and is open to anyone ages 17 and older who is interested in healthcare careers. Participants do not need a high school diploma, and students from any community are welcome. For students who may have applied to other CNA programs but weren't accepted, this partnership offers an alternative pathway into the healthcare field. Sanford Community Adult Education will provide the space, student registration, and support services, while Maine Health will supply the instructors, educational content, and guest speakers. The structure includes asynchronous online learning combined with on-campus meetings, allowing students to balance their education with work and personal responsibilities. For Jayne Perkins, Director of Sanford Community Adult Education, partnerships like this one represent exactly the kind of opportunity that can change lives. "It's probably 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," Perkins explains. "Rather than 'you need to go get a job,' it's 'let's help you. Let's do that.' 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 the first time. So it's life changing for them."

Sanford Adult Education Partners with Maine Health for Career Training

November 24, 2025

Students interested in healthcare careers will soon have a chance to explore five different pathways, learn from working professionals, and earn an automatic interview at Maine He...

Sounds of the season in Sanford Nov. 30

November 20, 2025

SANFORD — The Strafford Wind Symphony returns to Sanford Performing Arts Center with its Holiday Pops concert that will fill your heart with the sights, the sounds, the spirit of...

Sanford Spotlight Newsletter

November 20, 2025

Click the link below to access the Sanford Spotlight Newsletter. https://tinyurl.com/ynz3eh32

StevieMac Fleetwood Mac Tribute Concert

November 19, 2025

SANFORD — StevieMac, a Fleetwood Mac and Stevie Nicks 'experience,"re-creates their most popular hits and the most memorable live performances one night only at the Sanford Perfo...

Inclement Weather Protocols

November 18, 2025

Dear Sanford School Department Parents and Guardians, Happy November! As winter approaches, I want to remind everyone of our weather-related protocols. When there is inclemen...

Sanford High Celebrates Fall Athletes at Record-Breaking Recognition Night

Sanford High School Celebrates Fall Athletes at Recognition Night

November 14, 2025

Sanford High School's Performing Arts Center filled with student-athletes, families, and coaches Thursday, November 13, as the school celebrated another successful fall athletic s...

Carl J. Lamb Elementary School held its third annual Veterans Day Celebration, featuring performances and an engaging history lesson that captivated students and honored local veterans. The assembly marked a special milestone for the school's youngest learners: it was the first-ever assembly for pre-kindergarten and kindergarten students, who demonstrated remarkable respect and patience throughout the program. Chief Jonathan Hotchkiss and his wife Jan presented a fascinating flag history demonstration, showing students historical American flags including the 1775 Navy flag with its red and white stripes and the Bunker Hill flag with its distinctive pine tree. Students learned how Maine's white pine trees were used to make ship masts and counted the 13 stripes representing the original colonies. Chief Hotchkiss also led students in the flag ceremony, along with two other veterans, Dennis Boyd, Sr. and Punky Noble. Second graders Wesley and Dennis had the honor of holding the flag. The school's show choir performed "Because of You," a tribute to veterans' service and sacrifice. Veterans were then invited to the front of the stage for a performance by all grades. Students dressed in red, white, and blue and performed songs including "Thank You to Our Veterans" and "The Star Spangled Banner" for what one second grader described as "like a billion veterans" gathered in the cafeteria. After practicing all week and having a dress rehearsal on Friday, students were excited to share their tribute. "It was awesome," said second grader Wesley, whose father attended the celebration. His classmate Evelyn's father helped with the flag ceremony, adding to the personal connections that made the day meaningful for both students and veterans alike.

Carl J. Lamb Elementary Hosts Third Annual Veterans Day Celebration

November 14, 2025

Carl J. Lamb Elementary School held its third annual Veterans Day Celebration, featuring performances and an engaging history lesson that captivated students and honored local vet...

Margaret Chase Smith School welcomed 65 veterans to their annual Veterans Day Breakfast, creating a morning filled with performances, poetry, and meaningful connections across generations. The celebration featured presentations from students across all grade levels. The Den Ambassadors, a ten-member fourth grade student leadership team, opened with an original poem honoring the courage and sacrifices of veterans. "Veterans are brave men and women who are still alive today. We thank them for their service and the price they choose to pay," the students recited. Second graders each shared poetry and performances they had practiced throughout the week. Fourth graders distributed handmade bookmarks to each veteran as keepsakes to remind them of the school's appreciation. The fourth grade chorus, under the direction of Miss. Hastings, performed a song about sacrifice and service, despite having only four practices since chorus began in mid-October. The entire school then joined together to sing the MCS school song. A particularly touching moment came when the school connected via video call with a father of two MCS students who is currently deployed in Saudi Arabia. Despite the time difference, he was able to join the breakfast virtually and see the presentations honoring his service and that of his fellow veterans. Among the 65 veterans in attendance was Sarge, a beloved Ledgemere bus driver, adding to the sense of community and connection throughout the morning.

