Sanford School Department

Sanford Middle School science teacher Diana Allen has been named among 336 educators nationwide to receive the Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching (PAEMST), the highest recognition a K-12 mathematics or science teacher can receive from the U.S. government. Allen, who was initially selected as one of three Maine state finalists, completed an intensive application process that required demonstrating deep content knowledge and adaptability to diverse learning environments. Her application included a recorded teaching demonstration at a local brook, where she partnered with Maine Audubon to teach students about macroinvertebrates. "It's an amazing reflection process," Allen said of the application requirements. "You have to look at yourself... you have to look at it through all the lenses of all these dimensions." The process required detailed analysis of teaching practices, addressing student misconceptions, managing classroom diversity, and demonstrating educational leadership at local, state, and national levels. Allen learned of her honor while driving, when she received an unexpected call from a friend who was a previous award recipient. "I was actually driving in my car, and a friend of mine called who was an awardee from the year before me," Allen recalled. "She said, 'Oh, I don't want to be the one to tell you, just check your email.' I was like, 'I can't check my email. I'm driving.'" When she finally pulled over to read the congratulatory message from the White House, the significance of the moment began to sink in. Allen's journey to this achievement is particularly inspiring, as she overcame early challenges through perseverance and determination. Rising above these obstacles, she has consistently pushed herself to excel, serving as chair of the Wells-Ogunquit School Committee and president of the Maine Science Teachers Association. She has also presented at the National Science Teachers Association Conference. "I need to work harder than most of my colleagues because I didn't have a good education foundation to work with," Allen shared. She often uses her own experience to inspire students, showing them that with dedication and perseverance, they can achieve their goals regardless of their starting point. The announcement has sparked celebration throughout the community, particularly among Allen's former students, many of whom now have children of their own. "When I see their comments, that's what really gets me... their words mean a ton.” As a PAEMST recipient, Allen will receive a $10,000 award from the National Science Foundation. Reflecting on the recognition, she shared what made the honor feel real to her: "They picked you. Like, yeah, you wrote that. Those were your words. That was your video. They picked you. It's for real. It's legitimate."

Diana Allen Receives Presidential Teaching Award

January 21, 2025

(Photo by Lee Burnett) Sanford Middle School science teacher Diana Allen has been named among 336 educators nationwide to receive the Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathem...

Pianist blends poetry and pics in immersive show Feb. 2

January 17, 2025

SANFORD — Jeeyoon Kim, celebrated for her innovative approach to classical piano, will bring her latest project, 시음 /si-úm/, to the SPAC stage. This project uniquely blends poet...

Curriculum Newsletter

January 16, 2025

Click here for the latest Curriculum Newsletter. Health and physical education programs at Sanford are in full swing, following Maine's learning standards to help students develo...

The CJL Bell Choir is composed of ten enthusiastic second graders who demonstrate a shared passion for music and performance. This newly-formed after-school club met weekly for five sessions leading up to the winter break, dedicating their time to furthering their musical skills. Student demonstrated excellence in both musical skill and character, serving as role models in the school community with their exceptional demonstration of our core values (safe, respectful, responsible, honest, courageous) and school attendance. Music literacy serves as the cornerstone of our second-grade music curriculum. Students are actively learning to read notes on the staff, transitioning from iconic representations to standard notation, and applying their understanding of pitch in innovative ways aligned with notation reading. Handbells and desk bells play a pivotal role in this progression, as the color-coded, pitch-specific instruments labeled with letter names provide a tactile and visual bridge into music literacy. The Bell Choir participants have exhibited exceptional teamwork and collaboration throughout their rehearsals. Furthermore, they have displayed remarkable leadership in their general music classes, eagerly sharing their growing knowledge

Carl J. Lamb Bell Choir

January 16, 2025

The CJL Bell Choir is composed of ten enthusiastic second graders who demonstrate a shared passion for music and performance. This newly-formed after-school club met weekly ...

