Sanford School Department

Sanford High Celebrates Fall Athletes at Record-Breaking Recognition Night

Sanford High Celebrates Fall Athletes at Recognition Night

November 14, 2025

Sanford High School's Performing Arts Center filled with student-athletes, families, and coaches Thursday, November 13, as the school celebrated another successful fall athletic s...

Carl J. Lamb Elementary School held its third annual Veterans Day Celebration, featuring performances and an engaging history lesson that captivated students and honored local veterans. The assembly marked a special milestone for the school's youngest learners: it was the first-ever assembly for pre-kindergarten and kindergarten students, who demonstrated remarkable respect and patience throughout the program. Chief Jonathan Hotchkiss and his wife Jan presented a fascinating flag history demonstration, showing students historical American flags including the 1775 Navy flag with its red and white stripes and the Bunker Hill flag with its distinctive pine tree. Students learned how Maine's white pine trees were used to make ship masts and counted the 13 stripes representing the original colonies. Chief Hotchkiss also led students in the flag ceremony, along with two other veterans, Dennis Boyd, Sr. and Punky Noble. Second graders Wesley and Dennis had the honor of holding the flag. The school's show choir performed "Because of You," a tribute to veterans' service and sacrifice. Veterans were then invited to the front of the stage for a performance by all grades. Students dressed in red, white, and blue and performed songs including "Thank You to Our Veterans" and "The Star Spangled Banner" for what one second grader described as "like a billion veterans" gathered in the cafeteria. After practicing all week and having a dress rehearsal on Friday, students were excited to share their tribute. "It was awesome," said second grader Wesley, whose father attended the celebration. His classmate Evelyn's father helped with the flag ceremony, adding to the personal connections that made the day meaningful for both students and veterans alike.

Carl J. Lamb Elementary Hosts Third Annual Veterans Day Celebration

November 14, 2025

Carl J. Lamb Elementary School held its third annual Veterans Day Celebration, featuring performances and an engaging history lesson that captivated students and honored local vet...

Margaret Chase Smith School welcomed 65 veterans to their annual Veterans Day Breakfast, creating a morning filled with performances, poetry, and meaningful connections across generations. The celebration featured presentations from students across all grade levels. The Den Ambassadors, a ten-member fourth grade student leadership team, opened with an original poem honoring the courage and sacrifices of veterans. "Veterans are brave men and women who are still alive today. We thank them for their service and the price they choose to pay," the students recited. Second graders each shared poetry and performances they had practiced throughout the week. Fourth graders distributed handmade bookmarks to each veteran as keepsakes to remind them of the school's appreciation. The fourth grade chorus, under the direction of Miss. Hastings, performed a song about sacrifice and service, despite having only four practices since chorus began in mid-October. The entire school then joined together to sing the MCS school song. A particularly touching moment came when the school connected via video call with a father of two MCS students who is currently deployed in Saudi Arabia. Despite the time difference, he was able to join the breakfast virtually and see the presentations honoring his service and that of his fellow veterans. Among the 65 veterans in attendance was Sarge, a beloved Ledgemere bus driver, adding to the sense of community and connection throughout the morning.

Margaret Chase Smith Elementary Honors 65 Veterans at Annual Breakfast

November 13, 2025

Margaret Chase Smith Elementary School welcomed 65 veterans to their annual Veterans Day Breakfast, creating a morning filled with performances, poetry, and meaningful connections...

On Veterans Day, Sanford Pride's 4th grade chorus students traveled to Pinnacle Health in Sanford to honor local veterans with a special musical performance. What began as a simple visit turned into an unforgettable experience for both students and residents alike. The young singers delivered beautiful performances that filled the facility with joy, and each student had prepared handmade cards and letters to present to the veterans. While some children were initially shy about speaking with the residents, those hesitations quickly melted away as conversations began to flow naturally. By the time the bus arrived to take the students back to school, teachers found it nearly impossible to gather the group—the 4th graders were so engaged in their conversations with the veterans that they didn't want to leave! The feeling was clearly mutual, as several residents seemed delighted to welcome their "35 new grandchildren" for the afternoon. "It was a heartwarming, eye-opening, and positive experience for our students to have," said music teacher Meaghan Mannino. This intergenerational connection provided students with meaningful lessons that extended far beyond the music—about taking time to listen, connect, and show appreciation to those who have served our country.

Sanford Pride Chorus Students Honor Veterans Through Song at Pinnacle Health and Rehab

November 13, 2025

On Veterans Day, Sanford Pride's chorus students traveled to Pinnacle Health in Sanford to honor local veterans with a special musical performance. What began as a simple visit tu...

