Sanford School Department

New Mentorship Program Takes Flight at Sanford Pride Elementary

November 22, 2024

A new mentorship program at Sanford Pride Elementary is bringing community members and students together to help children with relationships and aspirations. The program, launc...

Kick off the season with Holiday Pops Nov. 30

November 22, 2024

Experience the enchantment of the season with the Strafford Wind Symphony's Holiday Pops show at 7 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 30, at the Sanford Performing Arts Center. The night wil...

Sanford High School celebrated the induction of its newest members into the National Honor Society (NHS) during a ceremony held in the Performing Arts Center on Tuesday, November 19th. The event highlighted the accomplishments of students who have demonstrated exceptional scholarship, leadership, service, and character. Principal Tracy Gibson was one of the guest speakers for the ceremony. She expressed her honor in recognizing both new inductees and veteran NHS members. "Our National Honor Society members have been recognized by our staff for demonstrating not only academic prowess but a commitment to growth and integrity," Gibson said. SHS math teacher Adam Soule also spoke. Soule, a longtime teacher at Sanford, emphasized these students' impact on the school community. "You make the school an easier place to work and a better place for other students to be in. You are role models... people notice when you do your job, when you don't give up, when you help others." Current NHS members then took the stand to speak about the organization's four pillars. NHS secretary McKenna Nanartowich emphasized that scholarship is "more than just earning high grades. It is a commitment to learning, curiosity and intellectual growth." She added that "human education only ends at the end of life." On service, chapter president Quang Lam highlighted how service means "performing selfless acts that transcend the ordinary," adding that "in the normal acts of service, we scope a better world with our own hands, our hearts and our community." Savannah Knight, the NHS treasurer, described leadership as "an inspiring individual or society that is willing to work together and share a goal that will leave an impact on others." Finally, NHS Vice President Lexi Hayward defined character as "the force within the individual that distinguishes each person from others," noting that "character is achieved and not perceived. It is a product of constant thought, action, and striving daily to make the right choice." Following these reflections on the pillars of NHS, the new members were then inducted one at a time. Congratulations to the following students who were inducted: Cole Adawadkar, Summer Bowtell, Kallu Charron, Cayce Chevalier, Grace Pearson, Connor Rice, Ben Terril, Olivia Adornetto, Bradi Boissonneault, Evelyn Cole, Addison Gendreau, Lily Gillis, Matthew Hebert, Rebecca Horton, Ava Hudson, Linda-Rose Krol, Hannah Labbe, Isabelle McCall, Matthew Melvin, Madison Nadeau, Sophie Olivo, Connor Pickering, Taiga Poppas, Perrin Shaw, Leah Soucy, Annalise Stimmell, Rachel Tanguay, and Lydia Treadwell.

Sanford High School Welcomes New Members to National Honor Society

November 22, 2024

Sanford High School celebrated the induction of its newest members into the National Honor Society (NHS) during a ceremony held in the Performing Arts Center on Tuesday, November...

Sanford High School and Regional Technical Center hosted the second annual York County Legislative Summit in the Performing Arts Center on Thursday, November 14th, bringing together educators, legislators and community leaders to address the critical issues of student homelessness in the community and educational priorities for the upcoming legislative session.. The evening began with welcoming remarks from Carter Friend, CEO of York County Community Action, and Jeremy Ray, Superintendent of Biddeford and Dayton School Departments. Emily Flinkstrom, Executive Director of Fair Tide, then presented the Statewide Homeless Council's legislative priorities. York County's specific homelessness priorities were outlined by Megan Gean-Gendron, Executive Director of York County Shelter Programs, who focused on shelter funding, street outreach support, and mental health services. The summit also featured presentations on domestic violence and homelessness by Susan Giambalvo of Caring Unlimited, and seniors experiencing homelessness by Megan Walton of Southern Maine Agency on Aging. Sanford Superintendent Matt Nelson highlighted how the school department works to support students experiencing housing instability. "Every student deserves a stable environment to learn and grow," Nelson said. Currently, 725 students across York County schools face housing insecurity. The summit focused on developing solutions through increased state support for transportation services for displaced students, mental health and counseling resources, emergency shelter funding, affordable housing development, and support programs for families at risk of homelessness. The York County Superintendents Association emphasized that schools are often the first to identify and assist students in crisis. Our district works together to provide educational support, nutrition services, and mental health resources to students across the county. Following the main presentations, discussions continued in Sanford High School's Agora, where attendees enjoyed dinner prepared by students from Sanford Regional Technical Center's Culinary Arts Program. This portion of the evening, led by York County Superintendents, allowed for more in-depth conversations about educational priorities and how legislators and school departments can better work together to support students, school personnel, families and taxpayers.