Community Boot Donation Supports Sanford Students

Community Boot Donation Supports Sanford Elementary Students

January 15, 2025

PHOTO FROM YORK COUNTY HEAD START AND EARLY HEAD START Sanford elementary school students are stepping into winter confidence thanks to a generous donation from Kittery Trad...

Screens lit up across Sanford on Monday evening as more than 50 elementary school families joined the district's first-ever Virtual Family Math Night. Under the guidance of three title math teachers and the elementary math coach, what could have been a routine video call transformed into an interactive mathematical playground, with parents and children collaborating on engaging puzzles and games. The evening featured engaging activities that encouraged mathematical thinking and family collaboration. Students exercised their problem-solving skills with "Be Curious," a creative dice pattern activity, and participated in an interactive number guessing game using colorful visuals and strategic clues. One particularly popular activity involved a mystery number game where students used clues to eliminate numbers and narrow down possibilities – a perfect blend of logic and mathematics. The teaching team also introduced families to PIG, an exciting dice game that reinforced number sense and strategic thinking. Each activity was thoughtfully adapted to suit different grade levels, ensuring that every student could participate and learn at their appropriate level. Throughout the evening, students eagerly shared their answers and mathematical thinking with the group. The enthusiasm was evident right up to the final moments, with one student asking hopefully, "Are you going to do these every month?" Ms. Daniels happily confirmed that monthly sessions are indeed the plan.

Virtual Math Night Brings Sanford Elementary Families Together for Fun and Learning

January 14, 2025

Screens lit up across Sanford on Monday evening as more than 50 elementary school families joined the district's first-ever Virtual Family Math Night. Under the guidance of thr...

Sanford Middle School Librarian and Media Specialist Julie Williams has been selected to serve on the School Library Journal's Mock Newbery Committee, joining librarians from across the nation in evaluating the best children's literature of 2024. The Mock Newbery Committee mirrors the official Newbery Award process, which Williams describes as "the most distinguished award for children's literature in the US." Since 1922, the Newbery Award has recognized excellence in children's books, creating a legacy of literary classics that many remember from their elementary school days. "I follow it all year long," said Williams, who was selected for the committee in mid-December after demonstrating she had already read six required books from the nomination list. "I had already read a lot of the books I knew were going to be nominated because I try to keep up.” The committee is currently evaluating 15 books published in 2024, with members engaging in daily online discussions about each title's merits. "We read the books, and they do a blog entry every day," Williams explained. "All of us who are on this committee can chime in and say, 'This is what I like, this is what I didn't like, this is why I think we should pick this one.'" The process is rigorous and time-intensive. Williams spent much of her holiday break immersed in books, even reading during car trips. "My husband's like, 'What are you doing tonight?' What do you think? I'm sitting and reading," she said. Committee members must read physical copies rather than listen to audiobooks. "They don't like you to use audio books," Williams explained, "because it can depend on the narrator. If the narrator is really good, it can kind of make you think that the book might be better than it is." The committee will soon narrow down their selections to five finalists, which they'll discuss in detail during an online meeting on January 24th. Their final selection will be announced shortly before the official Newbery Award announcement on January 27th. Williams sees this committee work as part of a cherished tradition in children's literature. "It helps me because I read so much. When kids ask for book recommendations, I've read a lot," she said. "It's kind of like our Oscars for the best book, and they get a big gold medal on the cover when they win."

Sanford Middle School Librarian Selected for Mock Newbery Committee

January 13, 2025

Sanford Middle School Librarian and Media Specialist Julie Williams has been selected to serve on the School Library Journal's Mock Newbery Committee, joining librarians from acr...

