Sanford School Department

U.S. Navy Sea Chanters stop by Sanford March 5

February 27, 2026

SANFORD — Don’t miss this unforgettable evening with The Navy Band Sea Chanters, the U.S. Navy’s premier chorus, performing a FREE concert at the Sanford Performing Arts Center ...

Sanford Regional Technical Center culinary students made their mark this week, competing for the first time in the Maine State ProStart Competition. The milestone event brought together students from career and technical education centers across the state to showcase their culinary skills and hospitality management knowledge in front of industry judges. SRTC joined fellow competitors from Biddeford Regional Center of Technology and Westbrook Regional Vocational Center, with all three programs earning praise from judges for their impressive performances. Capital Area Technical Center took top honors and will advance to the National ProStart Invitational in Baltimore, Maryland, representing Maine on the national stage. For SRTC culinary students, this first-ever appearance at the state competition marks an exciting chapter for the program. As the saying goes in competition — participating is winning — and these students demonstrated that the future of hospitality in Maine is in good hands.

Sanford Regional Technical Center Culinary Students Compete in ProStart Maine State Competition

February 26, 2026

Sanford Regional Technical Center culinary students made their mark this week, competing for the first time in the Maine State ProStart Competition. The milestone event brought t...

Sanford Spotlight Newsletter

February 26, 2026

Check out the latest Sanford Spotlight Newsletter below!

Sanford Middle School's Doctor Who Club has quickly become one of the most popular after-school activities this year and the enthusiasm speaks for itself. The club got its start during the 2024-2025 school year by sixth-grade teacher Abby Hanson, a longtime Doctor Who fan who wanted to share something she loved with her students during her first year of teaching. After showing the British sci-fi series in class, the response was hard to ignore. "I got 10-plus kids interested right away," she said, "So I was like, okay, I'll start it." The club launched with around 15 members and has since doubled this year. I have 30 students signed up,” Hanson said. Every Tuesday after dismissal until 4 p.m., members get together to watch episodes of Doctor Who in order. Hanson brings a lot to the table beyond just hitting play. She keeps the conversation going with discussions about plot, storytelling, and production history, drawing on her deep knowledge of the show's behind-the-scenes world. "We talk about how the show has had an influence on sci-fi, whether it's film, television, or literature," she explained. "Doctor Who has had a huge influence, and the kids are really into exploring that." One of the best things about the club is that no prior knowledge of Doctor Who is required. Some students came in already familiar with the show, while others were discovering it for the first time. Either way, the welcoming atmosphere and the excitement of watching together has been enough to get everyone invested. The students are clearly hooked. Sixth-grader Zoey Bolduc, returning for her second year, was one of the kids who pushed for the club to exist in the first place. After Hanson introduced the show in class, Zoey thought it was a no-brainer. "I told her that she should make a club about this. I thought that would be really cool." Now, her favorite part is simple: "Mostly just hanging out, watching Doctor Who, and talking about the show." Fellow member, sixth-grader, Ana Grant, put it best: "The show is very fun,” Grant said. “You can't look away, because you're going to miss whatever's happening."

Doctor Who Club at Sanford Middle School Keeps Growing

February 25, 2026

Sanford Middle School's Doctor Who Club has quickly become one of the most popular after-school activities this year and the enthusiasm speaks for itself. The club got its start ...

Sanford Middle School Celebrates the Great Kindness Challenge

February 25, 2026

Sanford Middle School recently wrapped up a wonderful week of kindness. Students and staff participated in the Great Kindness Challenge, a national movement that empowers students...

Seventh graders at Sanford Middle School recently wrapped up a meaningful interdisciplinary unit on the Holocaust, and they finished it in a pretty memorable way. Over the past several weeks, students have been exploring this important chapter in history through both their social studies and ELA classes. The two courses worked hand-in-hand to give students a well-rounded understanding of the Holocaust — from the historical facts and context to the deeply human stories behind them. To bring it all home, students had the chance to experience something truly special: a live performance by Russell Kaback called 25044: A Musical Story of Resilience. In the show, Kaback shares the story of his own grandfather, a Holocaust survivor, through music and storytelling. It's the kind of performance that sticks with you, and for our 7th graders, it served as a powerful capstone to everything they'd been learning in the classroom. We're proud of our students for engaging so thoughtfully with such a significant and weighty topic, and grateful to performers like Russell Kaback for keeping these important stories alive.

Sanford Middle School 7th Graders Wrap Up Holocaust Learning Unit

February 24, 2026

Seventh graders at Sanford Middle School recently wrapped up a meaningful interdisciplinary unit on the Holocaust, and they finished it in a pretty memorable way. Over the past se...

Exciting Changes to Early Childhood Special Education Services

February 23, 2026

February 23, 2026 Dear Sanford Families: We are writing to share exciting news about an important change coming to early childhood special education services in Sanford. Effecti...

Margaret Chase Smith Third Graders Bring Roman Myths to Life at Learning Showcase

February 20, 2026

Margaret Chase Smith third graders recently welcomed families to a special Learning Showcase highlighting their incredible work from their Roman Myths unit. Students transforme...

