Sanford School Department

There's no single "right answer" in engineering, and that's exactly what makes SRTC’s Engineering Technologies Program so exciting. Instructor Ethan Mathieu loves seeing the creativity his students bring to solving problems, with each one of them finding their own approach to the same engineering challenge. This two-year program at Sanford Regional Technical Center serves as a launchpad for students heading to university engineering programs, exposing them to the engineering design process, diverse engineering disciplines, and the knowledge and skills they'll need to succeed at the college level. Mathieu brings both electrical engineering and educational experience to the classroom, approaching instruction with a growth mindset philosophy.What he enjoys most about teaching the program is witnessing student ingenuity in action. "There's so many ways to approach a problem," Mathieu explained. "It's always pleasantly surprising to see the different creative solutions my students find to approach the engineering problems we encounter in class." Students explore the engineering design process from concept to implementation, learning about different disciplines and the career paths available in the field. The program goes beyond theoretical knowledge by having students apply math and science concepts to develop and include solutions to authentic engineering problems using industry-standard tools, equipment, and technology. For second-year student Ethan Hafenecker, the program has provided clarity about his future path. "SRTC has made me smarter and more prepared for my life and future," Hafenecker said. "I have an idea of what I want to do and what I can expect to get into after graduating." His experience reflects how the program helps students discover their career direction while building practical skills. The program provides opportunities that extend beyond the classroom walls. Recently, students traveled to the University of Maine for the Windstorm Challenge, where they tested floating platforms in a wave pool and presented their engineering process to a panel of judges. These experiences give students authentic exposure to university-level engineering work while still in high school. Students can earn the NOCTI Pre-Engineering Certificate, demonstrating their competency in foundational engineering principles to colleges and employers. The program is currently working to establish a concurrent enrollment agreement with Southern Maine Community College, which would allow future students to earn college credits while completing the program, giving them an even greater head start on their engineering education. For Mathieu, the real reward goes beyond the equipment and credentials. Ultimately, it's about the students themselves. "My favorite part of SRTC is getting to meet students and seeing their skills as engineers grow and ideas come to life."

SRTC Program Highlight: Engineering Technologies

November 24, 2025

There's no single "right answer" in engineering, and that's exactly what makes SRTC’s Engineering Technologies Program so exciting. Instructor Ethan Mathieu loves seeing the creat...

Curriculum Newsletter

November 24, 2025

Click here to access the first edition of the district's Curriculum Newsletter for the 2025-2026 school year.

Students interested in healthcare careers will soon have a chance to explore five different pathways, learn from working professionals, and earn an automatic interview at Maine Health all within three months and at no cost. Sanford Community Adult Education is launching this pre-apprenticeship program through a new partnership with Maine Health. The hybrid program combines online learning modules with in-person classes at Sanford Community Adult Education. Students will explore five high-demand healthcare fields: Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA), Education Technician, Medical Assistant, Phlebotomy, and Psychiatric Technician. Throughout the three months, guest speakers who currently work in these roles will share their experiences, giving students a realistic picture of what these careers actually entail. Students who complete the pre-apprenticeship are automatically interviewed for positions at Maine Health. "This is a great way for students to dip their toes in without having this big commitment of taking on a training program or being hired," explains Sue Zimmer, who serves as the Maine College and Career Access Advisor at Sanford Community Adult Education. "They get to really figure out if it's really an interest for them." Many students think they're interested in healthcare, but the day-to-day reality can be quite different from what people imagine. This pre-apprenticeship gives students the chance to experience the field firsthand before committing to a full training program, helping them make informed decisions about their career path. The program can accommodate up to 100 students and is open to anyone ages 17 and older who is interested in healthcare careers. Participants do not need a high school diploma, and students from any community are welcome. For students who may have applied to other CNA programs but weren't accepted, this partnership offers an alternative pathway into the healthcare field. Sanford Community Adult Education will provide the space, student registration, and support services, while Maine Health will supply the instructors, educational content, and guest speakers. The structure includes asynchronous online learning combined with on-campus meetings, allowing students to balance their education with work and personal responsibilities. For Jayne Perkins, Director of Sanford Community Adult Education, partnerships like this one represent exactly the kind of opportunity that can change lives. "It's probably the first time they've had such a positive opportunity, and to have someone walk them through it, step by step, give them the support," Perkins explains. "Rather than 'you need to go get a job,' it's 'let's help you. Let's do that.' So they get the opportunity, and they get the support. And as you see in graduation, they find success most of the time. It's the first time. So it's life changing for them."

