Carl J. Lamb
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.
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 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.
Public Comment
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.
The Portland Symphony Orchestra's talented String Quartet paid a special visit to Carl J. Lamb Elementary School, Sanford Pride Elementary School, and Margaret Chase Smith School this past Thursday, May 9th. The musicians treated students to a lively performance that blended music, storytelling, and interactive elements.  The centerpiece of the presentation was Leo Lionni's children's book Swimmy. As a member of the quartet narrated the tale of the brave little fish, the other musicians underscored the story with excerpts from classical compositions. The sounds of the violin, viola, and cello evoked the mysteries of the deep blue sea, which served as the setting for Swimmy's adventures.  The quartet encouraged students to join in on the fun by performing hand motions mimicking the movements of the fish characters. Children waved their hands to depict Swimmy swimming, the larger fish chasing him, and other events from the beloved story.  The musicians also introduced their orchestral instruments to the young audience members. They demonstrated the unique tones produced by plucking, bowing, and striking the strings in different ways.
Carl J. Lamb Hosts Concerts and Arts Nights
Kindergarten Registration
On Friday, March 15th, Carl J. Lamb welcomed sixteen classes to the music room to learn about Irish music in celebration of St. Patrick’s Day. Musicians learned about Irish instruments, learned to speak Irish, and even got to try the fiddle and accordion.
The Sanford community shined brightly for the school department’s annual Spring Sing Choral Showcase at the Performing Arts Center on Wednesday, March 6th.
New Kindergarten Student Early Registration Event
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 at sbonsey@sanford.org. This spotlight is on Carl J. Lamb Music Teacher Hattie Skvorak
Students in Ms. Brann’s and Ms. Wechter’s kindergarten classes at Carl J. Lamb had their K for ME Showcase on Friday.
​Carl J. Lamb hosted a series of visits from The Cromwell Center for Disabilities this week.
Carl J. Lamb teachers used their early release day time this week to dive into student writing standards and evidence of student application of the standards in their writing, celebrate what students were doing well, and share instructional strategies and next steps with one another.
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 at sbonsey@sanford.org. This spotlight is on Carl J. Lamb 4th Grade Teacher Kari Niland.
Gingerbread Family Fun in Pre-K
SkillsUSA students at Sanford Regional Technical Center hosted its annual holiday party for Carl J. Lamb students on Thursday, December 21st.