Sanford School Department

The gymnasium at Margaret Chase Smith Elementary was filled with pride, gratitude and patriotic spirit Thursday morning as students and staff welcomed dozens of veterans for their annual Veterans Day breakfast celebration. The morning brought together generations of service members from military branches, creating a memorable experience for both the veterans and their young family members. Students had spent weeks preparing special performances to honor their special guests. The gymnasium, decorated in patriotic blue tablecloths and American flag accents, became a stage for multiple grade-level presentations that showcased both learning and gratitude. The school's Den Ambassadors, a group of fourth-grade student leaders, led the ceremony by sharing important facts about Veterans Day and its significance. In a display of recognition, veterans were asked to stand and be acknowledged for their service. The morning's performances included heartfelt presentations from multiple grade levels. Mrs. Morrison's first-grade class delivered a touching poem expressing their appreciation for veterans' sacrifices. Second graders shared insights from their recent studies about veterans' impacts on our country, demonstrating how even young students can grasp the importance of military service and sacrifice. Following the breakfast and performances, families gathered around the "Our MCS Heroes" wall, which displayed a tribute of military photographs showcasing the proud service history of students' family members beneath service branch emblems and decorative stars. The collection of images spanning different eras of military service provided a visual reminder of the continuing legacy of military service within the Sanford community. Principal Tracie Hallissey expressed the school's gratitude for the veterans' service and emphasized the importance of helping students understand the significance of Veterans Day. The morning offered students a personal connection to military service through their interaction with family members who had served.

Veterans Honored at Margaret Chase Smith Elementary's Annual Breakfast Celebration

November 8, 2024

The gymnasium at Margaret Chase Smith Elementary was filled with pride, gratitude and patriotic spirit Thursday morning as students and staff welcomed dozens of veterans for thei...

The SRTC / SHS annual College and Career Fair took place on November 7th for juniors and seniors in booth schools. This event gives students an opportunity to visit with both employers and institutions as post-secondary options. Students came prepared to ask employers or colleges relevant questions that could impact their future. While this is a major undertaking, this is crucially beneficial to our students. The connections made here could be the groundwork for a career in the future or an opportunity to attend additional training / schooling after high school. To see photos of College and Career Fair prep and of the event itself, click HERE.

SRTC/SHS Career and College Fair Highlights

November 8, 2024

The SRTC / SHS annual Career and College Fair took place on November 7th for juniors and seniors in booth schools. This event gives students an opportunity to visit with both em...

From Student to Mentor: Sanford Alum Creates Broadcasting Opportunities for SRTC Students

November 7, 2024

Every time Andy Austin drives through Sanford, he feels a familiar spark—a connection that's drawn him back to his hometown after a successful broadcasting career that's taken hi...

Video Production seniors thrilled audiences with the premiere of their haunting short films at a special Halloween screening event. Complete with popcorn and special guests, the intimate gathering featured four ambitious student productions: "Echo," "Malaise," "Terror Cards," and "Class Clown." The screening even featured a surprise acting debut from SRTC Director Mr. Petermann, adding to the festive atmosphere of the showcase. Each film demonstrated the technical skill and creative storytelling abilities of the program's senior students. Students transformed the classroom into an impromptu theater for the occasion, creating the perfect backdrop for their spine-tingling productions. The event marked a successful milestone for the Video Production program's emerging filmmakers.

SRTC Video Production Students Showcase Spooky Cinema at Halloween Watch Party

November 6, 2024

Video Production seniors thrilled audiences with the premiere of their haunting short films at a special Halloween screening event. Complete with popcorn and special guests, the i...

Sanford Spotlight Newsletter

November 6, 2024

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

November is alive with the sound of music at Margaret Chase Smith Elementary School as students across all grades explore various instruments in their music classes and clubs. Our youngest musicians in Kindergarten and first grade are developing their rhythm skills with colorful Boomwhackers and percussion instruments. These hands-on experiences help build their musical foundation while having fun making music together. Second graders have an exciting opportunity this year with the Drumming Club. To accommodate the enthusiastic response, seven sessions are planned to ensure every interested student can participate. Moving up to third grade, students are beginning their unit on the glockenspiel, learning to play this melodic percussion instrument. Fourth graders are stretching their musical abilities as they start their ukulele instruction. Our dedicated Ukulele and Chorus Clubs are preparing for upcoming performances. The Chorus will make its debut performance of the school year at the Veterans Breakfast.

