The Sanford Backpack Program is the largest school pantry in the state of Maine. Supplying over 250 k-12 students with nutrient dense foods each week, we strive to bridge the meal gap that some students may face over the weekends when school meals are unavailable. Read more about what we do and how it may benefit your family so that we can continue to fight... READ MORE >
On September 10th Margaret Chase Smith's staff hosted a reverse car parade for our students. Our reverse car parade had MCS's staff outside (socially distanced) to greet our students as their families drove them around the school. This allowed the students a chance to see their teachers faces' without a mask for the start of the school year. I want thank our... READ MORE >
Hi Everyone,I have been having some trouble posting my articles so, this is just a test to see if it works.Mr. Potter READ MORE >
September 20, 2020 Dear Sanford High School Students and Families, This letter is to inform you that two more individuals associated with Sanford High School / Sanford Regional Technical Center tested positive for Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) over the weekend. There is a possibility that other staff or students came in contact with this individual and... READ MORE >
Important Information: Sanford High School and Sanford Regional Technical Center Moving to All Remote Learning Effective Immediately.September 18, 2020 Dear Faculty, Staff, Students and Families, This letter is to inform you that an individual associated with Sanford High School recently tested positive for Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19). There is a... READ MORE >
School meals are free for all enrolled students through the end of 2020, whether they are in school or participating in distance learning. The USDA is extending flexibilities established over the summer through December 31, 2020, which will allow us to continue serving free meals to all students using federal funds. This includes pick-up meals established due to... READ MORE >
Hello MCS Families! We are excited to see you all this week as we begin our first few days of school for the 2020-2021 school year! Please see the attached Video and Map of what our drop off and pick up procedures will look like this year. This is a new plan developed to assist with the anticipated high volume of traffic in our parking lot. In addition, we will... READ MORE >
September 11, 2020 Good Evening Sanford Families: On behalf of the Sanford School Department, we are excited to welcome back our students. This will be a school opening like no other. We are opening our schools in an entirely different model, attempting to balance the safety needs of our students, staff, and community with meeting the educational needs... READ MORE >
School Meals Are Available for Students Enrolled in Sanford School Department’s Distance Learning Beginning Monday, September 14, 2020, free school meals are available for pickup for all students enrolled in Sanford School Department’s Distance Learning Program. Meals should be pre-ordered by 7:00 pm the night before using the online order form. The form can be... READ MORE >
As you know, York County was recently designated as a “yellow” county so changes were made to our elementary schedule as a precautionary move. See below for a calendar view of the next two weeks or click here for a downloadable version. READ MORE >
In a letter to Elementary Families last evening, Superintendent Matt Nelson outlined Sanford's updated plan for students in grades K - 4 to move to a two day per week in-person model, effective September 14, 2020. This will align with plans already announced for grades 5-12 and is an additional precaution in light of York County's current designation as "yellow". ... READ MORE >
The 20/21 bus routes for Carl J. Lamb School, Margaret Chase Smith School, and Willard School students are now available on our website under Family Links – Busses and Transportation or by clicking here. During Covid-19, we encourage and thank parents for providing transportation whenever possible. If you have any questions about transportation, please call ... READ MORE >
September 4, 2020 Message from Superintendent Matt Nelson Good afternoon. The Mills Administration today released a special update to its Health Advisory System that classifies counties’ relative risk of COVID-19 transmission by color. The Maine Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) re-categorized... READ MORE >
Calvert Learning information is now available for families who have signed up for full distance learning. Please access this information using the links below, broken out by grade level:Calvert Learning Welcome Letter for Grades K-5Calvert Learning Welcome Letter for Grades 6-8For more information, please reach out to your child's school or send an email to: ... READ MORE >
Sanford has one of the largest Backpack Programs in Maine. Click here to see how easy it is to participate or to donate to this important organization. READ MORE >
The 20/21 bus routes for Sanford High School, Sanford Middle School, and Bridge students are now available on our website under Family Links – Busses and Transportation or by clicking here. Information regarding Elementary bus runs will be available early next week. During Covid-19, we encourage and thank parents for providing transportation whenever... READ MORE >
Back to school parade invitation READ MORE >
Click here an important health message from our Sanford School NursesThis document contains valuable information for parents as they get ready to send their children back to school this fall. It includes a pre- screening tool for school attendance, symptom flowcharts, contact information for our school nurses and additional helpful information. READ MORE >
Welcome Back to School! Please click on the attached link to read our letter with important updates as we get ready to reopen our new school. We look forward to seeing you all soon! READ MORE >
The Sanford School Department wants to remind parents to renew their Free and Reduced Meal Applications to avoid any break in eligibility. Paper applications are available by calling your child’s school or parents can use the new, secure online application available at: https://www.myschoolapps.com/ . If you have any questions about the process, please contact our... READ MORE >
