Sanford School Department

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 ...

Sanford Spotlight Newsletter

June 7, 2024

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

Sanford High School held its 131st Commencement ceremony on Wednesday, June 5, inside Partners Bank Gymnasium, marking another milestone for the graduating Class of 2024. The event featured inspiring speeches from a distinguished guest and student leaders.

Sanford High School's 131st Commencement

June 6, 2024

Sanford High School held its 131st Commencement ceremony on Wednesday, June 5, inside Partners Bank Gymnasium, marking another milestone for the graduating Class of 2024. The eve...

Carl J. Lamb held its first-ever Special Olympics event on Monday, June 3rd, bringing smiles and athletic achievement to students with disabilities. The event was the culmination of months of planning by teachers and staff.

Carl J. Lamb Hosts First-Ever Special Olympics

June 5, 2024

Carl J. Lamb held its first-ever Special Olympics event on Monday, June 3rd, bringing smiles and athletic achievement to students with disabilities. The event was the culmination...

Sanford High School Class of 2024 Senior Awards Night

June 5, 2024

Sanford High School's Class of 2024 Senior Awards Night was on Monday, June 3rd, in the Performing Arts Center. Seniors were recognized by teachers and staff from all departments...

Sanford Summer Meals for Kids

June 4, 2024

The Sanford Summer Meals for Kids & Teens program returns on June 20th, providing free breakfast and lunch for youth 18 and under at multiple locations across the city. No regis...

At her core, even through challenging budgets and especially disciplinary measures as principal, Sharon Remick exemplified love: Love for children, loving support for her colleagues, passion for community, and a penchant for clicky shoes and fun-loving fashion!

Sharon Remick Dedication at Margaret Chase Smith Library

June 4, 2024

By Laura Snyder Smith At her core, even through challenging budgets and especially disciplinary measures as principal, Sharon Remick exemplified love: Love for children, lovi...

Over the past week, Margaret Chase Smith Elementary held its concert series, with performances by students in grades K-4. The performances culminated with the 4th grade concert on Thursday, May 30th, also serving as the 4th grade promotion ceremony. Each grade performed a repertoire of songs they had been practicing, displaying the musical skills they had developed over the year. The music selections were carefully chosen by music teacher Heather Hastings to be both fun and educational. "I listen to and evaluate lots of songs in early and mid-February and choose the final list of contenders by the time vacation rolls around," Hastings said. "While I do look for 'fun and catchy,' I also seek out songs that support current learning and are developmentally appropriate for students." In addition to singing, the concerts showcased other musical skills the students have been developing. Pieces like "Follow My Rhythms" demonstrated their growing rhythm literacy, with more complex rhythms for older grades. Other performances incorporated movement to visually represent the music or warmups that highlighted skills like ensemble listening. A highlight was the 4th grade chorus performance of a song they voted on themselves. The song was a culminating musical experience before their promotion to middle school. The concerts did not just exhibit performance skills, but provided a window into the well-rounded music curriculum at MCS. "Our performances are only a small window into what happens in the music classroom daily," Hastings said. "I'm always looking for ways to better showcase all that we learn and do." The promotion ceremony following the 4th grade concert celebrated the students' accomplishments over their elementary years. An end-of-year video highlighted memories; students were recognized for their achievements and participation.

Margaret Chase Smith Spring Concerts

June 3, 2024

Over the past week, Margaret Chase Smith Elementary held its concert series, with performances by students in grades K-4. The performances culminated with the 4th grade concert on...

SRTC Director Matt Petermann named 2024 Friend of the Sanford Backpack Program

June 3, 2024

Sanford Regional Technical Center Director Matt Petermann was named the 2024 Friend of the Sanford Backpack Program at the annual Chocolate Benefit Spectacular on May 18th. The ...

Sanford High School and Middle School will be hosting a sports physical clinic on Monday, August 5th, from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. in the School Nurse's Office (D105) at Sanford High School. The clinic is available for Sanford students entering grades 6 through 12. To access the School Nurse's Office, enter Sanford High School through the Community Retail Center entrance near the greenhouse. The cost for the sports physical is $20. Checks should be made payable to York Hospital. Students must register in advance using the following link: https://forms.gle/rXYk3oXkLfq16AHd8 Students must be accompanied by their parent/guardian or have the Limited Sports Exam form signed by their parent/guardian. https://core-docs.s3.amazonaws.com/documents/asset/uploaded_file/296476/Physical_Form.pdf All physicals are valid for two years from the date of the physical. If you have any questions, please contact Lynne Signore, RN at Sanford High School -- 207-206-1708 -- lsignore@sanford.org.