Sanford Regional Technical Center took center stage at the Maine State Capitol in Augusta during the week of February 9, 2026, as part of a statewide celebration of Career and Technical Education (CTE) Month. SRTC was among the southern and coastal Maine schools featured on February 12 at the Hall of Flags, a multi-day event that brought together CTE programs from all 27 of Maine's CTE schools, along with community college partners, SkillsUSA, FFA, and other supporters. The gathering gave students, educators, and school leaders the chance to connect with legislators, industry partners, and members of the public through hands-on demonstrations and conversations about the power of career and technical education. A highlight of the day was a speech delivered by SRTC Director Matt Petermann, who addressed Maine leaders and distinguished guests on behalf of the state's CTE community. Petermann celebrated the growth of CTE across Maine — enrollment has now surpassed 11,300 students statewide, the highest number ever recorded — while also making the case for continued investment in programs like SRTC. "CTE connects classroom learning to real careers, builds essential skills, and opens doors to family-sustaining wages right here in Maine," Petermann said. "Many of these CTE schools are the lifeblood of their regions and communities." Petermann used his time at the podium to advocate directly with legislators on issues that hit close to home for schools like SRTC, including new pathways to bring experienced industry professionals into the classroom as teachers, and the urgent need to update aging facilities to meet modern, industry-standard expectations. "When you invest in CTE, you're investing in Maine's workforce, Maine's communities, and Maine's future," Petermann said. "Our students are those workers." SRTC's presence at the Hall of Flags was a proud moment for the Sanford community — a reminder that the work happening here every day is making a real difference for students and for Maine's workforce as a whole. Whether students leave SRTC heading into a career, an apprenticeship, or higher education, the skills and confidence they build here follow them every step of the way.

Sanford Regional Technical Center Represented at Hall of Flags

February 19, 2026

Sanford Regional Technical Center took center stage at the Maine State Capitol in Augusta during the week of February 9, 2026, as part of a statewide celebration of Career and Tec...

On Friday, February 13, the Sanford High School Chamber Singers were invited to perform and record with nationally recognized composer Jennifer Lucy Cook in Portland at the Crewe Center for the Arts, Osher School of Music at the University of Southern Maine. Jennifer Lucy Cook is a nationally recognized composer and lyricist whose choral works are performed by high school, collegiate, and professional ensembles across the United States. Based in Los Angeles, her music is widely published and admired for its expressive storytelling, lyrical depth, and contemporary voice within today's choral landscape. In addition to her choral writing, she is also active in stage and screen composition, making her one of today's most versatile and in-demand living composers. During this collaboration, Sanford students recorded three of Cook's choral works, including two performed independently by the Sanford Chamber Singers, and one combined piece alongside the Brunswick High School Chamber Choir, Scarborough High School Chamber Singers, and the Osher School of Music Chamber Singers. Working directly with the composer provided students with invaluable artistic insight and professional-level rehearsal and recording experience.

Sanford Chamber Singers Record with Nationally Recognized Composer in Portland

February 17, 2026

On Friday, February 13, the Sanford High School Chamber Singers were invited to perform and record with nationally recognized composer Jennifer Lucy Cook in Portland at the Crewe ...

Children's Author Visits Sanford Fourth Graders

February 12, 2026

Fourth grade students at Margaret Chase Smith, Carl J. Lamb, and Sanford Pride Elementary Schools were treated to a visit from children's author Frank Cole, who shared his journey...

Sanford High School Basketball Teams Poised For Deep Playoff Run

February 11, 2026

The Sanford High School basketball programs are peaking at the perfect time. Both teams wrapped up exceptional regular seasons and now turn their attention to playoff runs with ch...

https://www.wmtw.com/article/weather-at-your-school-margaret-chase-smith-school-2026/70303132

WMTW Weather at Your School Visits Margaret Chase Smith

February 10, 2026

WMTW Meteorologist Victoria Wisniewski visited Margaret Chase Smith Elementary this morning for a 'Weather at Your School' segment. Check out the segment at this link: https://www...

Billy Joel Tribute Concert on Feb. 28

February 9, 2026

SANFORD — Backed by a driving rock quintet and a lush string quartet, Joe Boucher re-imagines Billy Joel’s greatest hits in concert, this time at the Sanford Performing Arts Cent...

Margaret Chase Smith Second Graders Share Greek Mythology Showcase with Third Grade Audience

February 9, 2026

Second grade students at Margaret Chase Smith recently took center stage as authors and presenters, hosting a special learning showcase for their third grade peers. The event feat...