The Sanford School Committee on Monday, August 17, 2020, approved the Sanford School Reopening Plan and the 20/21 school calendar (available shortly). Click here for a detailed document that outlines the schedule for Sanford students by grade level. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to reach out to your child’s school. In addition, we would... READ MORE >
At their meeting on August 17, 2020, the Sanford School Committee approved a final version of the Sanford School Department Reopening Plan. Please follow the links below for more detailed information: Sanford School Department Reopening Plan – approved 8/17/20 FAQ document READ MORE >
The Sanford School Department is seeking motivated individuals to provide temporary custodial support in our schools on days that students are present. These temporary positions can be either 40 hours per week (2nd shift positions that begin at 3 pm and end at 11 pm) or 30 hours or less per week (1st shift positions that typically begin at 9 am and end at 3 pm but... READ MORE >
MCS #MASKUP READ MORE >
Employment Opportunity! Sanford School Department is currently hiring classroom substitutes for the 20/21 school year. The hours are great and the pay ranges from $100 to $120 per day based on certification. Fill out a Schoolspring application today – we plan to interview soon! Special COVID-19 training provided upon hire. For more information, visit... READ MORE >
The Sanford School Department is asking all families to complete a Return to School Intentions Form for the 2020-21 school year. For planning purposes, we need a separate form for each child. We've designated Wednesday, August 19th as the deadline for responses to allow parents time to review their options. Carl Lamb School Margaret Chase Smith... READ MORE >
The Sanford School Committee will meet Monday at 7 pm to discuss Sanford's Return to School Plan. Participation options include cable, live stream, Zoom video conference and limited in-person seating. Cable: Channel 26 (local for Metrocast/Atlantic BB customers) Live stream: https://townhallstreams.com/towns/sanfordme ; it will also be available for... READ MORE >
DRAFT Sanford School Department Reopening Plan DRAFTAt the School Committee meeting held last evening, Sanford School Administrators presented their DRAFT of a proposed Sanford School Department Reopening Plan. The School Committee reviewed questions and comments and will meet again on Monday, August 17, 2020 to vote on this plan.Please follow the link above to... READ MORE >
Are you looking for guidance regarding the supplies your child might need this year? Here's a helpful list for Grades K-4:Student and Teacher Supply Lists READ MORE >
Special Distribution Event of No-Cost Fresh FoodThursday, 7/30/203:00 - 5:30 pmWillard School and Lafayette SchoolBoxes of fresh, Maine dairy products, local farm fresh produce and non-food pantry items available at no charge; this event is sponsored by Pineland and the USDA and brought to you by THE SANFORD BACKPACK PROGRAM, with our friends from Spiller's Farm,... READ MORE >
Join Superintendent Matt Nelson on Monday, July 27 from 5:30-7:00pm at the Sanford Performing Arts Center for a Return to School Family Information Night. Superintendent Nelson will outline the most recent reopening guidance from the Maine DOE, and the plans that the Sanford School Department is currently considering for returning to school in the fall. He... READ MORE >
In an effort to make back to school shopping easier and safer for you, the McWillard worked with the School Department to put together an option to provide school supply boxes available to purchase online. These boxes were created using the District’s grade level supply lists. They will be available online until the first week of August and they will be shipped... READ MORE >
Dear Sanford Families, The Sanford School Department is in the process of planning for the start of the 2020-2021 school year. Our task is to develop a safe return to school and the highest quality-learning environment for our students whether that is a traditional in-classroom model, a virtual model, or a hybrid model that allows both face-to-face instruction... READ MORE >
Dear Parents/Guardians, The Maine Department of Education is currently seeking input from families statewide to help develop guidance for Maine schools regarding classroom instruction this fall. If you would like to participate in their 10 minute survey, please go to https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/mainefamilysurvey before 8:00 pm this Sunday, July 12, 2020. ... READ MORE >
Sanford School Department is seeking qualified applicants to work in our custodial and maintenance departments. Click here for more information or call us at 324-2810. READ MORE >
Friday, June 12th will be the last day of mobile food service routes. We will continue to provide Grab & Go Summer Meals Monday through Friday, beginning Monday, June 15th through Friday, August 7th at the following sites and times:The program is open to all children and teens and there are no eligibility requirements or registration required. FMI call the... READ MORE >
Kindergarten and Pre-K Registration Even though our buildings are closed due to COVID19, the Sanford School Department is still accepting names for kindergarten and pre-kindergarten classes starting this fall. Children who are 5 years of age on or before October 15, 2020, are eligible to register for kindergarten. Parents of eligible youngsters should call Carl... READ MORE >
Maine's Department of Health and Human Services has received approval from Food and Nutrition Services to partner with the Maine Department of Education to provide a Pandemic EBT (P-EBT) benefit to school-aged children who normally receive free or reduced breakfast and lunch at Maine schools. This benefit will help to replace the value of school meals while... READ MORE >
Letter from Superintendent Nelson Sanford School Department Extending Distance Learning for the Remainder of the 2019-2020 School Year Wednesday, April 29, 2020 Good Evening, During her press conference yesterday, Governor Janet Mills extended Maine’s Stay-at- Home Order through May 31, 2020. For Sanford’s public schools, this means that “distance... READ MORE >