Sports Physical Clinic for Sanford Middle and High School Students on August 5th

May 31, 2024

Sanford High School and Middle School will be hosting a sports physical clinic on Monday, August 5th, from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. in the School Nurse's Office (D105) at Sanford High Sc...

Sanford Middle School Celebrates Student Growth and Achievement at JMG Closing Ceremony

May 31, 2024

Sanford Middle School held its annual JMG (Jobs for Maine's Graduates) Closing Ceremony on Wednesday, May 29th, in the cafeteria. The event celebrated students' hard work and ach...

Annual Pinning Ceremony Honors Sanford's Newly Minted Nursing Assistants

Annual Pinning Ceremony Honors Sanford Regional Technical Center's Newly Minted Nursing Assistants

May 30, 2024

Sanford Regional Technical Center held its annual Health Occupations Pinning Ceremony in the Performing Arts Center on Tuesday, May 28th. The ceremony recognized students who ha...

At Sanford Middle School, things are looking brighter these days by way of yellow tulips in the front of the school! 8th grader Gianna Garneau from the JMG program had an idea in 7th grade to spread some kindness and positivity. She collaborated with the Yellow Tulip Project from Portland, Maine, a nationally recognized mental health awareness initiative. She became an ambassador for this program in Maine and brought it to Sanford. In October, the school counseling team and SMS Sources of Strength peer leaders planted about 40 tulip bulbs when it was dark and cold out, signifying people's struggles with mental health concerns. The idea was to hold onto hope through the hard winter, knowing things can improve with a bit of hope and help from others. This spring, SMS students checked the tulips weekly to ensure they were growing. Last Friday, as part of Mental Health Awareness Month, the counseling team coordinated gathering the student helping groups at SMS- Sources of Strength, Student Leadership Team, Civil Rights Team, JMG, and YANA - You Are Not Alone, a 5th grade club, along with the SMS Band and Chorus. We are proud of all our SMS students do to support one another through the ups and downs of middle school.

Sanford Middle School Yellow Tulip Project

May 28, 2024

At Sanford Middle School, things are looking brighter these days by way of yellow tulips in the front of the school! 8th grader Gianna Garneau from the JMG program had an idea i...

Sanford Regional Technical Center (SRTC) held its annual Recognition Ceremony on Thursday, May 23rd, to honor the achievements of the 2024 graduating seniors and one-year program completers. The ceremony began with welcoming remarks from SRTC Director Matt Petermann, followed by senior Mason Van Gieson singing the National Anthem. Superintendent Matt Nelson took the stage to deliver greetings and express gratitude to the SRTC teachers, administrators, support staff, transportation workers, and superintendents from all of SRTC's sending schools. Petermann returned to the stage to recognize students' accomplishments in SkillsUSA and the National Technical Honor Society. Assistant Director Michael Redmon then announced the students who received scholarships. A highlight of the evening was the recognition of SRTC's Student of the Year candidates. Petermann introduced each candidate, sharing insights from their instructors that highlighted their exceptional qualities and accomplishments: Kyla Libby (Noble, Academy of Business) was praised by Ms. Lamoreau for her leadership and expertise. Kyla plans to attend community college before transferring to a four-year university. James Coconis (Sanford, Health Occupations) was commended by Instructor Ms. Holm for his engagement, excellent academic performance, and teamwork. James will attend the University of New England to study Nursing. Kristopher Bataran (Sanford, Precision Manufacturing) was described by Mr. Bolduc as a joy to have in class, having mastered every machine in the shop. Chris will attend Southern Maine Community College for Precision Manufacturing. Wilson Clough (Wells, Plumbing) was praised by Mr. Peck for his readiness to work and willingness to help others. Wilson plans to work in the HVAC field after high school. Aidan Gagnon (Sanford, Engineering Applications with Robotics) was recognized by Mr. Sirios for representing SRTC values through his character and honesty. Aidan will pursue a four-year degree in Engineering. Connor Christensen (Noble, Engineering/Architectural Design) was described by Mr. Clark as the definition of a perfect student, setting the tone with his maturity. Connor plans to study Architectural or Structural Engineering in college. Michael Cousineau(Sanford, Firefighting) impressed nearly everyone he encountered, according to Captain Smith. Michael will continue volunteering as a firefighter while pursuing a college degree. Mel Schaeffer (Massabesic, Digital Design) was lauded by Ms. Lavgine for her fantastic attendance and work ethic, having won gold at SkillsUSA. Mel aims to study Animation in college. Delaney Noldan(Wells, Video Production) was recognized by Mr. Harmon for her unwavering dedication to producing her best work on every project. Delaney will attend community college before transferring to a university to study Media. Mercedes Swanson (Traip Academy, Law Enforcement) was named the SRTC Student of the Year by her instructor, Tipper Thornton. Some of Mercedes' accomplishments include a sports award for leadership, National Honor Society, National Technical Honor Society, Sanford Regional Technical Center Student of the Year, Vice President of SkillsUSA at SRTC, Sanford Junior Police Cadets Secretary and Sergeant, and Traip Academy academic student of the month. She has also earned her Basic Life Saving certification through the Law Enforcement program. After program instructors presented recognition certificates to their students, Student Services Counselor Deanna Farrell provided closing remarks, bringing the celebration to a close. In case you missed SRTC's Recognition night, you can watch it on YouTube at this link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bSoxiLi065Q&t=2785s

