Sanford Pride Elementary 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 Sanford Pride 2nd Grade Teacher Sami Creech. How long have you been working in the Sanford School Department? This is my first year at Sanford Pride, and I taught 4th grade at Margaret Chase Smith during the 2023-2024 school year (so 2 years). What is your favorite part about working in Sanford? Throughout the schools, I have seen a genuine love for working with kids and wanting them to succeed from the staff. I am thankful to work in a district that puts students first and does what they can to support each student and their individual needs. What’s your favorite TV show or movie? My favorite tv shows are Law and Order, Bob's Burgers, and The Office. I've loved The Incredibles since I was a kid. If you could describe yourself in three words, what would they be? Sassy, talkative, and inquisitive. If you could visit any place in the world, where would it be? I would love to visit Italy and explore the historical architecture and relax! Iced Coffee or Hot Coffee? Iced coffee, even during a blizzard. Playlists or Podcasts? Music playlists for sure, podcasts for long rides. Ocean or Lake? Even though I grew up in Kennebunk, I have to go with lakes... the ocean is too cold! Sunrise or Sunset? Sunset, I am a night owl. Facebook or Instagram? Instagram.

Employee Spotlight

September 15, 2025

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@san...

September is School Attendance Awareness Month!

September 11, 2025

Governor Janet Mills has proclaimed September as School Attendance Awareness Month in Maine, and we are excited to join schools across our state in celebrating the importance of b...

Your Right to Know: Teacher and Paraprofessional Qualification Information

September 11, 2025

On December 10, 2015, President Barack Obama signed the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) into law. ESSA replaces the No Child Left Behind Act (NCLB). In accordance with ESSA, sc...

The Sanford School Department recently hosted its annual District-Wide Welcome Back Event at the Sanford Performing Arts Center, bringing together faculty, staff, and administrators from across all schools to celebrate the start of the 2025-26 academic year. The gathering began with a performance from the Sanford High School Chamber Singers, featuring students Ava Allen, Callia Curtis, Avila Cyr, Rebecca Horton, Jordyn Martin, Cynthia Carroll, Keaghan Gagnon, Will Kane, Logan Hamblin, and Evan Lynch. Under the direction of Sanford High School music teacher Ryan Geary, these students took time to rehearse during the summer before taking the stage. Following their musical presentation, each student introduced themselves, shared which schools they attended, and spoke about teachers who've had a lasting impact on their academic journey so far. School Committee Chair Amy Sevigny then delivered opening remarks that challenged both new and veteran staff members to be supportive colleagues. "I want you to all think about when you were that new person on the job, whatever job that was. Do you still remember the first person or the people that welcomed you and made you feel part of the team?" She challenged staff to be supportive, collaborative, encouraging, respectful, and positive colleagues. Whatever the day brings, be the coworker that you want to have. Because a strong school community thrives when each member feels valued and supported. Sanford Superintendent Matt Nelson expressed deep gratitude for the collaborative efforts throughout the district. "I want to thank you as our faculty and staff for all that you do for our students and what you do each and every day with them," Nelson said. A significant portion of the event welcomed new staff members joining the Sanford team across all district schools, including all elementary schools, middle and high school, SRTC and SCAE Adult Ed. The presentation also included Superintendent Nelson introducing the district's updated mission to "prepare all students with future-ready skills and knowledge to empower success in a rapidly changing world" for the first time to staff after it was recently approved by the School Committee. This mission is supported by Core Principles and Beliefs on Learning that focus on creating safe learning environments, developing future-ready skills, ensuring equitable access, adapting learning systems, and strengthening community collaboration. These principles work together to support the district's Portrait of a Future-Ready Graduate vision, preparing students to be critical thinkers and creative problem-solvers, emotionally intelligent collaborators, adaptable and resilient individuals, engaged citizens, and lifelong learners.

Sanford School Department Welcomes Staff for 2025-26 Year

August 29, 2025

The Sanford School Department recently hosted its annual District-Wide Welcome Back Event at the Sanford Performing Arts Center, bringing together faculty, staff, and administrat...

Sanford School Department Welcomes New Teachers for 2025-2026 School Year

August 27, 2025

The Sanford School Department started the new academic year on a high note, welcoming its newest educators with an extensive orientation day at Sanford High School on Tuesday, Au...

The 2025-2026 bus routes for the Sanford School Department are now available on Versatrans. On Tuesday, August 19th, emails were sent to parents/guardians with transportation information and Student ID numbers. If you did not receive an email, please contact your child's school to verify your email address and obtain your child's Student ID number. Please note, due to a bus driver shortage, some bus routes have been combined to begin the school year. This change will result in longer ride times for some students. We appreciate your patience as we continue to search for additional drivers. If you are interested in becoming a driver or monitor, contact Ledgemere, our transportation provider. If you have any questions, please call your child’s school directly or Ledgemere at 207-324-4888.