Sanford Adult Education Partners with Maine Health for Career Training

November 24, 2025

Students interested in healthcare careers will soon have a chance to explore five different pathways, learn from working professionals, and earn an automatic interview at Maine He...

Sounds of the season in Sanford Nov. 30

November 20, 2025

SANFORD — The Strafford Wind Symphony returns to Sanford Performing Arts Center with its Holiday Pops concert that will fill your heart with the sights, the sounds, the spirit of...

Sanford Spotlight Newsletter

November 20, 2025

Click the link below to access the Sanford Spotlight Newsletter. https://tinyurl.com/ynz3eh32

StevieMac Fleetwood Mac Tribute Concert

November 19, 2025

SANFORD — StevieMac, a Fleetwood Mac and Stevie Nicks 'experience,"re-creates their most popular hits and the most memorable live performances one night only at the Sanford Perfo...

Inclement Weather Protocols

November 18, 2025

Dear Sanford School Department Parents and Guardians, Happy November! As winter approaches, I want to remind everyone of our weather-related protocols. When there is inclemen...

Sanford High Celebrates Fall Athletes at Record-Breaking Recognition Night

Sanford High School Celebrates Fall Athletes at Recognition Night

November 14, 2025

Sanford High School's Performing Arts Center filled with student-athletes, families, and coaches Thursday, November 13, as the school celebrated another successful fall athletic s...

Carl J. Lamb Elementary School held its third annual Veterans Day Celebration, featuring performances and an engaging history lesson that captivated students and honored local veterans. The assembly marked a special milestone for the school's youngest learners: it was the first-ever assembly for pre-kindergarten and kindergarten students, who demonstrated remarkable respect and patience throughout the program. Chief Jonathan Hotchkiss and his wife Jan presented a fascinating flag history demonstration, showing students historical American flags including the 1775 Navy flag with its red and white stripes and the Bunker Hill flag with its distinctive pine tree. Students learned how Maine's white pine trees were used to make ship masts and counted the 13 stripes representing the original colonies. Chief Hotchkiss also led students in the flag ceremony, along with two other veterans, Dennis Boyd, Sr. and Punky Noble. Second graders Wesley and Dennis had the honor of holding the flag. The school's show choir performed "Because of You," a tribute to veterans' service and sacrifice. Veterans were then invited to the front of the stage for a performance by all grades. Students dressed in red, white, and blue and performed songs including "Thank You to Our Veterans" and "The Star Spangled Banner" for what one second grader described as "like a billion veterans" gathered in the cafeteria. After practicing all week and having a dress rehearsal on Friday, students were excited to share their tribute. "It was awesome," said second grader Wesley, whose father attended the celebration. His classmate Evelyn's father helped with the flag ceremony, adding to the personal connections that made the day meaningful for both students and veterans alike.

Carl J. Lamb Elementary Hosts Third Annual Veterans Day Celebration

November 14, 2025

Carl J. Lamb Elementary School held its third annual Veterans Day Celebration, featuring performances and an engaging history lesson that captivated students and honored local vet...

Margaret Chase Smith School welcomed 65 veterans to their annual Veterans Day Breakfast, creating a morning filled with performances, poetry, and meaningful connections across generations. The celebration featured presentations from students across all grade levels. The Den Ambassadors, a ten-member fourth grade student leadership team, opened with an original poem honoring the courage and sacrifices of veterans. "Veterans are brave men and women who are still alive today. We thank them for their service and the price they choose to pay," the students recited. Second graders each shared poetry and performances they had practiced throughout the week. Fourth graders distributed handmade bookmarks to each veteran as keepsakes to remind them of the school's appreciation. The fourth grade chorus, under the direction of Miss. Hastings, performed a song about sacrifice and service, despite having only four practices since chorus began in mid-October. The entire school then joined together to sing the MCS school song. A particularly touching moment came when the school connected via video call with a father of two MCS students who is currently deployed in Saudi Arabia. Despite the time difference, he was able to join the breakfast virtually and see the presentations honoring his service and that of his fellow veterans. Among the 65 veterans in attendance was Sarge, a beloved Ledgemere bus driver, adding to the sense of community and connection throughout the morning.

Margaret Chase Smith Elementary Honors Veterans at Annual Breakfast

November 13, 2025

Margaret Chase Smith Elementary School welcomed veterans to their annual Veterans Day Breakfast, creating a morning filled with performances, poetry, and meaningful connections ac...

