Sanford School Department

The fall testing window for NWEA assessments has officially started. We want to share some important information about a tool we use to help your child learn better. Here's what you need to know: What is NWEA testing? NWEA testing is a way for us to measure how well your child is learning. It's like taking your child's educational temperature to see where they're doing well and where they might need extra help. Why is it important? Personalized learning: These tests help teachers understand what your child knows and what they're ready to learn next. Tracking progress: We can see how your child grows over time, not just how they compare to others. Improving our teaching: The results help us make our lessons better for all students. When does testing happen? For grades 3-8 and 10: The Maine Department of Education has chosen NWEA as the state test. For grades K-2 and 9: Sanford School Department uses NWEA to keep consistent data. Fall testing: October 2-27. Your child's school will let you know the exact dates. What happens after the tests? We'll share the results at a school committee meeting in November. Teachers will use this information to help your child learn better. We'll use the data to improve our overall teaching and curriculum. Have questions or concerns? We're here to help! You can: Talk to your child's teacher Contact the curriculum office at 207-324-2810

NWEA Testing

September 23, 2024

The fall testing window for NWEA assessments has officially started. We want to share some important information about a tool we use to help your child learn better. Here's what ...

Sanford High School's marching band is tuning up for another exciting season, blending tradition with innovation under the guidance of Music Director Hailey Francoeur. With a strong emphasis on community engagement and student leadership, the band is marching toward new heights in 2024. The marching band is in the Maine Band Directors Association Circuit. The schedule for the circuit consists of five regular season shows – all scheduled on Saturday nights – and a Maine Marching Band Finals, which will be held at Sanford High School on October 26th. "Sanford always seems to be a favorite spot to go for everybody," Francoeur noted The band's first performance of the season was at Wells High School on Saturday, September 14th, which exceeded Francoeur's standards. "We got three stars out of five in all of our captions, which was really good," Francoeur shared. "It was a really good turnout. The students had a lot of energy ... They were pretty pumped after that." They will travel to Lawrence (September 28th), Westbrook (October 5th), and Marshwood (October 19th) before hosting the finals. The band graduated "a ton of seniors" in 2024, according to Francouer, but there are still nearly 60 members in the band this year. One of the band's members, senior Quang Lam, said he'd seen incremental growth in the program since he came into the program. "We've grown a lot. We had so many people last year and again this year compared to when I started," Lam said. "I've also seen a bunch of really talented players that are very experienced, smart, quick on their feet. It's just cool to see that progress as I go through my career." Behind the scenes, students put in extra effort to perfect their performances. Before one rehearsal, Lam was working with the band's brass section to help them refine their parts. He explained, "We were just kind of practicing our music before we have the actual sectional, just to kind of fine-tune some specific details that we need to focus on, that we can't really get in a rehearsal where there's a lot of other things going on." This dedication extends beyond just musical practice, as many band members take pride in mentoring younger students. Junior band member Lydia Treadwell shared her perspective on this aspect of band leadership: "I'm looking forward to seeing these younger musicians grow into the skilled musicians that they already are. But also, really encouraging that space of discipline, and just like a whole passion for marching band as a whole, and looking forward to seeing that transformation by the end of this season." "If we didn't have marching band, I probably wouldn't have loved music as much as I do. This is one of the big things that I do in the Music Department," she added. "Especially just seeing those underclassmen, seeing where we were before, and we know how they're going through right now, and we know how to help them." The band's strong student leadership team is key to its success. Upperclassmen are crucial in mentoring newer members, helping with everything from daily warm-ups to prop management. "Those student leaders really help a lot with how rehearsals get started," Francoeur explained, emphasizing the importance of peer support in an activity where every band member is important. As the season progresses, audiences can expect to see the show evolve. "We haven't put our closer out on the field yet," Francoeur revealed. The band plans to introduce more props, music, and visual elements to enhance their performance and storytelling as they approach the state finals.

Sanford High School's Marching Band Off To Strong Start in 2024

September 23, 2024

Sanford High School's marching band is tuning up for another exciting season, blending tradition with innovation under the guidance of Music Director Hailey Francoeur. With a str...

Critical Information about Mosquito-Borne Illnesses

September 20, 2024

The Maine Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Maine Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry (DACF) have reported an elevated risk of mosquito-bor...