Four Sanford High Students Selected for Elite Regional Honors Choirs

November 13, 2025

Four Sanford High School vocalists have earned spots in the American Choral Directors Association (ACDA) Eastern Division Honors Choirs, a prestigious recognition that places them...

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1qJFIem5eNYsT5IRIKbWZYoQ_f3v5yzq4/view

The SMS Times: November Edition

November 12, 2025

Click here to read Sanford Middle's online newspaper, The SMS Times.

Sanford Students Explore Future Pathways at Career and College Fair

November 12, 2025

When Sanford Regional Technical Center student Autumn Liston entered Partners Bank Gymnasium for Thursday's Career and College Fair, she was planning to delay her education and wo...

Sanford High School Theater Company presents Thornton Wilder’s timeless American classic, Our Town at Sanford Performing Arts Center. Performances will be held on Friday, November 14 at 7 pm, Saturday, November 15 at 7 pm, and Sunday, November 16 at 2 pm. Set in the small town of Grover’s Corners, Our Town tells the universal story of everyday life, love, and loss. Through simple yet profound moments, the play invites audiences to reflect on what it means to truly appreciate the beauty in ordinary days. Wilder’s masterful storytelling continues to resonate with audiences nearly a century after its debut. This production features a cast of 22 talented SHS students, including Braeden Landry as the omniscient Stage Manager, Anna Brown as the spirited Emily Webb, and Jack Van Gieson as the earnest George Gibbs. “Our Town reminds us all to slow down and recognize the extraordinary in the everyday,” said director Brett Williams. “Our students have found deep meaning in this story, connecting its themes of family and friendship to their own experiences growing up in Sanford.” Tickets are $13 for adults, $10 for seniors and active military, and free for students. Come celebrate live theater and the remarkable work of Sanford’s young artists!

Sanford High School Theatre Company Presents "Our Town"

November 10, 2025

Sanford High School Theater Company presents Thornton Wilder’s timeless American classic, Our Town at Sanford Performing Arts Center. Performances will be held on Friday, November...

Making Every Day Count: Attendance During the Holiday Season

November 10, 2025

Dear Families, As we approach the busy holiday season, we want to remind you of the importance of regular school attendance. We know this time of year brings many celebrations, f...

Senior Hannah Chambers, a student in Sanford Regional Technical Center's Engineering and Architecture program, is gaining hands-on experience in the construction industry through her internship at Eldredge Lumber Company—and confirming her decision to enter the workforce immediately after graduation. When Hannah attended SRTC's Career and College Fair last fall, her teacher Mr. Clark guided her to the Eldredge Lumber table. Lindsey Eldredge remembers that first meeting clearly: "She made incredible eye contact. She was dressed professionally, and she shook my hand." After receiving an application and Lindsey's business card, Hannah demonstrated remarkable persistence. "She emailed me every single month," Eldredge said. "She's extraordinary." That determination led to her landing an internship at the company's contractor desk. "I wanted to get a chance to know what my future job would be like, and also to get more experience under my belt," Chambers said. "I plan on not going to college—I'd rather go straight into the work field, and this opportunity helps me understand what my life will look like when I graduate." Three to four days each week, Hannah immerses herself in the building materials business. She's learned to navigate Eldredge Lumber’s extensive inventory, memorize product sizes and account names, and help contractors place orders efficiently. "It's always a learning experience, also a memory game," she shares. "There are many questions about what sizes we stock and where certain things are throughout the store." Her background has proven valuable. "She's incredible with customers," Eldredge said. "She has a really great, gregarious personality, and her dad is a builder, so she knows our clientele and understands the language." Through the internship, Hannah has developed a deeper understanding of lumber dimensions, wood species, and material applications. "I like learning things with the customers," she said. "Going through orders and learning why they ordered this and what they are using the specific material for." The experience has solidified her career path. Rather than pursuing a college degree to become an architect, she's set her sights on becoming a draftsman. "This internship has helped me know that even if I am not going to college, I can still make it, doing what I love," she said. Her immediate goal? "I hope after this year is over I can get hired here at Eldredge when my internship is over." For Eldredge, students like Hannah represent valuable future employees. "The SRTC students are not entry-level employees," she explains. "They already have the knowledge. It's an easy transition to get these kids from SRTC into the workforce." Eldredge Lumber offers comprehensive benefits and long-term career potential. "If college isn't the way these kids want to go, I can offer them a career, not just a job," Lindsey says. Hannah's internship is one of several Extended Learning Opportunities coordinated by Sally MacDougal, offering students pathways to explore career options and build industry connections—whether they're headed to college or directly into the workforce.