Bus Transportation For The 2025-2026 School Year

August 20, 2025

The 2025-2026 bus routes for the Sanford School Department are now available on Versatrans . On Tuesday, August 19th, emails were sent to parents/guardians with transportation i...

Pops on the Playground

August 11, 2025

Please join the SPE PTA on the playground at Pride before open house for Pops on the Playground.

Stuff The Bus

August 6, 2025

A Message from Stuff the Bus To families of students attending Sanford schools for the 2025-2026 school year: On Saturday, August 23rd, 2025 , Stuff the Bus Maine will hold it...

Two Sanford School District educators, Terri Gerrish of Pride Elementary and Kendra Marley of Carl J. Lamb Elementary, were recently recognized as "Outstanding Early Childhood Professionals" during the Week of the Young Child, a celebration highlighting the importance of early childhood education and the professionals who nurture children during this critical developmental stage.

Two Sanford Educators Honored as Outstanding Early Childhood Professionals

May 1, 2025

(Terri Gerrish, left, and Kendra Marley, right) Two Sanford School District educators, Terri Gerrish of Pride Elementary and Kendra Marley of Carl J. Lamb Elementary, were r...

Sanford Pride Elementary School recently held its annual Celebration of Learning event, featuring a vibrant art show and grade-level concerts showcasing student talent and creativity. The week-long celebration took place April 14-17, just before April vacation. Families were invited to explore the school's hallways, which were transformed into art galleries displaying student artwork and classroom exhibits that had been months in the making. Each evening featured musical performances from different grade levels, with kindergarten and first grade performing Monday, second and third grades on Tuesday, and fourth grade closing the celebration on Thursday. Music teacher Meghan Mannino expressed her pride in the students' accomplishments: "Students in grades K-4 work on concert music, art projects, and classroom exhibits over several months. This week, students finally had their special nights to share their learning with family members, friends, teachers, and the community." The event was well-attended across all three evenings, with packed audiences enjoying the fruits of the students' hard work. "Their excitement and smiles were contagious during the performances," noted Mannino. "The art- and project-filled hallways also looked colorful and absolutely amazing."

Celebration of Learning at Sanford Pride Elementary

April 24, 2025

Sanford Pride Elementary School recently held its annual Celebration of Learning event, featuring a vibrant art show and grade-level concerts showcasing student talent and creativ...

Sanford Pride Elementary School hosted its first Volunteer Appreciation Ceremony on Friday morning, April 11th, in the school cafeteria. The event recognized dedicated individuals who have given their time and talents to support students and staff throughout the school year. The ceremony highlighted the diverse volunteers who contribute to the school community, including parents, former employees, Sanford High School and Middle School students, PTA members, and participants in the school's mentorship program. Classroom teachers took turns honoring their volunteers. Pre-K teacher Gwynne Tounge recognized Paul Casavant, known as "Mr. C," describing him as "the most dedicated and caring person" who "brings smiles, joy, and happiness to our pre-K every day." His impact extends beyond current students, as former Pre-K student Abby Plumpton shared, "I love to see Mr. C in the morning and give him a hug!" High school seniors pursuing education careers were among those recognized. 3rd Grade Teacher Haley Kennedy honored Hazel Bouchard, who helps with math while maintaining "a smile and a great attitude." Arianna Ramini was praised for her work completing the SRTC program in elementary education before attending the University of Maine at Orono this fall. Cole Adawadkar, who volunteers in Grade 4, was recognized for supporting students both in the classroom and through sports activities. The school's PTA officers—Sara Gildart, Niki Langlois, Kaity Getchell, and Robyn Howe—were acknowledged for organizing school activities, providing supplies, and supporting field trips. "We're very fortunate and grateful to have such a supportive PTA at Pride," Daly said. Principal Inman also highlighted the school's mentoring program, which pairs adults with third-grade students during lunch and recess. Ben England was recognized for his mentorship, along with Elissa Brewster and Michelle Vessels who were unable to attend. The mentors help "build students' aspirations, build their confidence, and let them think about how school is important." Although not all volunteers could attend, each will receive a certificate of appreciation through their respective classroom teachers. The complete list of recognized volunteers included classroom helpers across all grade levels, from Pre-K through Grade 4. The ceremony concluded with Principal Inman thanking all volunteers "for giving so generously of your time and talents" before students returned to their classrooms.

Sanford Pride Elementary Honors Dedicated Volunteers at First Recognition Ceremony

April 11, 2025

Sanford Pride Elementary School hosted its first Volunteer Appreciation Ceremony on Friday morning, April 11th, in the school cafeteria. The event recognized dedicated individual...

Kindergarten Exploration Event Draws Strong Turnout

April 8, 2025

The Sanford School Department successfully hosted its Kindergarten Exploration Event last Thursday, April 3, welcoming over 50 families across its elementary schools. The event, ...