Even though our buildings are closed due to COVID19, the Sanford School Department is still accepting names for kindergarten and pre-kindergarten classes starting this fall. Children who are 5 years of age on or before October 15, 2020, are eligible to register for kindergarten. Parents of eligible youngsters should call Carl J. Lamb Elementary School at (207)... READ MORE >
The City of Sanford and the Sanford School Department, in partnership with Biddeford Internet Corporation, d/b/a GWI, have launched a WiFi hotspot that is free and open to the public. The hotspot, which utilizes SanfordNet Fiber, the City’s high-speed fiber optic network, is located at the Lafayette School in Sanford. It will be accessible to the public at no cost... READ MORE >
Families affected by the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic shutdown may be eligible for free and reduced-priced school meals based on their current income. Free and reduced price meal benefits will carry over to the first 30 operating days of next school year. Families impacted are encouraged to submit an online application for free or reduced meal benefits during this... READ MORE >
April 16, 2020 Dear Parent/Guardian, Sanford School Department’s massive construction and renovation plan is scheduled to be completed for the fall of 2021. This means Sanford will have three elementary schools for grades pre-kindergarten through four, with projected enrollments of approximately 450 students each. Carl J. Lamb School, Margaret Chase... READ MORE >
LETTER FROM SUPERINTENDENT Matt Nelson Distance Learning & April Vacation Update Friday, April 10, 2020 Good evening: I hope all is well. We have just competed our fourth week of distance learning and I continue to be impressed with everyone’s hard work as we adjust to this new reality. On April 6, 2020, the Sanford School Committee approved a... READ MORE >
Click here to see how much Sanford students miss their teachers! READ MORE >
Memorandum To: The Residents and Stakeholders of Sanford & Springvale From: Matthew E. Hill, P.E. Date: March 27, 2020 Subject: Downtown Sanford Planning Partnership Initiative Public Meeting THE FUTURE OF SANFORD DOWNTOWN The City of Sanford, in cooperation with MaineDOT and VHB, is hosting a virtual meeting on April 16, 2020 at 6:00 pm. ... READ MORE >
Sanford School Department employees pull together to create and deliver free meals to Sanford children while school is closed. For more information on sites and delivery spots, visit :https://www.sanford.org/2020-health-updates . READ MORE >
A Message from Sanford School Nutrition: We want to be able to offer all children in our district the nutrition they need while schools are closed. On March 16th, we started offering free lunch and breakfast “to go” to all Sanford children at two sites – Sanford’s Memorial Gym on Main Street and Lafayette School on Brook Street. This practice has been... READ MORE >
Sanford School Department Will Offer Free Meals For All Students In the Case of a Coronavirus Closure Children and teens are encouraged to pick up meals in the event of a school closure. The meals are free for all children and teens and there are no eligibility requirements and registration is not required. Families will be able to pick up a lunch and a... READ MORE >
Sanford School Department Moving to Distance Learning Monday, March 16th Sanford Schools Sunday, March 15, 2020 The following is a letter from Matt Nelson, Superintendent of Schools Dear Sanford School Families, I am writing to inform you that the Sanford School Department will be closed starting Monday, March 16 until Friday, March... READ MORE >
March 13, 2020 Dear Sanford Community, I am writing to provide an update on our Coronavirus planning and preparations. Public health officials have indicated that school closures may be expected, but as of today, we are planning to hold school on Monday, March 16th. Our goal is to support continuous learning for our students and our schools while protecting... READ MORE >
March 12, 2020 Dear Sanford School Community, The Sanford School Department continues to monitor the status of Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) locally. We are receiving guidance from the Maine Center for Disease Control, the York County Emergency Management Agency and the Maine Department of Education. We are following recommended precautions and our... READ MORE >
Children who are 5 years of age on or before October 15, 2020 are eligible to register for kindergarten. Parents of eligible youngsters should call Carl J. Lamb Elementary School at (207) 324-8481 with the student's date of birth and the family's mailing address and phone number. Informational packets will be mailed to parents in April. READ MORE >
Students are back to school following the holiday break. Remember: STOP means STOP! Watch the proper way to stop for a school bus, and what not to do. Video LinkLearn more at NHTSA.gov/SchoolBus READ MORE >
Thank you to all Sanford voters who took the time to vote in favor of Bond Question #3 yesterday. Your continued support of our children, our schools and our community is greatly appreciated. READ MORE >
Questions regarding the upcoming bond questions in Sanford? We have answers! Here are links to several helpful documents: Sanford School Bond Fast Facts Invest in Sanford - Invest in YES City of Sanford Bond QuestionsLooking for more information on School Bond Question #3? Call us at (207) 324 2810! READ MORE >
Sanford School Department is seeking quotes for a medium duty dump truck. Quotes will be accepted until 11:00 AM on Wednesday, October 16, 2019. Additional information is available on our website under the Business & Finance page or by calling the Sanford School Department Business Office at (207) 324 2810. READ MORE >
Sanford School Department is seeking classroom substitutes for the 2019/2020 school year for all levels - pre-kindergarten through grade 12. For more information, visit Schoolspring posting #3182933. READ MORE >
The Sanford School Department is pleased to announce the addition of MY SCHOOL APPS, a new online tool that makes it easy to apply for school meal benefits. It’s a great alternative to the paper application process and is quick, convenient and secure. For more information, go to https://www.myschoolapps.com/ or check the Food & Nutrition Program page on our... READ MORE >