In its first year, the Sports Medicine program at Sanford Regional Technical Center is opening multiple career pathways at once. Whether students ultimately pursue athletic training, physical therapy, occupational therapy, or another healthcare profession, they're building the same essential foundation: anatomy knowledge, injury assessment skills, and real-world clinical experience across diverse healthcare settings. The two-year program combines classroom instruction with authentic clinical experiences that prepare students for competitive healthcare programs. Students learn anatomy and physiology, emergency management, injury prevention and assessment, acute care, basic rehabilitation, and safe return-to-play practices. The curriculum develops critical thinking skills, professional documentation, and communication abilities through both classroom activities and on-field observations. Bella McCall, a senior from Sanford High School, is part of the program's first class. "I wasn't planning on doing an SRTC program until my junior year when I heard that the Sports Medicine program was going to be added," McCall shared. "I am happy that I get the opportunity to be a part of the first year of the class!" The hands-on experiences extend well beyond observation. In the classroom and lab setting, students practice injury evaluation, taping, splinting, basic wound care, suturing, casting, CPR, and first aid. McCall particularly enjoys these practical activities. "I get to learn anatomy to prepare me for college and participate in some cool hands-on activities," she explained. "For example, we learned how to cast on each other's arms and legs. We all signed each other's casts and brought them home." Students also work with instructor Jessie Giordano covering athletic events and shadow professionals at area schools, hospitals, and physical therapy clinics. These real-world clinical opportunities allow students to connect classroom concepts to actual patient care situations, building confidence before they enter college programs. McCall plans to pursue Exercise Science next year "with the hopes of becoming a physical or occupational therapist." All students earn CPR and First Aid certifications and have the opportunity to complete a three-credit dual enrollment Anatomy and Physiology course through a local college. These credentials provide a strong foundation for future healthcare education. Giordano, a Certified Athletic Trainer with 16 years of experience at Sanford High School and MaineHealth, brings extensive expertise to the program. In 2025, she received the Bill Cox Service Award, which recognizes athletic trainers in Maine for enhanced healthcare delivery and significant contributions to the profession. She continues practicing as an athletic trainer, providing coverage for local schools and state tournaments. For Giordano, transitioning from clinical work to classroom teaching has been an adjustment, but a rewarding one. "This is the first time in my life teaching in a classroom setting," she said. Still, watching her students grow has reignited her passion for the field. "The connection between the content in the classroom and being able to see it on actual athletes on field during games is so rewarding to see."

SRTC Program Highlight: Sports Medicine

February 6, 2026

In its first year, the Sports Medicine program at Sanford Regional Technical Center is opening multiple career pathways at once. Whether students ultimately pursue athletic traini...

New Interact Club Makes Impact in First Year at Sanford High School

February 5, 2026

Students from Sanford High School rang bells outside stores during the holidays, served Thanksgiving dinner to veterans, and read to elementary students all as part of a brand-new...

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Sanford Spotlight Newsletter

February 5, 2026

Check out the latest Sanford Spotlight newsletter below!

The Sanford School Department has released its State of the Schools report, providing families and community members with a comprehensive look at the district's students, staff, programs, facilities, and services that support student success from Pre-K to Adult Education. Click here to access the State of the Schools report. The report includes detailed information about enrollment, demographics, staffing, student achievement, operations, and funding for one of the largest school districts in York county and the state of Maine. It celebrates successes while acknowledging ongoing challenges and the district's commitment to continuous improvement and educational excellence while having the lowest per-pupil expenditures in the region. The strengths highlighted in the report provide a solid foundation as the district serves a diverse and growing community. By building on successes, addressing challenges with purpose, and maintaining focus on student learning and wellbeing, the district continues its mission of preparing all students with the skills and knowledge they need to thrive in a rapidly changing world. The report demonstrates how the district has responded to significant growth and change over recent years. Between 2021 and 2025, enrollment increased by more than one-third, requiring the district to expand staff, resources, and services while maintaining educational quality. This growth reflects changing community demographics, with the multilingual learner program expanding to serve nearly 180 students and all three elementary schools transitioning to schoolwide Title I programming to provide equitable resources. Student achievement data shows positive trends, particularly at the high school level where graduation rates have climbed by nearly seven percentage points over the past four years to reach more than 92 percent. More students are taking advantage of rigorous coursework, with nearly 400 enrolled in Advanced Placement, dual enrollment, and early college programs. The Sanford Regional Technical Center continues preparing students for high-demand careers through 25 different programs serving seven area school districts, with many students earning both industry certifications and college credits. The district has also strengthened support systems across all buildings, with counselors, social workers, and nurses working together to address student wellbeing through mental health partnerships and community collaborations. Students also benefit from robust programming beyond core academics, from performances at the Sanford Performing Arts Center to participation in over 30 different sports and numerous clubs and activities. Adult Education has seen growth as well, more than doubling enrollment over three years to serve nearly 1,900 community members. The report acknowledges that engaged community members strengthen the district's work through their involvement in countless ways, from attending events to participating in parent organizations and school activities. This commitment to students and their futures demonstrates the partnership between schools and the community that supports student success.

Sanford School Department State of the Schools Report

February 4, 2026

The Sanford School Department has released its State of the Schools report, providing families and community members with a comprehensive look at the district's students, staff, p...

Sanford School Department Begins Budget Process for 2026-2027

February 3, 2026

The Sanford School Committee has begun the process of approving the budget for the 2026-2027 school year. Community members can access budget information on the Sanford School De...