Sanford Regional Technical Center's Recognition Night

May 28, 2024

Sanford Regional Technical Center (SRTC) held its annual Recognition Ceremony on Thursday, May 23rd, to honor the achievements of the 2024 graduating seniors and one-year program ...

The accomplishments of Jobs for Maine Graduates (JMG) students at Sanford High School and SRTC took center stage at the Performing Arts Center on Tuesday, May 21. Friends, family members, teachers, and school administrators gathered to honor the hard work and successes of the JMG program participants during the annual Closing Ceremony. The event opened with welcoming statements from JMG Specialist Chery Gifford, who oversees the program at SHS Sanford. Throughout the ceremony, multi-year JMG students were recognized with certificates honoring their participation and achievements in the program over multiple years. The graduating seniors in the JMG program were also given special recognition as they get ready to transition to life after high school. A highlight of the event was a slideshow video created by Alissa Letourneau that recapped highlights and memorable moments from the JMG program throughout the school year. All grade levels of JMG participants were honored during the celebratory ceremony. "The closing ceremony is such a great event to showcase the students' year in JMG," said Cheryl Gifford, a JMG Specialist. "The ceremony is student-run, giving them a chance to demonstrate leadership and celebrate their efforts in community service and career research." Gifford also highlighted juniors and seniors who have completed their Career Exploration Badge. The badge is an opportunity to participate in 40 hours of meaningful work experiences facilitated through a designed exploration and reflection process. SHS and SRTC students had to complete these hours of hands-on employer engagement experiences and online modules utilizing JMG's management system. Students had to document their employer experience. Upon completion, students received an academic award of up to $500. Over the past two years, 178 SHS and SRTC students have completed their badge, totaling over $88,000 to the Sanford community. The JMG program provides high school students with career preparation, leadership, and hands-on learning experiences to help them succeed after graduation. The annual closing ceremony celebrates the hard work of JMG students over the past school year. The seniors recognized were Maddison Bouchard, Skylar Cabezal, Isabella Dale, Wyatt Flinkstrom, Caitlyn Goode, Zachary Jason, Connor Kingsbury, Emily Knight, Rylee Marr, Eric Norwald, Chloe Phinney, Mollie Poyner, Valerie Randall, William Reed, and Reese Turner.

JMG Closing Ceremony

May 23, 2024

The accomplishments of Jobs for Maine Graduates (JMG) students at Sanford High School and SRTC took center stage at the Performing Arts Center on Tuesday, May 21. Friends, family ...

ESEA Public Comment

May 22, 2024

The Sanford School Department accepts funding through the Elementary and Secondary Act (ESEA) of 1965. As part of ESEA, the Sanford School Department is required to provide a re...

Carl J. Lamb Elementary School hosted an exciting Career Day assembly on Friday, May 17th, inviting professionals from various fields to share insights about their careers with eager students. The event aimed to inspire and enlighten young minds, introducing them to various career possibilities. Sanford School Resource Officer Joe Jourdain, Samantha Brink of Chiropractic Clinic, and Nurse Amy were among the representatives. There were also representatives from the Sanford Fire and Police Departments, Southern Maine Aviation, Moody’s Collision Center, Kennebunk Animal Welfare Society, Northeastern University’s The Roux Institute, Caron Engineering, and Everything In Between.

Carl J. Lamb Career Day Assembly

May 22, 2024

Carl J. Lamb Elementary School hosted an exciting Career Day assembly on Friday, May 17th, inviting professionals from various fields to share insights about their careers with ea...