Sanford School Department

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September 9, 2024

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Against a backdrop of trophies and awards, the Sanford Schools Legacy Foundation dedicated the Sanford High School Athletic Awards Showcase in honor of Bruce MacKinnon. “It’s an exciting day for us on behalf of the Sanford School Board, the Sanford Schools Legacy Foundation, the City of Sanford and community,” said Matt Nelson, Superintendent of Sanford Public Schools, at the afternoon ceremony. On Wednesday, Sept. 4, stories of Coach MacKinnon “owned” the room, in true Coach MacKinnon style, as player after player shared their memories. “Things Bruce did built respect. When Bruce was coaching us, he commanded the room,” said John Roux, once a standout forward for Coach MacKinnon and later an insurance colleague. “He owned the room, and if you weren’t part of what he was preaching, you were out of the room very quickly. He was intense. It was tough, but it was good, and I really, really respect that.” John Dube recalled Coach’s intense style of coaching, but also the numerous things he did behind the scenes, such as sending him to basketball camps that would have been otherwise not an option for him. “He made me who I am today, he was my second dad,” said Dube, a standout forward for Sanford 1976-1980. The life skills he once taught these boys still remain with his players as men. “It took me years to realize all the lessons you were teaching us,” said former player Mark Caron. “Accountability, discipline and responsibility. So besides all of the other great (basketball) things he taught us, really those three things instilled a lot in my life.” Mr. MacKinnon came to Sanford in 1973 to teach U.S. history. He served as the boys varsity coach from 1973 to 1985, then served as Sanford High School Principal from 1985 to 1993. He also coached golf from 1978 to 1984, and retired from education in 1993 to serve as a state senator for four years. Coach MacKinnon was inducted into the Maine Basketball Hall of Fame in 2023. Sanford Rep. Anne-Marie Mastracchio, who served on the Sanford School Committee when MacKinnon retired, was on hand to offer a congressional commendation on behalf of the Maine House of Representatives and Senate. Bruce MacKinnon’s legacy will live on now over the SHS Athletic Achievement Showcase at the Partner’s Bank Gymnasium at Sanford High School.

Bruce MacKinnon Trophy Case Now Bears The Name of Legendary Sanford Coach

September 6, 2024

Against a backdrop of trophies and awards, the Sanford Schools Legacy Foundation dedicated the Sanford High School Athletic Awards Showcase in honor of Bruce MacKinnon. “It’s an...

The Sanford School Department launched its 2024-2025 school year in the Sanford Performing Arts Center on Wednesday, August 28th, with a powerful message: every student matters, and every adult is important. Carl J. Lamb's Show Choir, under the direction of music teacher Hattie Skvorak, kicked off the morning with an uplifting performance. Thank you to Carl J. Lamb students Breyana Bolduc, Alanna Carter, Olan Clock, Maggie Green, Kinley Martineau, Aoife McGuckin-Welsch, Daisy Peters, Ivy Peters, and Kiara Rohner. Following the performance, School Committee Chair Paula Cote welcomed and thanked staff on behalf of the committee. Superintendent Matt Nelson then welcomed returning staff and new staff joining the Sanford School Department, expressing gratitude for everyone involved in preparing for the opening of school. The Sanford School Department's three pillars for student success – student achievement, school climate and culture, and capacity building – set the stage for introducing the goals for the upcoming school year. In addition to the goals, school safety was emphasized as a continuing priority for the Sanford School Department. Mr. Nelson stressed the importance of engagement, prioritizing relationships, and encouraging staff to focus on making strong connections with students, colleagues, and families. He highlighted that these meaningful relationships help form the foundation for effective teaching and learning, creating an environment where students feel valued and motivated to succeed. Staff were also encouraged to "adjust their lens" heading into the 2024-2025 school year when facing new challenges to see the positives in their work. This adaptability ties with the district's focus on "spotlighting-the-right" and building strong relationships with students, families, and the community. The presentation concluded with a powerful metaphor: the dash between birth and death years on a tombstone. Staff were posed a thought-provoking question: "What does your dash stand for?" This dash, it was explained, represents the sum of one's work and the impact of their daily actions. Mr. Nelson emphasized that one's legacy is measured by every life they touch. Relating this concept to the upcoming 2024-2025 school year, it was framed as the School Department's collective dash. Their shared goal is to ensure that students are healthy, safe, engaged, supported, challenged, and prepared.