SRTC Student Builds Career Foundation at Eldredge Lumber Through Internship

November 6, 2025

Senior Hannah Chambers, a student in Sanford Regional Technical Center's Engineering and Architecture program, is gaining hands-on experience in the construction industry through ...

Sanford Middle School Presents 'Disney's Dare to Dream JR.' This Weekend

November 6, 2025

Disney’s Dare to Dream JR. is performing at Sanford Middle School on Friday at 6:30 PM and Saturday at 1:30 PM. This fun and lighthearted musical revue, designed for middle sch...

This is part of a series highlighting the career and technical education programs offered at Sanford Regional Technical Center. Behind professional cameras and editing software, students in Sanford Regional Technical Center's Video Production program transform creative ideas into award-winning digital media—one frame at a time. Instructor James Harmon, with over twenty years of independent film production experience, brings real-world expertise directly into the classroom. Beyond his work as a video contractor, he founded and directed a successful film festival for five years and has taught in Sanford for nearly twenty years. That real-world experience shapes a classroom culture where students feel genuinely connected to their work and each other. "My favorite part of Video Production is that it's the only class I have where I feel really connected to the other students there beyond just sitting in the same room for a while," said Jasper Sweet, a second-year student from Sanford High School. "We make some really cool stuff together, and it wouldn't work if we didn't bring all the creativity and ambition we have to the table." That creative energy is exactly what Harmon values most. "I've learned that they're an endless well of ideas, inspiration, and entertainment," Harmon said. "All I need to do is show them a few things, and they're off to the races, surprising me with their creativity, determination, skills, and talent." Students learn essential roles in television, digital cinema, and audio production, working as individuals and in teams operating professional equipment and using industry-standard software to bring their ideas to life. The program prepares students for professional opportunities through the Maine Association of Broadcasters Video Production Certification. They can earn college credits through Southern Maine Community College. The program's excellence was on full display at this spring's SkillsUSA state conference. Of the twelve SRTC students who participated, six earned medals, creating award-winning TV ads, short films, audio broadcasts, and computer-generated animations. "I'm so proud of my current media students and graduates," Harmon said. "Every student put their best foot forward.” Harmon emphasized the broader lessons students take from the program. "Video production is an engaging, meaningful experience," he explained. "Students get to see—and come to know—how every person on a team is essential, and how impactful their voice can be in a group. The teamwork, the give and take, and the compromises that they make in two years of video production helps prepare these students for all of the interpersonal communication that will be important in their future." SRTC second-year student from Kennebunk High, Winter Nodden, highlighted the program's resources and career potential: "My favorite aspect of the program is the sheer aspect of creative opportunity and money that has been provided to us for this school. While we can't have everything, Mr. Harmon has so much knowledge as a teacher and there are so many different jobs that could come from this class." The program extends beyond the classroom through successful internships with The Sanford Mainers and Seacoast Oldies, giving students real professional experience.

SRTC Program Highlight: Video Production

November 5, 2025

This is part of a series highlighting the career and technical education programs offered at Sanford Regional Technical Center. Behind professional cameras and editing software...

Sanford Spotlight Newsletter

November 5, 2025

Head to the following link to read the latest Sanford Spotlight Newsletter: https://tinyurl.com/39xcue2s

Throughout the school year, local business owners, managers, and industry professionals walk through the doors at Sanford Regional Technical Center—not as customers or inspectors, but as partners in education. They sit down with instructors, tour classrooms, and sometimes even meet with students. They're members of SRTC's program advisory committees, and they're helping shape what students learn. Every program at SRTC has one of these committees. SRTC Director Matt Petermann explains that they "provide us with relevant information about what happens in that particular industry in regards to technology, equipment, and workforce demands. Without these positive connections to our community and industry, our students would leave us and be at a disadvantage. These committees help keep our programs relevant and ensure that our students are receiving the best education they can get." The meetings focus on practical matters. Rich Couture, SRTC's Automotive Technology instructor, describes the committees as building "a strong connection with local business owners, managers, hiring personnel as well as parents of current and former students." These meetings create transparency about what's happening in the classroom—from the specific skills being taught to the operating budgets and the technology students are using. When industries change, the committees help instructors adjust. "It helps us shape our classes for new technologies and equipment being used so that we can stay current with what is trending now in our respective industries," Couture explains. Sometimes these conversations lead to concrete solutions. Brett Staples, Service Manager at Marc Motors in Sanford and a member of the Automotive program's advisory committee, notes that the advisory gives businesses a chance to "find out if any tools or equipment are needed in order to efficiently teach these students." When committees identify gaps, they can help programs secure what they need to keep up with industry standards. The student benefits go beyond updated curriculum. Couture sometimes invites students to attend advisory committee meetings. "On more than one occasion, I've had students leave the meeting with job interviews lined up," he shares. It's a direct pipeline from classroom to career. "Employers are realizing that to build their business with strong employees, SRTC may be a good option to find fresh new and upcoming talent," Couture says. For Staples, the commitment is straightforward: "These students are the future of our business. Without the younger people coming into the trade, there wouldn't be anyone to replace the seasoned techs as they retire."