Gifted & Talented Parent Night Tuesday, Oct. 22nd. 6:00-7:30 pm Sanford High School Agora All identified GT students and their parents are encouraged to attend.For more information, contact Lori Coleman at lcoleman@sanford.org . READ MORE >
SANFORD ALUMNI ASSOCIATION ANNOUNCES FIRST ANNUAL ALUMNI 5K The Sanford Alumni Association is pleased to announce Homecoming Weekend’s First Annual Alumni 5K. This will be a road race/walk to support the Sanford Alumni Association and will be held annually during Sanford’s Homecoming Weekend. This year’s race will be held on Sunday, September 29, 2019. ... READ MORE >
Sanford School Department and Ledgemere Transportation are pleased to offer access to the updated bus tracking app, SafeStop. This app shows the approximate location of your child’s bus, its estimated time of arrival (ETA) at bus stops, and any necessary status updates. When using the app, please keep in mind that this is a tool designed to help you anticipate... READ MORE >
Elementary and SJHS/SHS bus routes for the 2019-2020 school year are now available on our website!Questions or concerns? Please contact the bus company at 324-4888, the Superintendent's Office at 324-2810 or your child's school. READ MORE >
Deb Rosa, Sanford's Technology Specialist spent time in Mrs. Arnold's second grade class at MCS teaching them about the importance of Mason Bees. The children researched bee houses and how creative they could be. The students along with volunteers and the teachers made bee houses to hang in their own yards.Eighth grade students in Ms. Sara Nason's class prepared... READ MORE >
Last Tuesday Margaret Chase Smith School's kindergarteners performed at their spring concert. With six kindergarten classes and limited space, three of the kindergarten classes had to perform at 5:30 p.m. and the other three classes performed at 7:00 p.m. Ms. Hastings, our music teacher, directed the students as they enthusiastically sang for everyone in... READ MORE >
For the past two months all of our 1st graders have been receiving super hero training that supports the core vales of honesty, respect, responsibility, and caring. The students' training has been completed and the parents of our 1st graders are invited to see their child's superhero presentation. Parents and guardians of our 1st graders are invited to join us... READ MORE >
Margaret Chase Smith School's second graders performed the second of two concerts held tonight. This was our second grader's end-of-the-year music concert. Under the musical direction of Ms. Hastings, our music teacher, the students sang and demonstrated their ability to read basic music notes. The next picture is of our second graders performing their first... READ MORE >
This evening the first graders at Margaret Chase Smith School performed their end-of-the-year music concert to a packed house. Under the musical direction of Ms. Hastings, our music teacher, the students sang and demonstrated their ability to read basic music notes. The next picture is of our first grade students clapping out the rhythm to the notes on display. ... READ MORE >
Margaret Chase Smith School held its final "Do the Right Thing" rally for this school year. MCS has been conducting the "Do the Right Thing" rallies for several years where through songs and skits students learned how to appropriately handle everyday expectations such as how to ride the bus or walk down the hall. This year the rallies were used to introduce and... READ MORE >
Sanford's Kiwanis Club sponsors an annual essay contest where Sanford's third graders write about what the qualities are to be a Terrific Kid. Every third grader's essay explains how our core values of Respect, Responsibility, Honesty, Courage and Compassion are the same values a Terrific Kid demonstrates or how he/she demonstrates these values. Then the essay... READ MORE >
Click within this article to view last night's K-8 Moving Plans Informational Meeting. https://youtu.be/vzRa3lkgRe8 READ MORE >
This morning all the kindergarten classes from Margaret Chase Smith School watched a series of short play at the Rochester Opera House. This was an amazing experience for our students as they viewed short plays based on several popular children stories. One of the plays was "Dragons Love Tacos". I know we do not judge a book by its cover, but this title... READ MORE >
Saturday, June 1, 2019 10:00 am starting at YMCA READ MORE >
An informational meeting has been scheduled for Wednesday, May 22, 2019 at 5:00 pm in the Sanford Junior High School cafeteria to review available options regarding the placement of Sanford's elementary students for the 2019/2020 school year.For more information, please click here. READ MORE >
This morning I had the opportunity to go inside the addition to Margaret Chase Smith School. I was very excited to see the metal studs up and the amount of preparation for plumbing and electrical work that has been completed. I could see the progress that was being completed to the outside of our addition, but I am sharing pictures from my visit inside. You can... READ MORE >
The construction of Margaret Chase Smith School's addition continues to go well. You can see progress being made every day. Soon the exterior of the building will be enclosed the construction crews continue their work on the interior of the addition. Pictured above is photo of the frames that have been built for the windows to be installed. In the pictures... READ MORE >
On May 7th the students at Margaret Chase Smith School were treated to the musical sounds from the Portland Symphony Orchestra (PSO). As part of their Kinder Concerts members from the PSO visited Carl J. Lamb and Margaret Chase Smith Schools. All the students in grades Kindergarten through third grade from all of Sanford's public schools learned about some of the... READ MORE >
Mr. Thom Gagne, aka. Butterfly Guy,visited Margaret Chase Smith school's second graders to talk about monarch butterflies.He talked to the students about how important milkweed is for the monarch butterflies. Mr. Gagne encouraged our students to plant milkweed, not cut the milkweed plants down, and to plant lots of flower to attract the butterflies to them.Our... READ MORE >