Sanford High School and Regional Technical Center Hosts 2nd Annual York County Legislative Summit

November 21, 2024

Sanford High School and Regional Technical Center hosted the second annual York County Legislative Summit in the Performing Arts Center on Thursday, November 14th, bringing toget...

Margaret Chase Smith Elementary School’s music teacher Heather Hastings has been named winner of the prestigious Women Band Directors Commission Competition. Hastings’ original compositions for the concert band, submitted in August, emerged victorious after two rounds of blind judging. Her music won against 53 other submissions. As the winner, she will create a new musical piece honoring Gladys Stone Wright, who is the founding president of Women Band Directors International (WBDI). “I am honored to be chosen to write this work in honor of Gladys Stone Wright, an incredible and groundbreaking woman in the field of music education,” Hastings said. The new composition will debut next school year at a special world premiere performance. As part of a consortium project, multiple ensembles across the country will then present regional performances. Hastings will receive her honorary WBDI membership at a ceremony next winter in Chicago, where she will also attend the premiere.

Margaret Chase Smith Music Teacher Wins National Band Composition Award

November 20, 2024

Margaret Chase Smith Elementary School’s music teacher Heather Hastings has been named winner of the prestigious Women Band Directors Commission Competition. Hastings’ original ...

Sanford Middle School Students Join Statewide Leadership Summit in Augusta

November 20, 2024

Nearly twenty Sanford Middle School students recently participated in the Maine Youth Action Network’s Leadership Summit in Augusta, demonstrating their commitment to community ...

Sanford Spotlight Newsletter

November 20, 2024

Check out the latest news from the district in the Sanford Spotlight Newsletter by clicking here .

Local Author Ashlee Ridlon Visits Sanford Community Adult Education

November 19, 2024

Sanford Community Adult Education recently hosted a community event featuring local author Ashlee Ridlon. On November 16th, more than 30 families gathered to meet the author and ...

Sanford Middle School joined communities across the nation in observing Red Ribbon Week recently, demonstrating their commitment to promoting drug-free living among youth. The school organized multiple engaging activities to reinforce this important message. Students had opportunities to make personal pledges toward living drug-free and show their support by adding stickers to a community pledge board. A highlight of this year's week was the vaping prevention panel designed specifically for sixth-grade students. The panel addressed critical issues facing today's youth, diving deep into why some students turn to vaping and how peer pressure influences these decisions. Experts discussed the science behind vaping's negative effects on developing brains, bodies, and emotional well-being. The interactive session also focused on positive alternatives, highlighting constructive ways to manage stress and anxiety, such as participating in sports, joining YMCA activities, and engaging in other healthy recreational pursuits. Students learned about available resources both within the school and the broader community, empowering them to seek help or support friends who might be struggling with substance use. Fifth-grade students participated in specialized classroom sessions focused on vaping prevention and developing strategies to respond to peer pressure, while seventh and eighth-grade students benefited from guest speaker presentations. Daily morning announcements shared messages about maintaining a healthy, drug-free lifestyle. Students participated in interactive activities including word searches and an "Above the Influence" clouds project. The school also showed their solidarity by wearing red on Wednesday. The week culminated with a powerful presentation by nationally recognized youth advocate Rob Holla, who spoke to seventh and eighth-grade students about the serious health risks of vaping. Drawing from his background as an X-ray technician, Holla combined medical knowledge with engaging, real-world examples that resonated with students. His presentation included video testimonials, statistics about vaping-related health risks, and practical information about free, confidential resources for those seeking help to quit. Holla's tech-savvy approach and ability to connect with young audiences helped make serious medical information accessible and memorable for middle school students. The success of Red Ribbon Week was made possible through the dedicated efforts of the school counseling team, including Angela Avery and Reuben Christie, along with Brent Coleman and outreach worker Cecilia Sirianni, who worked together to coordinate these important awareness and prevention activities for Sanford's middle school students.