SRTC's Advisory Committees Connect Students to Careers

November 4, 2025

Throughout the school year, local business owners, managers, and industry professionals walk through the doors at Sanford Regional Technical Center—not as customers or inspectors,...

Sanford Fire Department Visits Margaret Chase Smith Elementary

November 3, 2025

Margaret Chase Smith Kindergarten and Pre-K students received an exciting fire safety education visit from the Sanford Fire Department this week! During the visit, firefighters ta...

Sanford schools came together to celebrate Halloween with a series of community events that brought families, students, and staff together for evenings of fun and festivities. On Thursday, October 23, Sanford Middle School hosted their annual JMG Haunted Woods, offering students a thrilling walk through the shadows. That same evening, Sanford Pride Elementary welcomed families for Trick or Treat in their gymnasium, providing a safe and festive environment for young students to collect candy. Carl J. Lamb Elementary rounded out the night with their Trunk or Treat event, where creatively decorated car trunks delighted students and families alike. On Thursday, October 30, Margaret Chase Smith School hosted their PTA Halloween event, continuing the week of Halloween celebrations across the district. These events showcase the strong sense of community across the Sanford School Department, with staff and volunteers working together to create memorable experiences for our students and their families.

Sanford Schools Celebrate Halloween in Style

October 31, 2025

Sanford schools came together to celebrate Halloween with a series of community events that brought families, students, and staff together for evenings of fun and festivities. O...

SRTC Program highlight: Agricultural Enterprise and Environmental Systems

October 31, 2025

This is part of a series highlighting the career and technical education programs offered at Sanford Regional Technical Center. From planting garden beds in April rain to prepa...

Taylor Swift tribute comes to Sanford Performing Arts Center

October 31, 2025

SANFORD — Swifties, are you ready for it? Grab your cardigan and your concert crew, because the Sanford Performing Arts Center is turning into a Blank Space on Saturday, Nov. 22 ...

Dear Families, We're reaching out today because we know that many families in our community may have questions about how the recent federal government shutdown could affect household resources. Please know that our school is here to support you, and we want to make sure you have the most current information and know where to turn for help if you need it. If you or your family are worried about food during the government shutdown, help is available. School Meals will Remain Available for All Students All students can still get free breakfast and lunch at school every day. Find Local Food Assistance If your family needs food support, call 211, or visit the Good Shepherd Food Bank’s Food Pantry Locator to find help near you. Visit www.gsfb.org/get-help/food-map or scan the QR code. General Assistance Families can apply for General Assistance, which can help meet basic needs including food, housing, utilities, medical costs and more. Visit www.maine.gov/dhhs/ofi/programs-services/general-assistance. Continue to Apply or Renew SNAP Benefits You can still apply for or renew SNAP during the shutdown. If you qualify, doing this now will help make sure your benefits are ready as soon as funding resumes. Apply or renew at: www.mymaineconnection.gov. For Federal Employees: If you or someone in your household is a federal employee impact by the shutdown, additional resources and support information are available at the following link: https://tinyurl.com/bdzdsu2p We understand this news may be stressful, and we are here to support our students and families however we can. Sanford Schools will continue to monitor the situation and share updates as more information becomes available. Please don’t hesitate to reach out to your school’s school counselor, outreach staff or administrative office if you need help connecting to local resources.

Resources During the Government Shutdown

October 30, 2025

Dear Families, We're reaching out because we know that many families in our community may have questions about how the recent federal government shutdown could affect household ...

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6I9PNpy6gh0

Sanford School Department Hosts Safety Information Night

October 30, 2025

The Sanford School Department hosted a Safety Night in the Performing Arts Center on Tuesday, October 21, offering families and community members an opportunity to learn about the...