Making Music at Margaret Chase Smith

November 5, 2024

November is alive with the sound of music at Margaret Chase Smith Elementary School as students across all grades explore various instruments in their music classes and clubs. Ou...

Alumni Spotlight

November 1, 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...

Students at Sanford Middle School transformed the woods at Gowen Park into a Halloween attraction on Tuesday, October 29th, continuing its annual Haunted Woods event. The event, organized by students in the Jobs for Maine’s Graduates (JMG) program, allows students to experience a real-life example of project planning, leadership, and teamwork. The kids did a fantastic job prepping for the Area 51 Haunts, and the enthusiasm of the volunteer staff is so appreciated. Students begin planning over a month before the event, brainstorming different ideas for the theme. From there, students need to work together to plan each section of the woods, roles, costumes, decorations, and more. The students thought of the idea of a Haunted Walk, and after navigating red tape and a presentation to the school committee, the event was born. “To see all their work result in something that so many people enjoy, they have said it helps them understand what it really means to work as a team in the ‘real work’ and gives them an idea of what people can accomplish when they work together,” said Tara Houle who is Sanford Middle School’s JMG Specialist.

Sanford Middle School's Haunted Woods

November 1, 2024

Students at Sanford Middle School transformed the woods at Gowen Park into a Halloween attraction on Tuesday, October 29th, continuing its annual Haunted Woods event. The event, ...

Community Announcements

November 1, 2024

Are you looking to share your organization’s events and activities with the Sanford school community? The Sanford School Department website offers a Community Announcements page ...

Sanford High School Marching Band Puts on Gold Medal Performance at MBDA State Finals

October 30, 2024

Sanford High School's Marching Band put on a gold medal-winning performance at the Maine Band Directors Association (MBDA) state finals at Alumni Stadium on Saturday, October 26th...

Upcoming Career and College Fair

October 30, 2024

Sanford High School and Regional Technical Center is set to host its annual Career and College Fair on Thursday, November 7th, in Partners Bank Gymnasium, bringing together 80 or...

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@sanford.org) or fill out the employee spotlight form here. This spotlight is on Sanford Middle School teacher Ethan Gouin. How long have you been working in the Sanford School Department? This is my seventh year in Sanford! What’s your favorite part about working in Sanford? I take pride in giving back to the community I grew up in. What’s your favorite TV show or movie? Movie- The Longest Yard TV show- Supernatural If you could describe yourself in three words, what would they be? Passionate, Happy, Optimistic If you could visit any place in the world, where would it be? Italy Iced coffee or hot coffee? Iced coffee Podcasts or Playlists? Playlists Ocean or Lake? Lake Sunset or Sunrise? Sunset Instagram or Facebook? Facebook

Employee Spotlight

October 29, 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...

Carl J. Lamb students just wrapped up the first part of their reading unit about Ancient Asia, and they had such a wonderful time. They recently focused on learning about Diwali, also known as the Festival of Lights. The kids dove right into this special celebration, and their creativity really shined through. Students made their own Diwali-inspired candle light to take home. They were so excited to share what they learned about the holiday with their families. It was heartwarming to see how engaged the students were as they connected their reading lessons to real-world traditions. They not only practiced their reading skills but also learned about different cultures and celebrations around the world.

Carl J. Lamb Students Light Up Learning with Diwali Celebration

October 24, 2024

Carl J. Lamb students just wrapped up the first part of their reading unit about Ancient Asia, and they had such a wonderful time. They recently focused on learning about Diwali,...

SANFORD— Experience the “little-big band” that is defining a new Golden Era of music at Sanford Performing Arts Center. Showtime is 7 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 9. Phat Cat Swinger is the ultimate pop-swing band that brings the vibes of all the favorites. Phat Cat Swinger recasts the sounds and feels of Sinatra, Michael Bublé and Bruno Mars with Big Bad Voodoo Daddy and Brian Setzer. Led by founder Marco Palos and a main feature on The Disneyland Resort stages, this 11-piece powerhouse blends rock, swing, and jazz with modern flair. Their legendary performances bring electrifying energy that will get everyone out of their seats! Tickets are $35–$56, with discounts for subscribers, students, seniors and military veterans. For ticket information, visit sanfordpac.org/phatcat, call the box office at (207) 206-1126, or visit in person Tuesdays and Thursdays between 9 a.m.-noon.