On Monday our students and staff participated in practicing how to evacuate from a bus. Th expectation is that students practice how to evacuate a bus twice a year. Today was our second drill. Last fall, students practiced exiting the bus from the emergency exit located in the back of the bus, and on Monday students practiced exiting the bus from the front... READ MORE >
Thursday, May 9th, our PTA is having the Northern Star Planetarium set up in our cafeteria. This will be a fun family event where participants can enter and learn about constellations in the blow-up planetarium. There will also be activities where students can build "stomp rockets", straw rockets, draw constellations and more. There will be two sessions with the... READ MORE >
During my walk around the school one the great lessons I observed was of Mrs. Arnold introducing a lesson on Opinion Writing. The students were learning how to structure their writing where each students had to share their opinion of which of two books he/she prepared and why. Mrs. Arnold introduced to her students how to use a Venn diagram to help them organize... READ MORE >
We can see progress everyday to the addition at Margaret Chase Smith School. It is exciting to see that the school in almost enclosed. The next picture is of the wall being built for our gym by the masons. READ MORE >
Construction on the addition to Margaret Chase Smith School is moving right along. You can see noticeable progress every day as the construction workers add frames for exterior and interior walls; putting up sheathing to the outside walls; and securing various support beams. What cannot be seen is the plumbing and electrical conduits that are coming underground... READ MORE >
On the Thursday before our April Break our third graders celebrated their unit on character studies by recreating the party in the book, Because of Winn-Dixie. For examples of great character development in a book, all the 3rd graders read the book. The book concludes with all the major characters gathering for a special party and with each guest bringing a... READ MORE >
In preparation for Earth Day Mrs. Arnold challenged her second graders to create a sculpture from discarded materials. Mrs. Arnold named the projects "Trash Sculptures". READ MORE >
Ms. McGuiggin's 2nd graders invited parents, friends, and other students in the school to visit their Dinosaur Museum. The 2nd grade scientists were eager to share their knowledge and research with everyone. READ MORE >
Debi Hartford from Thurston and Peters Sugar House in Shapleigh visited MCS second graders to share the process of making maple syrup. The kids learned the different ways sap is collected and that it takes 40 gallons of sap to make just one gallon of syrup! The students also tasted maple syrup and learned the difference between store bought syrup and real maple... READ MORE >
This year our kindergarten teachers are piloting a phonics program by Lucy Calkin. This program fits in well with her reading and writing programs that we use. Part of what our students are learning to do is to quickly recognize high frequency words. The quick recognition of these high frequency words or "Snap Words" enables readers to quickly read and then... READ MORE >
What a delight it was when Mrs. Ackroyd brought her students to visit the office today. Her students have been learning how words work and their latest victory was leaning about the word part "ing". Mrs. Ackroyd's kindergarten students demonstrated for us that by knowing "ing" they were able to create new words when they add "ing" to the end such as run -... READ MORE >
The Sanford Schools Annual Art Show will be held at the new Sanford High School/Sanford Regional Vocational Center on Friday and Saturday, April 5th and 6th from 6:00 pm to 8:30 pm. On Tuesday, April 9th and Wednesday, April 10th, the show will run from 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm. READ MORE >
Margaret Chase Smith School held their annual “ Reading Under the Stars” event on the evening of March 26th. Upon arrival, each family received a bag filled with a variety of wonderful books to enjoy at home. Each bag contained an assortment of genres and interest. Students and their families had a fun filled evening of reading, participating in a book swap... READ MORE >
1st graders have been learning about different reading strategies they can use and to add these strategies to their "reading tool box". This Thursday I had the opportunity to hear some of Mrs. Morrison's 1st graders read. When I asked them which strategy they were using, the students were excited to share that they might have been using a "running start",... READ MORE >
Margaret Chase Smith School's PTA hosted a Family Paint Night this Thursday. For a very low cost students and their family came to MCS and had the chains to express their creativity through painting. The event was limited to only 40 participants and everything went smoothly. It was noted that we had many creative painters attend this great event. READ MORE >
Monday we were treated to a wonderful lesson on how maple syrup is made. High school students Julia, Kayla, and Lindsay read a story about making maple syrup, brought us REAL maple syrup to try and made us maple syrup scented play dough that was made in the colors of the natural grade of the syrup. The high schools students are from SRTC ‘s Horticulture... READ MORE >
Students from the SRTC Landscaping program and the Early Childhood Education program visited several classrooms at MCS and read the book "Maple Syrup from the Sugarhouse", by Laurie Lazarro Knowlton and illustrated by Kathryn Mitter. After the read aloud, the students were able to taste test two types of maple syrup (real and fake), and then the students charted... READ MORE >
To bring some sunshine into this cold, long winter Mrs. Carman's First graders decided it would be fun to read at the beach. We had a big sun, a picture of the beach on the board, and our beach was complete with the sound of waves crashing on to the shore. The first graders spread out their beach towels, put on their sun glasses, and grabbed a good book to read. ... READ MORE >
After reading the book, Kindness is Cooler, Mrs. Ruler, Mrs. Deschambault's students had a homework assignment to do 5 acts of kindness at home each night for 3 nights. The rainbow is a collection of their acts of kindness. READ MORE >