Sanford School Department Kicks Off 2024-2025 Year with Focus on Student Value and Staff Impact

August 30, 2024

The Sanford School Department launched its 2024-2025 school year in the Sanford Performing Arts Center on Wednesday, August 28th, with a powerful message: every student matters, ...

Sanford High School Kaitlyn Gardner (Admin Assistant to the Principal) Michael Gauthier (Physics Teacher), Matthew Guertin (Math Teacher), Linden Hollins (Chemistry/Physics Teacher), Anna Silva (Social Studies Teacher), Charlene Foss (SpEd Tech), Megan Kiley (Virtual Learning Ed Tech), Matthew Ouellette (Support and Transition Ed Tech) Sanford Middle School Abigail Hanson (6th Grade Teacher), Joshua Hyssong (Instructional Band Teacher), Deborah Leclerc (Seal Team) Sanford Regional Technical Center Shawnda Williams (Health Occupations Teacher), Jenna Holmes (Health Occupations Teacher) Carl J. Lamb Beth Baldarelli (SpEd-Self Contained Teacher), Holly Brown (2nd Grade Teacher), Denise Bergeron (SpEd Ed Tech), Jessica Harmon (Self-Contained Ed Tech), Laurie Morse (K Literacy Ed Tech), Alethea Pettine (Library Ed Tech), Aaliyah Studer (SpEd Ed Tech) Margaret Chase Smith Ayla Alrich (3rd Grade Teacher), Pamela Legere (1st Grade Teacher), Taylor Nygren (4th Grade Teacher), Lee Paula Perkins (4th Grade Teacher), Ashley Brochu (Self Contained Ed Tech), Angela Kepner (K Literacy Ed Tech), Suzi MacDonald (Behavior Ed Tech) Sanford Pride Lindsey Jenkins (1st Grade Teacher), Haley Kennedy (3rd Grade Teacher), Makenzie Smith (Art Teacher) BRIDGE Eric Stephens (Social Studies Teacher), Sara Tremblay (Ed Tech)

Sanford School Department Welcomes New Teachers at Orientation

August 28, 2024

The Sanford School Department kicked off the new academic year with a bang, hosting a comprehensive and engaging orientation day for its newest teachers in the district at Sanfor...

Sanford High School Athletics Hall of Honor Committee Announces First Class of Inductees

August 23, 2024

After months of deliberation, The Sanford High School Athletics Hall of Honor Committee (established in 2023) is pleased to announce its first class of inductees. These nine induc...

Bus Transportation for the 2024-2025 School Year

August 21, 2024

Welcome to the 2024-2025 school Year! The 2024-2025 bus routes for the Sanford School Department are now available on Versatrans . On Wednesday, August 21th, emails were sen...

SPAC 'proud' to present Tina Turner tribute Aug. 21

August 13, 2024

SANFORD — Experience the electrifying energy of Tina Turner live with this sensational stage production, "Proud Tina"! Relive the magic of Tina’s greatest hits from the '60s, '7...

https://students.arbitersports.com/sanford-high-school-and-middle-school/sanford-middle-school-athletic-registration-fall-2024

Fall Sports Registration for Sanford High School and Sanford Middle School

August 6, 2024

Sanford High School and Middle School Fall sports seasons are approaching quickly. High school sports start Monday, August 19th. Middle school sports will start during the firs...