On Veterans Day, Sanford Pride's 4th grade chorus students traveled to Pinnacle Health in Sanford to honor local veterans with a special musical performance. What began as a simple visit turned into an unforgettable experience for both students and residents alike. The young singers delivered beautiful performances that filled the facility with joy, and each student had prepared handmade cards and letters to present to the veterans. While some children were initially shy about speaking with the residents, those hesitations quickly melted away as conversations began to flow naturally. By the time the bus arrived to take the students back to school, teachers found it nearly impossible to gather the group—the 4th graders were so engaged in their conversations with the veterans that they didn't want to leave! The feeling was clearly mutual, as several residents seemed delighted to welcome their "35 new grandchildren" for the afternoon. "It was a heartwarming, eye-opening, and positive experience for our students to have," said music teacher Meaghan Mannino. This intergenerational connection provided students with meaningful lessons that extended far beyond the music—about taking time to listen, connect, and show appreciation to those who have served our country.

Sanford Pride Chorus Students Honor Veterans Through Song at Pinnacle Health and Rehab

November 13, 2025

On Veterans Day, Sanford Pride's chorus students traveled to Pinnacle Health in Sanford to honor local veterans with a special musical performance. What began as a simple visit tu...

Four Sanford High Students Selected for Elite Regional Honors Choirs

Four Sanford High School Students Selected for Elite Regional Honors Choirs

November 13, 2025

Four Sanford High School vocalists have earned spots in the American Choral Directors Association (ACDA) Eastern Division Honors Choirs, a prestigious recognition that places them...

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1qJFIem5eNYsT5IRIKbWZYoQ_f3v5yzq4/view

The SMS Times: November Edition

November 12, 2025

Click here to read Sanford Middle's online newspaper, The SMS Times.

Sanford Students Explore Future Pathways at Career and College Fair

November 12, 2025

When Sanford Regional Technical Center student Autumn Liston entered Partners Bank Gymnasium for Thursday's Career and College Fair, she was planning to delay her education and wo...

Sanford High School Theater Company presents Thornton Wilder’s timeless American classic, Our Town at Sanford Performing Arts Center. Performances will be held on Friday, November 14 at 7 pm, Saturday, November 15 at 7 pm, and Sunday, November 16 at 2 pm. Set in the small town of Grover’s Corners, Our Town tells the universal story of everyday life, love, and loss. Through simple yet profound moments, the play invites audiences to reflect on what it means to truly appreciate the beauty in ordinary days. Wilder’s masterful storytelling continues to resonate with audiences nearly a century after its debut. This production features a cast of 22 talented SHS students, including Braeden Landry as the omniscient Stage Manager, Anna Brown as the spirited Emily Webb, and Jack Van Gieson as the earnest George Gibbs. “Our Town reminds us all to slow down and recognize the extraordinary in the everyday,” said director Brett Williams. “Our students have found deep meaning in this story, connecting its themes of family and friendship to their own experiences growing up in Sanford.” Tickets are $13 for adults, $10 for seniors and active military, and free for students. Come celebrate live theater and the remarkable work of Sanford’s young artists!

Sanford High School Theatre Company Presents "Our Town"

November 10, 2025

Sanford High School Theater Company presents Thornton Wilder’s timeless American classic, Our Town at Sanford Performing Arts Center. Performances will be held on Friday, November...

Making Every Day Count: Attendance During the Holiday Season

November 10, 2025

Dear Families, As we approach the busy holiday season, we want to remind you of the importance of regular school attendance. We know this time of year brings many celebrations, f...