Seventh-grader Paityn Ricker's dedication to helping her fellow students has earned Sanford Middle School a grant from a national foundation. Through her leadership in the school's JMG program, Paityn developed "SnackDash," an innovative project to support student wellness throughout the school day. The program complements the Sanford School Department’s existing meal services, which include free breakfast and lunch for all students as part of the Maine’s Department of Education’s universal free meal program. While breakfast and lunch are available at no cost, SnackDash helps bridge the gap between these meals for students who may need additional support. "I know how hard it is to focus when you're hungry," says Paityn. "Sometimes I don't have a snack to eat, so I'm starving for hours before lunch. I realized many of my classmates face the same challenge, and some may not have access to food at home either." Working with her JMG classmates and teacher Tara Houle, Paityn helped create "SnackDash," a program that provides free snacks to students between meals. The project caught the attention of the Foundation for Impact on Literacy and Learning (FILL) and Albertsons Companies Foundation's Nourishing Neighbors Program, earning the school a grant to expand their efforts. "My favorite part was working with my friends in JMG," Paityn shares. "They were really cooperative and had great ideas.” The project has opened her eyes to community needs. "I've learned how many students might need extra nutritional support during the school day," she explains. "Some students have lunch periods early in the day, and others might not have access to snacks from home. That's why programs like SnackDash are so important." The grant comes through the Explore.Act.Tell. Program, which teaches middle and high school students to identify and solve problems in their communities. Paityn's project was selected from among hundreds of student initiatives nationwide.

Sanford Middle School Student's Solution To Student Hunger Earns National Recognition

January 13, 2025

Seventh-grader Paityn Ricker's dedication to helping her fellow students has earned Sanford Middle School a grant from a national foundation. Through her leadership in the school...

Comedian Karen Morgan Coming to the Sanford Performing Arts Center

January 10, 2025

SANFORD — Karen Morgan, a celebrated comedian known for her engaging and relatable humor, will take the stage at Sanford Performing Arts Center at 7 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 25. ...

Sanford Spotlight Newsletter

January 10, 2025

Check out the latest news from the district in the Sanford Spotlight Newsletter by clicking here .

The Sanford School Department has been awarded a grant from the John T. Gorman Foundation, whose mission is to make Maine a more equitable place where all children and families can thrive. The grant provides funds to the department to develop and implement the Empowering Families, Elevating Early Learners Initiative, a pilot aimed at strengthening family-school connections and promoting academic and social-emotional growth for families at risk of or experiencing housing instability or homelessness. "This work is really centered on prevention," Sanford Assistant Superintendent Steve Bussiere explained. "It's about trying to support families early on, identifying those who need assistance, and connecting them to resources." Cecilia Sirianni, the department's outreach coordinator, said the team has carefully evaluated their approach. "We assessed areas of strengths and needs regarding connections between school, family and the community," she said. "We aim to discover creative ways to strengthen these relationships, emphasizing the early years and increasing engagement in school by parents and students, as well as greater awareness and presence of community resources." This $235,000 grant will help Sanford schools better assist families experiencing housing challenges through early intervention and enhanced connections between families, schools and community resources. By identifying and supporting families early, the program aims to improve student success in school. The initiative begins planning this winter and launches in the 2025-26 school year.

Sanford School Department Awarded Grant From John T. Gorman Foundation

January 9, 2025

The Sanford School Department has been awarded a grant from the John T. Gorman Foundation, whose mission is to make Maine a more equitable place where all children and families ca...

In just two years, Sanford High School's indoor track and field team has transformed from 17 athletes into a program now over 50 strong. This winter’s expansion – up from roughly 35 athletes last year – represents the latest chapter in growth that has seen the program more than triple in size since its early days.

Sanford High School Indoor Track Program Hitting Its Stride

January 9, 2025

In just two years, Sanford High School's indoor track and field team has transformed from 17 athletes into a program now over 50 strong. This winter’s expansion – up from roughly...

Maine's American Idol favorite takes the stage Jan. 18

January 7, 2025

SANFORD — Experience the electrifying talent of Maine’s American Idol finalist Julia Gagnon, live on the Sanford Performing Arts Center stage, at 7 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 18. A...