Sanford stage comes out swinging Nov. 9

October 24, 2024

SANFORD— Experience the “little-big band” that is defining a new Golden Era of music at Sanford Performing Arts Center. Showtime is 7 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 9. Phat Cat Swinger ...

Sanford Spotlight Newsletter

October 23, 2024

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

High School Mentors Make Lasting Impact in Sanford Classrooms

SHS Mentors Make Lasting Impact in Sanford Classrooms

October 23, 2024

A number of Sanford High School students are making a significant impact in the elementary and middle schools within the district through a long-standing mentoring program. This...

Sanford Performing Arts Center Announces 2024-2025 Season

October 22, 2024

SANFORD — Audiences are asking, and Sanford Performing Arts Center is answering the call with a stellar new 2024-2025 season lineup. Opening its fifth year on stage, SPAC ha...

Sanford High School’s National Art Honor Society (NAHS) students recently took a field trip to Rockland, led by Ms. Warner and Ms. Quarles. The October 4th event offered students a unique opportunity to experience Maine’s diverse art scene through visits to multiple acclaimed venues. At the Farnsworth Museum, students explored the legacy of the renowned Wyeth family, examining works spanning three generations. They also discovered how Maine’s landscape, particularly Monhegan Island, has influenced numerous local artists. The Center for Maine Contemporary Art (CMCA) provided an interactive experience where students engaged with works by three contemporary artists. Students participated in hands-on art-making activities and meaningful discussions about modern artistic expression. The day concluded with a stop at the historic Olson House in Cushing. While interior access was restricted, students captured photographs of the house and surrounding landscape.

Sanford High School Art Students Explore Maine's Rich Artistic Heritage

October 21, 2024

Sanford High School’s National Art Honor Society (NAHS) students recently took a field trip to Rockland, led by Ms. Warner and Ms. Quarles. The October 4th event offered student...

Three years into its journey, the Walking School Bus Program at Sanford Pride Elementary continues to make strides in building a stronger community and improving attendance. What began as a creative and family-friendly way to ensure students arrive at school safely and on time has blossomed into an engaging morning routine for students, volunteers, and families. Carol Lantagne, the program's coordinator, is there at 7:30 a.m. every morning, always with at least one volunteer. The volunteers meet in the CVS parking lot on Main Street, about a half mile from Sanford Pride Elementary. They begin their route walking opposite the school, taking a right onto Charles Street, then a left at State Street Court. During this route, Lantagne and her volunteer meet students at their households to walk them to the bus stop. On one particular Thursday morning, Sanford Pride's Outreach Coordinator Leah Marks is there with Lantagne, welcoming the students as they make their way towards the bus stop. A key part of the program's success hinges on its volunteers, including staff members from counselors and health teachers to Assistant Principal Kristin Daly. The variety of volunteers brings different perspectives and experiences for the students. Daly noted the improved attendance and a greater connection between students and families as key benefits of the program. This connection with the school has also made it easier for parents to approach Daly, Lantagne or the volunteers with questions or concerns, creating a supportive environment for everyone involved. "Our relationships with parents are awesome," Marks said. The route ends at the corner of State Street and Main Street, where the school bus picks the students up around 7:45 a.m. Lantagne, always thinking of ways to keep students engaged, brings a variety of toys each day. Families from nearby neighborhoods can also bring their children to this intersection, where they get to join in on the fun while waiting for the bus. This flexibility has made the program even more accessible to the community. As the Walking School Bus Program continues to grow and evolve, its impact on the Sanford Pride Elementary community becomes increasingly evident. The program not only ensures that students arrive at school safely and on time but also encourages a sense of community and strengthens the bond between the school and families.

Walking School Bus Program at Sanford Pride Continuing To Thrive

October 18, 2024

Three years into its journey, the Walking School Bus Program at Sanford Pride Elementary continues to make strides in building a stronger community and improving attendance. Wha...

Margaret Chase Smith students participated in Fire Prevention activities. 3rd and 4th graders created home fire escape plans with two exit routes and designated meeting places. Younger students learned the “stop, drop, and roll” technique and how to avoid smoke by staying low. Kindergarteners enjoyed a visit from local firefighters, who gave an engaging presentation on fire safety signs and protective gear. The event gave students valuable knowledge and a close-up look at the important work of firefighters.

Sanford Fire Department Visit Margaret Chase Smith

October 18, 2024

Margaret Chase Smith students participated in Fire Prevention activities. 3rd and 4th graders created home fire escape plans with two exit routes and designated meeting places. ...