Red Ribbon Week at Sanford Middle School

November 19, 2024

Sanford Middle School joined communities across the nation in observing Red Ribbon Week recently, demonstrating their commitment to promoting drug-free living among youth. The s...

Sanford High School held its fall sports recognition night on Tuesday, November 12th, in the Performing Arts Center to recognize student-athletes and their teams' accomplishments. The event began with SHS Athletic Director Zach Lemelin recognizing student-athletes who maintained a cumulative GPA of 92.5 or higher. The school's Leadership Council members, who attended 70% of weekly Wednesday meetings, were also honored for their dedication. Following the leadership recognition, each fall coach had the opportunity to share their season highlights and present team awards. In Golf, Head Coach Rossie Kearson highlighted the team's progress throughout the season. "While the season didn't necessarily go as well as I would like, I can honestly say there's a lot of progress made," he said. Brayden Baron earned Second-Team All-SMAA Conference honors and was named Sanford's Most Outstanding Golfer, while Ethan Burns received Most Improved Player recognition for his dedication in his first year of golf. Noah Corliss earned the Coaches' Award for his positive attitude and perseverance. Cross Country Head Coach Nate Smith celebrated significant milestones for his team, including the boys' team winning the Class A Sportsmanship Banner for the first time in program history. The team achieved 42 personal records and met 23 personal and team goals. Team captains Sophie Therrien, Eliza Allen, Gabe Waterman, and Jack Van Gieson were recognized for their "superlative leadership." In girls' soccer, head coach Dave McCall said leadership led the team to steady improvement throughout the season. "Our varsity team was very competitive. We played against the top teams in the league and were right there with everybody," McCall shared. Sophie Olivo, Savannah Knight, Kya Duprey, Ava Hudson, and Adeline Fiandaca each received conference honors. Despite facing the third-toughest schedule in Maine, according to head coach Mark Boissonneault, the Football team showed tremendous heart. Rhylen Avery was named the team's Offensive MVP, accumulating 1,022 yards on 164 carries. Brady Boissonneault was named Defensive MVP, recording 63 tackles and demonstrating exceptional leadership as linebacker. Volleyball head coach Ryan Geary praised the team's growth and resilience throughout their challenging schedule. Emmy Chase was recognized as Most Improved Player, while Samone Gallagher was named Most Valuable Player. Field Hockey head coach Marti Kane celebrated the program's continued improvement, noting the team's best regular season record in recent years at 10-4. The team had five players earn All-Conference recognition, with Audrey Payeur receiving First-Team honors and consideration for All-American status. Hailey Payeur, Paige Sevigny, Sadie Sevigny, and Linda Rose Krol received the other conference recognitions. Boys' soccer head coach Bill Puffer maintained optimism despite a challenging season. "I'm extremely proud of all the boys, all the hours that they put in, the hard work and the dedication," Puffer celebrated a few standout players with Levi Mann earning Defensive Player of the Year and All-Conference recognition for the second consecutive year. Cole Adawadkar and Gavin Hebler were also highlighted for their commitment and dedication. Cheerleading head coach Catrina Woodard recognized several outstanding members through awards voted on by the squad. Amelia Walker earned Most Improved Player, transforming from a timid sophomore to a confident athlete willing to try new skills. Madison Osborne received the Most Spirit award for her enthusiasm and energy, while Natalie Lam was voted Most Valuable Player. Taylor Coffey earned the Coaches' Award for going "above and beyond for the football players, for cheerleaders and for me and literally everybody," including taking a leadership role during homecoming week.

