Youth health advocate Robb Holla visited Sanford Middle School last Friday to speak with 6th and 7th graders about the very real dangers of vaping. Known for his ability to connect with young audiences across North America, Holla brought his signature blend of straight talk, humor, and hard-hitting facts to engage students on one of today's most pressing health issues. Principal Joe Mastraccio was enthusiastic about the visit: "We are excited to share an impactful visit from our guest speaker this past Friday! Robb's message was empowering and aimed to help students realize the power they have to be healthy, successful and happy. We are incredibly grateful to Robb for taking the time to speak with our students and for sharing such an important and motivating message. His words truly make an impact!" Holla, who has dedicated his career to empowering teens to make smart, independent choices, drew on real stories to drive his message home. His presentation covered the science behind why developing brains are especially vulnerable to nicotine addiction, how vaping restricts blood flow and hurts athletic performance, and why products marketed as "safe alternatives" are anything but — producing harmful aerosol particles and metals rather than harmless vapor.  Throughout, Holla kept the focus on empowering students to think for themselves. "I'm not here to scare you or give you one little answer," he told students. "I want you to make it your own mind, your own life." Holla also reminded students that help is available and free. Those looking to quit can text DITCH VAPE to 88709 for confidential, research-backed support shown to increase quit rates significantly. Parents are encouraged to keep the conversation going at home. Ask your child what resonated with them, and remind them that trusted adults — whether a parent, teacher, nurse, or counselor — are always there to help
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Sanford's student musicians took the stage on March 10th for the 37th Annual Sanford Band Fest, showcasing the talents of students from 5th grade through high school. March is Music in Our Schools Month, and there was no better way to celebrate than with a night full of live music performed by Sanford's own talented young musicians! From 5th graders performing their first melodies to high schoolers tackling complex film scores, the evening was a wonderful reminder of the vibrant music community thriving in Sanford's schools. The evening opened with the 5th Grade Band, directed by Mr. Jacob Morese, performing "Hot Cross Buns" and "Mary Had a Little Lamb." The 6th Grade Band, also under Mr. Morese's direction, followed with "Base-Six" by Laura Estes. The 7th and 8th Grade Bands, led by Mr. Josh Hyssong, brought more advanced repertoire to the stage. The 7th graders performed "Above and Beyond" by James Swearingen and "Ever-Hope" by Carol Brittin Chambers, while the 8th graders took on "Invincible" by Robert W. Smith and "Celtic Air and Dance" by Michael Sweeney. The High School Band, directed by Ms. Hailey Francoeur, closed out the individual performances with "Pirates of the Caribbean: At World's End" by Hans Zimmer and the crowd-pleasing "The Great Rubber Chicken Gallop" by Randall Standridge. The concert concluded with a combined performance featuring all 6th through 12th grade students coming together to perform the "6 Note Folk Song Suite," arranged by Joseph Compello — a fitting finale celebrating the breadth of Sanford's music program.
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Sanford's Got Talent Returns to Sanford Middle School for Another Spectacular Night
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Spring Sing at the Performing Arts Center
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