Sanford Elementary Schools Unite with First Responders for Charity Basketball Game

March 18, 2025

The Sanford Pride Elementary gymnasium was filled with excitement and community spirit last Thursday, March 13, as teachers and staff faced off against local first responders in ...

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oOTdtQpJvYY

Spring Sing at the Performing Arts Center

March 11, 2025

The Sanford Performing Arts Center filled with families and friends on Wednesday, March 5th, as students from across the district showcased their talents at the annual Spring Si...

The Sanford School Department successfully hosted its first District-Wide Kindergarten Registration Night on Wednesday, February 26th at Sanford Pride Elementary School. The well-attended event transformed the school's cafeteria into a hub of activity as families with incoming kindergartners explored their first step into school. Staff members wearing red shirts were stationed at tables throughout the room, guiding families through the registration process. Parents and their children completed necessary paperwork while learning about the kindergarten program. Several children participated in craft activities set up specifically to engage them during the registration process.The school nutrition department also provided snacks for the children, giving families a taste of the healthy options available during the school year. What made the evening truly special was the community's enthusiastic support. Representatives from more than a dozen local organizations surrounded the room, ready to connect with families and offer resources. Community organizations included MaineHealth-Partners for a Healthier Community, Sanford Backpack Program, Help Me Grow, Kids Free to Grow, United Way, York County Community Action Corporation (YCCAC), Headstart, First4ME, Kids Kove Childcare and Learning Center, Curtis Lake Church Early Learning Center, Little World 2, and Girl Scouts of Maine. All three elementary school PTAs were also represented. Families also had the opportunity to meet with various school support teams, including counselors, social workers, nurses, and special education staff—putting friendly faces to the extensive network that will help nurture their children's growth. Missed the registration night? No need to worry! Families can still register their kindergartners by calling the Sanford School Department at 324-2810. Current Pre-K students are automatically registered but were welcome at the event to experience this exciting preview of their kindergarten adventure.

Sanford School Department Welcomes Future Kindergartners at Registration Night

February 27, 2025

The Sanford School Department successfully hosted its first District-Wide Kindergarten Registration Night on Wednesday, February 26th at Sanford Pride Elementary School. The well...

Sanford Schools Launch 'Kindergarten Trail' for Fall 2025 Registration

Sanford School Department Launches 'Kindergarten Trail' for Fall 2025 Registration

February 18, 2025

The Sanford School Department is excited to welcome new students to the "Kindergarten Trail" - a series of fun and informative events designed to make each child's transition to ...

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Pre-K Lottery Information

February 4, 2025

We are excited to share information with you regarding the Sanford Public School Pre-Kindergarten (Pre-K) programs for the 2025-2026 school year. In September, we expect to conti...

February First 10 Newsletter

February 3, 2025

Join First 10 Sanford for an exciting February filled with community events and family engagement opportunities. Our spotlight features the Community Wide Kindergarten Registratio...

Employee Spotlight

January 30, 2025

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@sa...

Sanford Pride Elementary School teacher Michelle Payeur has joined a group of New England educators nominated for the 2024 Wasabi Fenway Bowl Honor Roll, a program celebrating teachers who make extraordinary contributions to their students and communities. Payeur was selected from a pool of over 1,000 nominated educators across New England for this recognition, which celebrates education professionals who have gone above and beyond to support their students and communities. The news of this honor arrived with an unexpected email notification. "At first, I almost deleted the email thinking it was spam," Payeur said. "But when I saw it mentioned Fenway, I decided to take a closer look. I'm really glad I did." The honor came with an invitation to attend the 2024 Wasabi Fenway Bowl on December 28th – the first college football bowl game ever played at Fenway Park and the first Division 1 bowl game in New England history. A Sanford success story herself, Payeur graduated from Sanford High School in 2004 before pursuing her education degree at the University of Maine. She returned to her hometown to begin her teaching career in 2009. What makes this recognition even more special is its roots in the local community – the nomination came from someone who knows Payeur's impact firsthand: a building substitute teacher whose child spent two years in her classroom. During the bowl game celebration, Payeur had the opportunity to connect with fellow honored educators from across New England. "It was incredible to meet other educators and hear their stories," she said."Despite teaching different grade levels and subjects, we found so many similarities in our experiences." Each year, the Wasabi Fenway Bowl Honor Roll selects 15 outstanding educators from the nominee pool to receive special recognition and financial support for their educational initiatives. While Payeur wasn't among the final 15 selected, her nomination highlights the exceptional work being done in Sanford's classrooms every day. "It's very special," Payeur said. "Being recognized by someone who has seen your work both as a colleague and as a parent makes it particularly meaningful. Sanford has been my home since I was a student myself, and now I get to give back to the community that helped shape who I am."

Sanford Pride Teacher Named to Prestigious Fenway Bowl Honor Roll

January 21, 2025

Sanford Pride Elementary School teacher Michelle Payeur has joined a group of New England educators nominated for the 2024 Wasabi Fenway Bowl Honor Roll, a program celebrating t...