Sanford High School Fall Sports Recognition Night

November 15, 2024

Sanford High School held its fall sports recognition night on Tuesday, November 12th, in the Performing Arts Center to recognize student-athletes and their teams' accomplishments...

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Alumni Spotlight

November 15, 2024

The Sanford School Department is starting an Alumni Spotlight to feature graduates who have made strides in their careers, contributed to their communities, or achieved personal...

Employee Spotlight

November 15, 2024

The Sanford School Department is spotlighting employees at all of our schools. If you know an employee who you feel should be highlighted, please email Sam Bonsey ( sbonsey@san...

Margaret Chase Smith Pre-K Students Share Family Learning Journey at Special Showcase

November 14, 2024

Mrs. Devine's Pre-K class at Margaret Chase Smith welcomed families on Wednesday afternoon for their first showcase of the year. Students proudly presented their month-long explor...

Curriculum Newsletter

November 14, 2024

Click here for the Sanford School Department's Curriculum Newsletter. Each edition brings essential updates about district programming, assessments, and upcoming events. This...

Sanford High School Theater Company to Present “12 ANGRY JURORS” at Sanford Performing Arts Center

November 14, 2024

Sanford High School Theater Company is set to captivate audiences with a powerful production of “12 Angry Jurors” at Sanford Performing Arts Center from November 22-24, 2024. Thi...

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 inclement weather, we work closely with local authorities, public works, transportation services, meteorologists, and nearby school districts to make informed decisions about school delays, early dismissals, or cancellations. Ensuring our students and staff’s safety is our top priority.

Inclement Weather Protocols

November 13, 2024

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...

Anti-Vaping Expert Rob Holla Speaks to Sanford Middle School Students

November 12, 2024

Nationally recognized youth advocate Rob Holla spoke to Sanford Middle School's 7th and 8th-grade students on Friday, November 8th, about the serious health risks of vaping and th...

Holiday Assistance For Sanford Families

November 12, 2024

Looking for help with holiday gifts and meals? Several local organizations in the Sanford area are stepping up to ensure every family can celebrate this holiday season. Here's wha...

Sanford Pride Fourth-Graders Honor Veterans Through Song at Local Nursing Home

November 9, 2024

Sanford Pride Elementary's fourth-grade chorus brought joy to Pinnacle Health and Rehab Nursing Facility Friday morning, uniting the school department's young musicians with loca...

Students, staff, and community members gathered at Carl J. Lamb Elementary School for a Veterans Day celebration that combined patriotic music, student performances, and a special recognition ceremony for local veterans. Under the direction of music teacher Hattie Skvorak, Carl J Lamb students delivered a musical tribute to honor those who have served our country. The school's cafeteria was transformed for the occasion with red, white, and blue balloon arrangements, patriotic banners, and American flags held proudly by students. "This is a really special day that we take as a school to honor and celebrate all of your sacrifices. I'm so appreciative of all the hard work and dedication our students have shown in preparing the musical performances for today's ceremony," Skvorak said. "They've grown musically through the process, all while learning an important message of gratitude and service. These songs are a small way for us to say thank you to those who have served." The celebration featured a moment when veterans were invited to the front of the room, where they stood before the assembled students and received heartfelt applause from the school community. The young performers, dressed in patriotic colors, demonstrated their appreciation through song. Students from various grade levels participated in the event, with many wearing special headbands and carrying small American flags to show their support. Concluding the celebration was an educational flag-folding demonstration, which served as both a learning opportunity and a tribute. Twenty students were selected to participate in this meaningful ritual alongside a military chief. Each precise fold of the flag was explained to the audience, representing values such as honor, courage, and sacrifice that are fundamental to military service. Students demonstrated remarkable respect and attention during this tradition, which required careful coordination. The celebration served as a powerful reminder of the importance of honoring our veterans while teaching the next generation about service, sacrifice, and the sacred traditions that help us remember and respect those who have served our country.

Carl J. Lamb Elementary School Honors Veterans with Student Musical Tribute and Flag Ceremony

November 9, 2024

Students, staff, and community members gathered at Carl J. Lamb Elementary School for a Veterans Day celebration that combined patriotic music, student performances, and a specia...