Carl J. Lamb School

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@sanford.org) or fill out the employee spotlight form here. This spotlight is on Carl J. Lamb Food Service Manager Debra Mello. How long have you been working in the Sanford School Department? 17 Years What's your favorite part about working in Sanford? My first impression of Sanford 24 years ago was that it is very family friendly. That is still the case. I love working with the kids. What's your favorite TV show or movie? Mostly watch a lot of football! If you could describe yourself in three words, what would they be? I asked friends and co-workers for help with this and the three that came up the most are funny, kind and talkative (but in a good way). If you could visit any place in the world, where would it be? England Podcasts or Playlists? Playlists Lake or Ocean? Ocean Sunrise or Sunset? Sunset Facebook or Instagram? Facebook

Employee Spotlight

October 16, 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@sanf...

CJL’s Family Folk Dance was a Hit!

October 16, 2024

We’d like to thank our families for coming out last night to join us in our cultural celebration, the CJL Family Folk Dance. We learned about family traditions around the world, s...

Carl J. Lamb's Weekly Newsletter

October 15, 2024

Click here for Carl J. Lamb's weekly newsletter.

Upcoming Free Flu Vaccination Clinics

October 1, 2024

The Sanford School Department, in partnership with Northern Light Home Care & Hospice, will be offering influenza vaccination clinics for students this October. Parents are encou...

Title I Parents Right to Know Letter

September 30, 2024

Carl J. Lamb Second Graders Celebrate Completion of Learning Unit with Flapjacks and Flannels

September 27, 2024

Second graders at Carl J. Lamb recently completed an exciting unit on fairy tales and tall tales. They explored classic stories like "The Fisherman and His Wife" and "Beauty and...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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.

Kristy Richards Named New Assistant Principal at Carl J. Lamb Elementary School

July 23, 2024

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, effecti...

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...

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...

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...

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.

Portland Symphony Orchestra's String Quartet Visits Carl J. Lamb, Sanford Pride, and Margaret Chase Smith

May 13, 2024

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 ...