The Green and Yellow Rooms read non-fiction books about penguins. There are 17 species of penguins; one being the crested penguin like these Rockhoppers.Mrs. Parker’s classMs. Michaud’s class READ MORE >
As I was walking through the building I came upon Mrs. Werner's kindergartners learning about "Force and Motion" through our Mystery Science. I watched as Mrs. Werner's students heard a story about a student bowling with his family and then the students Ade the connection that the further a ball is moved back, it is released with more force. One students was... READ MORE >
Our second graders are starting or getting ready to start their next unit in writing which is about poetry. One of the skills being taught is to look at the world around us through a different lens or perspective. Mrs. Longfish provided her students with some fancy eyewear so, that her students could get the idea of looking through a different lens. READ MORE >
On Friday afternoon the students and staff gathered at the new addition to watch the last beam being lifted into position. READ MORE >
During the early half of February our PTA had a Coin Clash Challenge. The Challenge was for every class to decorate a jug to collect coins and to see which class could collect the most money. It was a fun challenge and our school raised $741.67 The winner for the BEST DECORATED COLLECTION JUG was Mrs Morrison's class! They won a basket full of art supplies. ... READ MORE >
Second graders in Mrs. Arnold’s room celebrated Dr. Seuss’ Birthday Friday by participating in Read Across America. Families joined and read with the children, listened to poetry they wrote, and enjoyed projects they made in Celebration of Dr. Seuss books. He would have been 115 years old this year. READ MORE >
Before our February break the students and staff at our school were participating in Kindness Activities. As a school, students and staff were sending notes, cards and snacks to the workers assigned to the construction of our new addition. The project is progressing and the construction crew is getting ready to hang the last major beam to the additions’ frame. ... READ MORE >
The Kindergartener’s celebrated the 100th day of school in different ways. Mrs. Parker’s class made crowns that said “100 days smarter” Mrs. Civiello’s class made trail mix by counting 10 of 10 different snacks to make 100. Students in Ms. Michaud’s class decorated t-shirts with 100 dots and made crowns.Mrs. Ackroyd’s students also made crowns. The pictures... READ MORE >
We are pleased to see the progress that is being made with the construction to the addition to Margaret Chase Smith School. Additional steel has been hung that has expanded to the back of our school. When looking at the construction project from a distance you can really see the outline of the school's addition taking shape. READ MORE >
Last week brought in the phase where the process of hanging steel began. It is exciting to see the shape of the addition take place. Pictured is steel being hung for our new gym. READ MORE >
Today is the 100th day of school for our students in 1st, 2nd and 3rd grades. To celebrate this benchmark in the school year students and staff were encouraged to dress up to look like they wee 100 years old. Some of our students and staff members got right into the spirit of the day. We even had two students dress up; one as Jackie Robinson since he would have... READ MORE >
Last week I posted some pictures from a lesson where our 3rd graders were linking the Maine Learning Result standard about weaving to the work by artist Gustav Klimpt. Above is an example of Gustav Klimpt's work comparing a model's portrait to his version using weaves and symbols. Below are some pictures of our 3rd graders' art work in this style. Enjoy! ... READ MORE >
This Friday will be the 100th day of school for students in grades 1-3. To celebrate, students and staff are encouraged to dress up like they are 100 years old. The tooth day of kindergarteners will be the Tuesday after winter break, February 26th. Pictured are some of Mrs. Arnold's second graders where she used an app that shows what someone looks like when... READ MORE >
Kindergarten Welcome to Sanford Public Schools! We are excited to have your child join us for Kindergarten. If your child turns 5 on or before October 15, 2019, you are welcome to register him/her for school beginning February 14th. To register please call the elementary school closest to your home address. Lafayette School: Principal Sharon Remick at... READ MORE >
Here is the list of Terrific Kids for the week ending on February 8th. Terrific Kids: Kindergarten – Dylan Thomas, Lily Burnell, Ian Wells, Gabriella Bradwell 1stgrade– Yanellis Escobar, Brasin Harriman 2nd grade – Michael Scofield, Cael Gagne, Austin Frazier, Jayden Attardi Trinity White 3rdgrade– Jackson Stimmell, Gen McInerney, Olivia... READ MORE >
This a reminder that our PTA is sponsoring a "Coin Clash" between the classrooms. All coins collected will help the PTA in their efforts to support enrichment activities for our students via: field trips, guest speakers, family events and more. The challenge begins February 1st and ends this Tuesday, February 12th. Prizes will be awarded for the best decorated... READ MORE >
Students are already mid-way through this years Chickadee Award book nominees. Students will submit their vote for favorite book and the winner will be announced this spring. The annual Chickadee Award began back in 2005 and is named after Maine’s state bird. The goal of the award is for children to develop an appreciation of outstanding writing and illustration in... READ MORE >
Second graders at MCS enjoyed a lesson about hedgehogs and then created a fused glass animal with Mrs. Cheryl Rhoda from Glasworx in Sanford. The day before, the students watched a Mystery Science lesson about glassmaking. The hedgehog has to be baked at over 1,500 degrees before it's complete. Did you know that they have 5,000-6,000 spikes on their back and a... READ MORE >
Even with the adverse weather conditions construction on the addition to Margaret Chase Smith School continues. Last week brought below zero days and a snow storm. However, the crews working on the project kept plugging along. Enjoy the next two photos. One of the photos shows the rebar work that has been placed on one of the structural pads. The other photo... READ MORE >