Senior Hannah Chambers, a student in Sanford Regional Technical Center's Engineering and Architecture program, is gaining hands-on experience in the construction industry through her internship at Eldredge Lumber Company—and confirming her decision to enter the workforce immediately after graduation. When Hannah attended SRTC's Career and College Fair last fall, her teacher Mr. Clark guided her to the Eldredge Lumber table. Lindsey Eldredge remembers that first meeting clearly: "She made incredible eye contact. She was dressed professionally, and she shook my hand." After receiving an application and Lindsey's business card, Hannah demonstrated remarkable persistence. "She emailed me every single month," Eldredge said. "She's extraordinary." That determination led to her landing an internship at the company's contractor desk. "I wanted to get a chance to know what my future job would be like, and also to get more experience under my belt," Chambers said. "I plan on not going to college—I'd rather go straight into the work field, and this opportunity helps me understand what my life will look like when I graduate." Three to four days each week, Hannah immerses herself in the building materials business. She's learned to navigate Eldredge Lumber’s extensive inventory, memorize product sizes and account names, and help contractors place orders efficiently. "It's always a learning experience, also a memory game," she shares. "There are many questions about what sizes we stock and where certain things are throughout the store." Her background has proven valuable. "She's incredible with customers," Eldredge said. "She has a really great, gregarious personality, and her dad is a builder, so she knows our clientele and understands the language." Through the internship, Hannah has developed a deeper understanding of lumber dimensions, wood species, and material applications. "I like learning things with the customers," she said. "Going through orders and learning why they ordered this and what they are using the specific material for." The experience has solidified her career path. Rather than pursuing a college degree to become an architect, she's set her sights on becoming a draftsman. "This internship has helped me know that even if I am not going to college, I can still make it, doing what I love," she said. Her immediate goal? "I hope after this year is over I can get hired here at Eldredge when my internship is over." For Eldredge, students like Hannah represent valuable future employees. "The SRTC students are not entry-level employees," she explains. "They already have the knowledge. It's an easy transition to get these kids from SRTC into the workforce." Eldredge Lumber offers comprehensive benefits and long-term career potential. "If college isn't the way these kids want to go, I can offer them a career, not just a job," Lindsey says. Hannah's internship is one of several Extended Learning Opportunities coordinated by Sally MacDougal, offering students pathways to explore career options and build industry connections—whether they're headed to college or directly into the workforce.

SRTC Student Builds Career Foundation at Eldredge Lumber Through Internship

November 6, 2025

Senior Hannah Chambers, a student in Sanford Regional Technical Center's Engineering and Architecture program, is gaining hands-on experience in the construction industry through ...

Sanford Middle School Presents 'Disney's Dare to Dream JR.' This Weekend

November 6, 2025

Disney’s Dare to Dream JR. is performing at Sanford Middle School on Friday at 6:30 PM and Saturday at 1:30 PM. This fun and lighthearted musical revue, designed for middle sch...

This is part of a series highlighting the career and technical education programs offered at Sanford Regional Technical Center. Behind professional cameras and editing software, students in Sanford Regional Technical Center's Video Production program transform creative ideas into award-winning digital media—one frame at a time. Instructor James Harmon, with over twenty years of independent film production experience, brings real-world expertise directly into the classroom. Beyond his work as a video contractor, he founded and directed a successful film festival for five years and has taught in Sanford for nearly twenty years. That real-world experience shapes a classroom culture where students feel genuinely connected to their work and each other. "My favorite part of Video Production is that it's the only class I have where I feel really connected to the other students there beyond just sitting in the same room for a while," said Jasper Sweet, a second-year student from Sanford High School. "We make some really cool stuff together, and it wouldn't work if we didn't bring all the creativity and ambition we have to the table." That creative energy is exactly what Harmon values most. "I've learned that they're an endless well of ideas, inspiration, and entertainment," Harmon said. "All I need to do is show them a few things, and they're off to the races, surprising me with their creativity, determination, skills, and talent." Students learn essential roles in television, digital cinema, and audio production, working as individuals and in teams operating professional equipment and using industry-standard software to bring their ideas to life. The program prepares students for professional opportunities through the Maine Association of Broadcasters Video Production Certification. They can earn college credits through Southern Maine Community College. The program's excellence was on full display at this spring's SkillsUSA state conference. Of the twelve SRTC students who participated, six earned medals, creating award-winning TV ads, short films, audio broadcasts, and computer-generated animations. "I'm so proud of my current media students and graduates," Harmon said. "Every student put their best foot forward.” Harmon emphasized the broader lessons students take from the program. "Video production is an engaging, meaningful experience," he explained. "Students get to see—and come to know—how every person on a team is essential, and how impactful their voice can be in a group. The teamwork, the give and take, and the compromises that they make in two years of video production helps prepare these students for all of the interpersonal communication that will be important in their future." SRTC second-year student from Kennebunk High, Winter Nodden, highlighted the program's resources and career potential: "My favorite aspect of the program is the sheer aspect of creative opportunity and money that has been provided to us for this school. While we can't have everything, Mr. Harmon has so much knowledge as a teacher and there are so many different jobs that could come from this class." The program extends beyond the classroom through successful internships with The Sanford Mainers and Seacoast Oldies, giving students real professional experience.

SRTC Program Highlight: Video Production

November 5, 2025

This is part of a series highlighting the career and technical education programs offered at Sanford Regional Technical Center. Behind professional cameras and editing software...

Sanford Spotlight Newsletter

November 5, 2025

Head to the following link to read the latest Sanford Spotlight Newsletter: https://tinyurl.com/39xcue2s