Maine Counselor Shares Expertise on Suicide Prevention and Group Counseling at National Conference

Sanford Middle School Counselor Shares Expertise on Suicide Prevention and Group Counseling at National Conference

July 30, 2024

Sanford Middle School Counseling Department Head Angela Avery recently took center stage at the American School Counselor Association (ASCA) national conference in Kansas City, Mi...

Ribbon Cutting Ceremony Marks Increased Partnership With YMCA And Sanford School Department

July 25, 2024

The Sanford-Springvale YMCA held its ribbon-cutting and open house on Tuesday, July 23rd, for its newly expanded childcare facility with Governor Janet Mills in attendance. The...

SANFORD, Maine, – The Sanford School Department is pleased to announce the appointment of Kristy Richards as the new Assistant Principal of Carl J. Lamb Elementary School, effective July 29, 2024. The selection committee was impressed by the pool of applicants, but Ms. Richards' background, experience, and commitment to student success and school improvement set her apart as the best fit for the Carl J. Lamb community. Richards is no stranger to Sanford. She is a graduate of Sanford High School and has served the Sanford School Department in a variety of positions. She will succeed Trish Leet, who retired at the end of the 2023-2024 school year. "Kristy is well-suited for this important leadership position. Her knowledge, leadership skills and ability to build strong relationships are a great fit for Carl J. Lamb School" said Matt Nelson, Superintendent of Sanford Schools. "She is well-respected, and her in-depth knowledge of student behavior, effective intervention strategies, and special education will serve Kristy well in her new role." Kristy holds a Certificate of Advanced Study with a concentration in RTI (Behavior) from the University of Maine, a Master of Science in Education from the University of Southern Maine, focusing on Administration, and certifications for Building Principal, Assistant Principal, and Assistant Special Education Director. She spent 16 years as a Special Education self-contained teacher, followed by three years as a Special Education resource room teacher at Carl J. Lamb School, and most recently, 6.5 years as an elementary behavior coach. "I am honored to join Carl J. Lamb Elementary School as Assistant Principal" said Richards. "I share the school's commitment to developing the whole child and fostering a strong community. By setting high academic standards, addressing social-emotional needs, and building strong relationships among staff, students, and families, we can create an environment where every child thrives. I look forward to collaborating with the Carl J. Lamb team to build on our strengths and create new opportunities for success." The Sanford School Department would like to congratulate Kristy Richards on her new role and continued dedication to Carl J. Lamb Elementary School and its students.

Kristy Richards Named New Assistant Principal at Carl J. Lamb Elementary School

July 23, 2024

SANFORD, Maine – The Sanford School Department is pleased to announce the appointment of Kristy Richards as the new Assistant Principal of Carl J. Lamb Elementary School, effecti...

Tracy Gibson Named New Principal at Sanford High School

July 18, 2024

SANFORD, Maine – The Sanford School Department is pleased to announce the appointment of Tracy Gibson as the new Principal of Sanford High School, effective July 22, 2024. During...

SANFORD — Following the fantastic audience response to last season’s “100 Years of Broadway,” creator Neil Berg returns with an all-new show! Showtime is 7 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 3, at the Sanford Performing Arts Center. "101 Years of Broadway" is a sprawling revue of treasures from the best-loved musicals of all time. A stellar assembly of Broadway’s finest performers takes center stage, delivering electrifying show-stoppers from the musicals that defined their careers. Neil Berg and his accomplished band deliver exquisite arrangements. From the classics to the newest hit shows, 101 Years of Broadway is an unforgettable evening of music that will keep Broadway buffs in a state of bliss for weeks to come! Tickets for adults range in price from $29 to $49, with discounts for subscribers, students, seniors and military veterans. This performance was originally scheduled for April 6, 2024, and was postponed due to weather. Tickets for the April 6 date will be honored at the August 3 performance. Call the box office at (207) 206-1126, or visit in person Tuesdays and Thursdays from 9 a.m.-noon. Online ticketing is available 24/7 at www.sanfordpac.org.