Margaret Chase Smith Elementary Honors Veterans at Annual Breakfast

November 13, 2025

Margaret Chase Smith Elementary School welcomed veterans to their annual Veterans Day Breakfast, creating a morning filled with performances, poetry, and meaningful connections ac...

On Veterans Day, Sanford Pride's 4th grade chorus students traveled to Pinnacle Health in Sanford to honor local veterans with a special musical performance. What began as a simple visit turned into an unforgettable experience for both students and residents alike. The young singers delivered beautiful performances that filled the facility with joy, and each student had prepared handmade cards and letters to present to the veterans. While some children were initially shy about speaking with the residents, those hesitations quickly melted away as conversations began to flow naturally. By the time the bus arrived to take the students back to school, teachers found it nearly impossible to gather the group—the 4th graders were so engaged in their conversations with the veterans that they didn't want to leave! The feeling was clearly mutual, as several residents seemed delighted to welcome their "35 new grandchildren" for the afternoon. "It was a heartwarming, eye-opening, and positive experience for our students to have," said music teacher Meaghan Mannino. This intergenerational connection provided students with meaningful lessons that extended far beyond the music—about taking time to listen, connect, and show appreciation to those who have served our country.

Sanford Pride Chorus Students Honor Veterans Through Song at Pinnacle Health and Rehab

November 13, 2025

On Veterans Day, Sanford Pride's chorus students traveled to Pinnacle Health in Sanford to honor local veterans with a special musical performance. What began as a simple visit tu...

Four Sanford High Students Selected for Elite Regional Honors Choirs

Four Sanford High School Students Selected for Elite Regional Honors Choirs

November 13, 2025

Four Sanford High School vocalists have earned spots in the American Choral Directors Association (ACDA) Eastern Division Honors Choirs, a prestigious recognition that places them...

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1qJFIem5eNYsT5IRIKbWZYoQ_f3v5yzq4/view

The SMS Times: November Edition

November 12, 2025

Click here to read Sanford Middle's online newspaper, The SMS Times.

Sanford Students Explore Future Pathways at Career and College Fair

November 12, 2025

When Sanford Regional Technical Center student Autumn Liston entered Partners Bank Gymnasium for Thursday's Career and College Fair, she was planning to delay her education and wo...

Sanford High School Theater Company presents Thornton Wilder’s timeless American classic, Our Town at Sanford Performing Arts Center. Performances will be held on Friday, November 14 at 7 pm, Saturday, November 15 at 7 pm, and Sunday, November 16 at 2 pm. Set in the small town of Grover’s Corners, Our Town tells the universal story of everyday life, love, and loss. Through simple yet profound moments, the play invites audiences to reflect on what it means to truly appreciate the beauty in ordinary days. Wilder’s masterful storytelling continues to resonate with audiences nearly a century after its debut. This production features a cast of 22 talented SHS students, including Braeden Landry as the omniscient Stage Manager, Anna Brown as the spirited Emily Webb, and Jack Van Gieson as the earnest George Gibbs. “Our Town reminds us all to slow down and recognize the extraordinary in the everyday,” said director Brett Williams. “Our students have found deep meaning in this story, connecting its themes of family and friendship to their own experiences growing up in Sanford.” Tickets are $13 for adults, $10 for seniors and active military, and free for students. Come celebrate live theater and the remarkable work of Sanford’s young artists!

Sanford High School Theatre Company Presents "Our Town"

November 10, 2025

Sanford High School Theater Company presents Thornton Wilder’s timeless American classic, Our Town at Sanford Performing Arts Center. Performances will be held on Friday, November...

Making Every Day Count: Attendance During the Holiday Season

November 10, 2025

Dear Families, As we approach the busy holiday season, we want to remind you of the importance of regular school attendance. We know this time of year brings many celebrations, f...

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...