As I was walking around the school I came upon a third grade art lesson. The art standard was to learn about weaving. Mrs. Lewin-Grover, our art teacher, had the students learn about weaving and then create their own paper weave. To expand upon this standard the students then learned about an artist whose technique was to draw portraits of people and their hands... READ MORE >
With the Super Bowl just days away, many of our students (and staff) are thinking about the New England Patriots playing in the big game. To build on this exciting time, students and staff had the chance to wear their favorite NFL team's apparel. It was not surprising to see that the most popular team apparel worn was for the Patriots. READ MORE >
While I was walking through classroom I came upon Mrs. Werner's kindergarten class. What drew me in was the discussion the class was having about dinosaurs. Mrs. Werner was reading the book "Dinosaur, Dinosaur" aloud to the class. after each page Mrs. Werner would prompt the students to notice the special feature each dinosaur had such as spikes, horns or... READ MORE >
This a reminder that our PTA is sponsoring a "Coin Clash" between the classrooms. All coins collected will help the PTA in their efforts to support enrichment activities for our students via: field trips, guest speakers, family events and more. The challenge begins February 1st and ends February 12th. Prizes will be awarded for the best decorated coin collection... READ MORE >
The second grade science unit is Material Magic this trimester. The science unit develops the idea that by taking advantage of the properties of materials we can solve many problems in our lives. Through this unit students have been exploring the material properties involved in meeting basic needs. In this lesson the students used materials to invent something that... READ MORE >
In an effort to help her students become better readers and writers, Mrs. Arnold invited Mrs. Butler, our speech teacher, to speak to her students about hearing and recording sounds. Mrs. Butler led the students through several exercises where students not only recognized sounds auditory but by how their mouths were formed when making the sounds. The students... READ MORE >
During MCS's Christmas event, one of the raffle prizes was a lunch date with our mayor. Emma (pictured standing next to Mayor Cote) was the winner of this raffle prize. Today Mayor Cote arrived at MCS and provided lunch for Emma and three of her friends. When I asked Emma what was her favorite part of her lunch with Mayor Cote. She said the smile on his face... READ MORE >
This is a list of our Terrific Kids from last Friday, January 19th.Terrific Kids: Kindergarten – Jordan Charlton, Baylaa Allen, Abe Plumer, Ben Fowler, Tommy Watkins, Henry Neil 1stgrade– Emma Higgins, Remington Marshall, Eamon McGuckin-Welsch 2nd grade – Michael Scofield, Carter Skahan, Avery Wedge, Tyler Otis, ... READ MORE >
Even with the cold weather the work continues on the addition to our school. Pictured below are construction workers setting reinforcing rods for the foundation. The next picture is of construction workers pouring concrete for another structural pad. READ MORE >
Despite the cold weather, snow and ice progress is happening for the foundation to our new addition. Pictured is one of the pads that was poured. A poured pad for our addition. READ MORE >
Here is the list of last week's Terrific Kids.Terrific Kids: Kindergarten – Owen Janousek, Sydney Antkowski, Andrew Purdy, Zariah Ricker, Drew Werner, Crew Chasse 1st grade – Vivian Olivo, Heyden Van Nest, Caleb Smith, Tyler Termath Evalynn Christovao, Carson Lester, Camden Randall 2nd grade – Daivik Chase, Tucker Bailey, Raven Cormiea,... READ MORE >
Margaret Chase Smith first graders celebrated the end of their Learning About the World nonfiction reading unit by becoming teachers. They worked on reading their books, marking interesting spots, and adding drama into their read alouds. They planned their expert read alouds for a kindergarten class. First graders took their job very seriously, and the ... READ MORE >
In kindergarten, the students learn strategies that all good readers use. In our reading program these strategies are referred to as super powers. The picture is of Mrs. Ackroyd's kindergarten class's bulletin board where the students are asking everyone to inquire about their super powers. READ MORE >
Students in Mrs. Hussey's class were counting, comparing, and adding sets using the appropriate math symbols in their project based learning activity. This student is explaining his math problem to Willow. READ MORE >
Mrs. Parker’s kindergarten class was studying “capacity” during their math lesson. They used different containers and water to show which has more capacity. READ MORE >
Kindergarten at Margaret Chase Smith School received a visit from Wildlife Encounters out of Barrington, NH on Friday. Derek, the presenter introduced 6 animals to the students, discussed their habitats and the adaptations the animals use to survive. Students were given the opportunity to touch two of the animals. What a great experience for all! READ MORE >
Mr. Potter read the book "Over the Snow, Under the Snow" to all the students. Mrs. Butler and Mr. Pickering led the school in singing holiday songs. READ MORE >
Tuesday, Ms. McGuiggin's second grade students invited family and friends to see their Space Museum. Ms. McGuiggin's had to research and find facts about a planet they selected. Her students worked on how to use secondary research resources; take down notes; work collaboratively; and organize their writing to educate the visitors to their museum. Ms. McGuiggin's... READ MORE >
While I was walking about the building I came upon Mr. Bell's kindergarten students working on their stories. I watched as Mr. Bell and his ed tech, Mrs. Smith, go to each table to assist students in organizing their thoughts for their stories, how to use their SNAP words (High frequency words) to help them write the words in their stories; and to help students... READ MORE >
I had the opportunity to watch Mrs. Werner's kindergarten students retell the story, The Gingerbread Man. During this unit students practiced retelling a story identifying characters and settings. The students also learned to sound like the characters, feel what the characters are feeling and thinking of punctuation to figure these things out. Pictured is the... READ MORE >