Broadway classics on stage in Sanford

July 15, 2024

SANFORD — Following the fantastic audience response to last season’s “100 Years of Broadway,” creator Neil Berg returns with an all-new show! Showtime is 7 p.m. Saturday, Aug...

Sanford Regional Technical Center recently hosted an exciting and educational Middle School Summer Camp, bringing together students from its sending schools for a week of hands-on learning and new experiences. Campers from Kittery, York, Wells, Marshwood, Noble, Kennebunk, Sanford, and Massabesic gathered to explore various Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs offered at SRTC. The camp provided seven diverse program options, allowing students to dive into potential career paths and discover new interests. The available programs included: Plumbing Carpentry Aviation Digital Design Early Childhood Education Law Enforcement Firefighting Throughout the week, campers engaged in practical activities and learned valuable skills related to their chosen programs. The hands-on approach allowed students to gain insight into these professions and sparked curiosity about potential future careers. One of the highlights of the camp was the chance for students to make new friends from different schools in the area. This social aspect of the camp fostered connections and helped build a sense of community among young learners interested in similar fields.

Sanford Regional Technical Center's Summer Camp was a hit!

July 8, 2024

Sanford Regional Technical Center recently hosted an exciting and educational Middle School Summer Camp, bringing together students from its sending schools for a week of hands-o...

Sanford Spotlight Newsletter

June 28, 2024

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

Sanford Middle Schooler Josh Fogarty was recently named the recipient of the Eighth Grade Secretary of State Citizenship Award. The award program is an annual effort designed to honor Maine students for their civic awareness, scholastic achievements and community service. In 2024, 116 schools recognized an eighth grader for outstanding citizenship qualities. This award seeks to inspire students to become active citizens.

Sanford Middle School 8th Grader Wins State Citizenship Award

June 24, 2024

Sanford Middle Schooler Josh Fogarty was recently named the recipient of the Eighth Grade Secretary of State Citizenship Award. The award program is an annual effort designed...

Two Sanford School Department staff members stepped onto the baseball diamond to receive recognition. On Monday, June 17th, Dennis Wilson, the school department's technology support specialist for elementary schools, took center stage at Goodall Park. As part of the Sanford Mainers' Education Week celebration, Wilson was given the honor of throwing out the first pitch before the game. The following day, June 18th, saw another Sanford staff member in the spotlight, this time at Hadlock Field, home of the Portland Sea Dogs. Cheryl Gifford, a Jobs for Maine's Graduates (JMG) Specialist at Sanford High School, joined fellow JMG Specialists from across the state in a special recognition ceremony. The group was honored for their exceptional work on the Maine Career Exploration Badge, a program designed to help students navigate potential career paths. Gifford's moment in the sun included throwing out a first pitch before the Sea Dogs game. She also received a personalized Portland Sea Dogs jersey.

Sanford Staff Members Take the Mound: A Double Play of Recognition

June 24, 2024

Two Sanford School Department staff members stepped onto the baseball diamond to receive recognition. On Monday, June 17th, Dennis Wilson, the school department's technology supp...

Sanford High School juniors Brooklynn Verdejo and James Allen-Chaplick were recently named state recipients of the Horatio Alger Scholarship. Out of just five students chosen from across the entire state of Maine, Sanford High School had an impressive two winners. The Horatio Alger Scholarship is one of the most coveted awards for high school students in the United States. It recognizes young people who have demonstrated incredible determination and perseverance in overcoming significant adversity in their lives.

SHS Juniors Recipients of Horatio Alger Scholarship

June 20, 2024

Sanford High School juniors Brooklynn Verdejo and James Allen-Chaplick were recently named state recipients of the Horatio Alger Scholarship. Out of just five students chosen fro...