As the new school year got underway, the Sanford School Department welcomed students and staff to clean, safe, and well-prepared facilities, thanks to the efforts of our custodial and facilities team over the summer months. The Sanford School Department oversees an impressive array of facilities, including ten buildings that required management for cleaning, maintenance, and grounds care. These facilities encompassed a total of 634,000 square feet of building space and spanned 262 acres of land. At the heart of our school preparation efforts was our hardworking custodial team who took center stage this summer, undertaking a comprehensive cleaning of all facilities. Their work went far beyond routine maintenance, involving a process that touched every corner of our schools. Staff moved and cleaned furniture, washed lights, walls, and windows, and conducted necessary room repairs. One of their most significant tasks was scrubbing and refinishing floors throughout the buildings, ensuring a fresh and welcoming environment for returning students and staff. The custodial team faced and overcame challenges during their summer work. They navigated scheduling conflicts with summer programming and demonstrated remarkable flexibility in adapting to last-minute changes. While the custodial staff focused on deep cleaning, our maintenance team was equally busy with crucial projects. They replaced the boiler at Willard School, installed new doors in the SMS Library and main stairwell, and added climate control to the SPE Library. Other notable projects included: Installing playground equipment at Margaret Chase Smith School. Setting up an entry heater at Carl J Lamb School. Implementing sound deadening measures at Sanford High School Our grounds care responsibilities expanded this year to include mowing and maintaining Sanford High School sports fields. This new task totaled 20 additional hours of work and was efficiently managed with the addition of a part-time seasonal staff member. The combined efforts of our custodial, maintenance, and grounds staff ensured that Sanford schools were clean and safe and enhanced and improved for the new academic year. As students and staff returned, they found their spaces ready and welcoming, setting the stage for a successful year of learning and growth. Thank you to our Facilities and Maintenance teams!

Sanford Schools Shine: Custodial and Facilities Teams Prepare for New School Year

September 19, 2024

As the new school year got underway, the Sanford School Department welcomed students and staff to clean, safe, and well-prepared facilities, thanks to the efforts of our custodia...

On Tuesday, September 17, Margaret Chase Smith Elementary School buzzed with excitement as it kicked off its participation in the Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program (FFVP). The kick-off event took place in the MCS cafeteria at 11:00 a.m., serving as an introduction to the program for students. Students learned about FFVP and its benefits for their health and academic performance. “At the kickoff event students were excited to share feedback around their strawberry snack,” said David Boger, who is the School Nutrition Program Director for the Sanford School Department. “Students were overwhelmingly in favor of the sweet, juicy berries.” The Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program, a federally assisted initiative, provides free fresh fruits and vegetables to children at eligible elementary schools. This U.S. The Department of Agriculture program aims to improve children's overall diet and create healthier eating habits that impact their present and future well-being. Thanks to this new partnership, all 380 students at MCS are now invited to enjoy a daily fresh fruit or vegetable snack provided in their classrooms by the nutrition team throughout the entire school year. With the addition of Margaret Chase Smith to the program, all elementary schools in the district are now participating in FFVP. This means every elementary student in the district will receive a fresh fruit or vegetable snack daily between breakfast and lunch service.

Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program Kick-Off at Margaret Chase Smith

September 18, 2024

On Tuesday, September 17, Margaret Chase Smith Elementary School buzzed with excitement as it kicked off its participation in the Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program (FFVP). The ...

Fall Athletic Schedules and Streaming

September 18, 2024

Are you looking to attend a Sanford High School or Middle School athletic event? Follow this link for the daily athletic schedules for both schools: https://www.mpaschedules...

How long have you been working in the Sanford School Department? This is my 7th year. What's your favorite part about working in Sanford? I love being involved and giving back to the wonderful community of Sanford where my kids and I live. What's your favorite TV show or movie? Currently - The Chosen If you could describe yourself in three words, what would they be? Positive, loving, hardworking If you could visit any place in the world, where would it be? Europe Iced coffee or hot coffee? Iced coffee Lake or Ocean? Ocean Sunrise or Sunset? Sunrise Facebook or Instagram? Instagram

Employee Spotlight

September 17, 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...

Sanford Spotlight Newsletter

September 12, 2024

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

Fruit and Vegetable Program

September 12, 2024

All three of Sanford’s elementary schools were awarded a Fresh Fruit & Vegetable Program (FFVP) USDA grant for the 2024-25 school year. The grant is administered through the Main...

Attendance Awareness

September 11, 2024

September is Attendance Awareness Month, a time for individuals and organizations to learn about attendance issues and absenteeism. The Sanford School Department recognizes th...

Stay informed with news and updates by downloading the Sanford School Department app on your mobile device. The app allows parents to choose the school(s) they want to get notifications from. You can access the live feed, see sports schedules, check out the dining menu, access important documents, receive emergency notifications, and more. Just look up Sanford School Department, ME, in your app store.

Download the School's District Mobile App!

September 9, 2024

Stay informed with news and updates by downloading the Sanford School Department app on your mobile device. The app allows parents to choose the school(s) they want to get notifi...

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...