Mrs. Longfish’s second graders shared their “How to” writing with their parents and guests. This event was a celebration for finishing their non-fiction writing unit. Each student wrote and illustrated a book that shared facts about a chosen topic or how to do something such as make a PB&J sandwich. It was great to see so many adults taking an interest in the... READ MORE >
Margaret Chase Smith School Weekly Update December 17, 2018 Hello, this is the last week of school before the holiday break. Students will be off from school from December 24th to January 1st. Everyone returns on Wednesday, January 2, 2019. This will also be the last newsletter too. When we return I will be posting all our updates on the new Sanford School... READ MORE >
That was the theme for last Friday’s “Do The Right Thing” rally. Led by Ms. Perrin’s third grade students, everyone learned several ways to be kind. Students also had the opportunity to observe an experiment that was led by Marvin aka. Steve Butler, where he used candy Skittles and hot water to show us how kindness can be spread to everyone. He then challenged... READ MORE >
While walking around the building I stopped into Mrs. Leigh's second grade class. Her students were working on their nonfiction writing. The boys and girls wrote facts about a topic or a "How to" book about a topic they know well. Pictured are some of Mrs. Leigh's students sharing their writing with her. READ MORE >
Kindergarten students in Mrs. Michaud's and Mrs. Parker's classes practiced following directions and their fine motor skills by cutting and folding to make these festive Christmas trees. READ MORE >
Mrs. Suratt’s students were working on patterns, following directions, and having fun so, the student created their own sweaters. READ MORE >
Exciting news. Yesterday PC Construction started having concrete poured for the foundation to our addition. READ MORE >
Pictured is Mr. Wilson who is one of Sanford School Department's technology experts making a teaching point to Mrs. Arnold's second grade students. READ MORE >
Above is one of Mrs. Arnold's second grade students using an Osmo for practicing skills learned in class. READ MORE >
Students in second grade had an amazing opportunity to learn about and experience the amazing Osmo learning games. Mr. Wilson, one of the district’s technology experts, set up Osmos for the students to practice coding, counting money, spelling, creative thinking and drawing, as well as adding and subtracting. Submitted by Mrs. Arnold. READ MORE >
On Friday, Ms Badger's kindergarten students were learning how to read and write the number 9. READ MORE >
Pictured is Mr. Wilkins, one of our P.E. and health teachers, teaching some kindergarten students about nutrition. READ MORE >
During a walk-through Mrs. Daly came upon Mrs. Parker's kindergarten students who were reviewing what syllables are. READ MORE >
The K students in Mrs. Werner’s class we’re learning about the uppercase letter P. READ MORE >
Pictured is one of the sections for the foundation of our school's addition. READ MORE >
Progress is occurring for Margaret Chase Smith School's addition. For the last two weeks the site for the addition has had work to prepare for the pouring of the footings and foundation. The footings have been framed; the ground prepared; steel tied in; and since there has been winter like temperatures the ground has to be heated and a heating blanket placed over... READ MORE >
Sanford’s kindergarten teacher are piloting a phonics program by Lucy Calkins that dovetails well with the writing and reading strategies her programs teach. One of the phonic units has students learning to be “Word Scientists”. This is where students explore letter sounds and how words work. Sophia and Amelia are Kindergarten “word scientists" from Ms. Badger's... READ MORE >
Mrs. Ackroy’s kindergarteners are using their iPads to practice their rhyming. READ MORE >
Our kindergarten students are learning to be Super Readers. Their teachers are teaching them some strategies to help their students become readers. One of the first strategies students are taught is to point and match each word on the page with a word that he/she reads. Pictured is one of Mrs. Ackroyd's student practicing his one to one matching as he reads. READ MORE >
Mrs. Daly's 3rd graders introduced to our kindergartners all about our "The Right Thing to Do" Rally. READ MORE >
Building Construction Update: The construction of our addition has slowed down. PC Construction has been looking for a company that can put in the footing and foundation for our school. The good news is that PC Construction has found a company and they are projecting that work on the foundation will begin after Thanksgiving. Shaw’s Brothers continues to... READ MORE >
Ms. Hastings, Margaret Chase Smith's music teacher, led the third graders through a variety of songs that celebrated our veterans' service to our country. READ MORE >
Pictured are some of the decorations students made for the school's Veteran's Day Ceremony. READ MORE >
Wednesday, November 7th, Margaret Chase Smith School honored military personnel during their annual Veteran's Day Ceremony. Pictured is all of MCS's students, faculty and honored guests outside and in front of the school's flagpole to watch the raising of our U.S., State of Maine and M.I.A./P.O.W. flags raised by SAD 57's ROTC students. After everyone recited the... READ MORE >
MCS students honor our veterans at a ceremony held at the school on Wednesday, November 7th. Watch the video by clicking here. READ MORE >
Please see the links below for drone videos of construction at the MCS site produced by Sarah Schnell at WSSR-TV and part of the video production class at Sanford Regional Technical Center. Sarah produces these videos about every two weeks. Click this link to watch video READ MORE >
First Day of Kindergarten at MCS Submitted by MCS Principal Chuck Potter. Last Thursday was the first day of school for our kindergarteners. The day before was an Open House at Margaret Chase Smith School which was just for our kindergarten students and their parents. The Open House allowed students and parents to meet their teachers for the year and start to... READ MORE >