Carl J. Lamb held its annual "CJL's Got Talent" on the last day of school. This past May, second, third, and fourth graders had the exciting opportunity to audition and showcase their unique skills and talents. The audition process was competitive, with students putting their best foot forward across various performance categories. From powerful singing voices to intricate dance routines to hilarious comedy acts, the panel of judges was thoroughly impressed by the talents on display. After the audition round, rehearsals kicked into high gear. The chosen performers worked tirelessly to polish their acts, all in preparation for the big show on the last day of school. Finally, the day arrived for CJL's Got Talent to take the stage. An enthusiastic audience of first through fourth graders packed the school auditorium, buzzing with excitement. One by one, the student performers stormed the stage with confidence. The acts did not disappoint. They delivered a spectacular variety show, and the audience frequently erupted in cheers, laughter, and applause.

Carl J. Lamb's Got Talent

June 17, 2024

Carl J. Lamb held its annual "CJL's Got Talent" on the last day of school. This past May, second, third, and fourth graders had the exciting opportunity to audition and showcase...

"Go do good things." Advice from a father to his graduating daughter decades ago became a message for adult learners as they celebrated their own educational milestone. Jayne Perkins, Director of Sanford Community Adult Education, passed on her father's words of wisdom at SCAE's graduation ceremony, urging the Class of 2024 to carry this simple yet powerful message into their futures on Wednesday, June 12th, in the school’s library. "You are examples of what hard work and determination can do," she said. "Do not stop now. Keep working. Keep pushing yourself forward. Lead by example." Superintendent Matt Nelson opened the ceremony with words of welcome. He highlighted the Class of 2024's ability "to do hard things." The students graduating on Wednesday had each taken different paths, embraced obstacles, and tackled challenges. "Everyone has a story," Nelson said. "And the stories of our graduates tonight are some of the best stories with some of the happiest endings." Following Nelson's remarks and Pledge of Allegiance, SCAE graduates Alina Randall and Savana Summers took the podium to give speeches on their journeys. Randall recognized the challenges each student had to face and overcome in her speech. "Our journey has been anything but easy," Randall said. "It has been a testament to the resilience, determination, and unwavering spirit of perseverance." Summers discussed her struggles growing up and how her life changed when she became a mother. She knew she had to rewrite her story entirely and said returning to school to earn her HiSet wasn't just a goal but a mission. It was an opportunity to pave a new path for her and her family. "I had to become the person my children look up to," she said. "I was focused not only for my family, but also to pursue my dream of becoming a cosmetologist." Following student speeches, Perkins and Operations Manager Lisa Merlin presented scholarships to students. Caitlyn Beane, Randall, and Paul Peck received scholarships generously donated by Senior College and Sanford-Springvale Rotary. Summers received the Patricia A. Hughes Scholarship, given by the Maine Adult Education Association to students who seek to further their education beyond high school. Peck received another scholarship donated from Central Maine Community College. Peck, Beane, Randall, Summers, Brett Smith, Elliot Osmer, Aubrey Robinson, Christian King, Shantell Johnson, and Kaydynce Dunlap also received scholarships donated by the University of Maine at Augusta. Summers also received a special scholarship from Mainely Characters, donated by Ed Gardner and Marsha Weston, who are both on the organization's Board of Directors. State Office Representative Pamela Buck then spoke to deliver a comment from U.S. Senator Susan Collins. "The diploma each of you receive is proof of your ability to discipline yourself, to set clear goals, and drive towards those goals," Collins said in a statement. Congratulations to the following graduates: Caitlyn Beane, Thomas Bereshny, Stephen Briggs, Ryan Conley, Logan Delzell, Kaydynce Dunlap, Aidden Hayward, Chloe Hilton, Shantell Johnson, Christian King, Isaac Millington, McKenzie Nell, Elliot Osmer, Joshua Ouellette, Paul Peck, Alina Randall, Deshaun Severe, Brett Smith, Jordan Stuart, Savana Summers, John Ward, and Ann-Marie Varnell.

'Go Do Good Things': SCAE Graduates Embark on New Journeys

June 14, 2024

"Go do good things." Advice from a father to his graduating daughter decades ago became a message for adult learners as they celebrated their own educational milestone. Jayne ...