Sanford Wrestlers Shine at 49th Annual Spartan Tournament

January 7, 2025

(PHOTO BY GABRIEL ROBERGE) Sanford High School hosted its 49th Annual Spartan Wrestling Tournament this weekend, continuing its tradition as one of New England's premier wres...

Nominations are now open for the 2025 York County Teacher of the Year and 2026 Teacher of the Year. Members of the public are encouraged to nominate educators who demonstrate exemplary skills that inspire students and colleagues, and who help focus attention on the importance of public schools among everyone in the Sanford community. Nominations can be made through a form on the Maine Teacher of the Year Website from now until 5:00 p.m. on Friday, January 31st, 2025. (Click here for the form) They are accepted by students, parents, caregivers, community members, school administrators, colleagues, college faculty members, and associations/organizations. Recognize an educator today who has continued to inspire, educate and care for their students!

Nominations Open For Maine Teacher of the Year

January 6, 2025

Nominations are now open for the 2025 York County Teacher of the Year and 2026 Teacher of the Year. Members of the public are encouraged to nominate educators who demonstrate e...

The wrestling mats at Nasson Community Center have become more than just a training ground. They're now a place where Sanford High School student-athletes are giving back to their community and helping shape the next generation of wrestlers. Since 2017, the Spartan Youth program has been transforming wrestling culture in Sanford, creating a pipeline of talent while promoting community connection. "Our Spartan Youth program has been a vital part of our success at the varsity level," Sanford High School Wrestling Head Coach Nate Smith said. "They are helping to train up the future varsity team, as well as helping us put on our tournaments and contributing to how our program runs smoothly." Chris Hill, who founded the program in 2017 when Sanford wrestling was struggling with low numbers, has seen it grow into a "well-oiled machine,” he said. The program now operates as its own non-profit organization, with high school athletes regularly returning to mentor younger wrestlers. "We don't typically let them have free range of teaching. We're usually still teaching and coaching, and they're assisting by being extra hands, an extra set of eyes in the room," Hill said. "They're definitely big parts of making sure kids are getting that one-on-one attention they need." The program has already come full circle. Some of the wrestlers on this year’s team, including Chris Hill’s son, Canton Hill, James Chapwick, and Connor Pickering, started their wrestling journeys in this very program. "They love knowing that they started here," Hill said, noting that Pickering now attends nearly every youth practice to give back. Beyond coaching assistance, these high school mentors serve as role models. "We encourage the younger kids to go to the high school meets, see what the high school wrestlers are doing," Hill says. "Then they have people they can look up to." For Sanford High School senior Phoebe Stevens, volunteering offers a way to stay connected to the sport. "I help them with whatever moves they need, because it can be a little bit hard to understand as a beginner," Stevens explains. She assists during practices and meets, noting that extra help is especially valuable "on weekends, because a lot of coaches have jobs." Stevens also shares a valuable perspective from her own wrestling experience with the young athletes. "The biggest lesson I want to pass along is about understanding your coach's encouragement," she says. "They push you because they see your potential and want you to achieve your best." The impact of this mentorship extends beyond wrestling technique. As Coach Smith observes, the program's influence reaches far beyond the mat. "Coach Chris Hill has been a huge asset for us over the past years that he has headed up the program," Coach Smith said. "I am deeply appreciative of the opportunity he gives our athletes to coach at the youth level. They learn how to give back to the community and reinforce the things they have learned at the high school level as well.”

From Students to Mentors: Sanford High School Wrestlers Give Back to Youth Program

January 3, 2025

The wrestling mats at Nasson Community Center have become more than just a training ground. They're now a place where Sanford High School student-athletes are giving back to th...

The Sanford School Committee welcomes two new members, both bringing strong community ties and distinct perspectives to the district's educational leadership. Lisa Blanchette, with four decades of experience in the Sanford School Department, joins alongside Jonathan Stimmell, a long-time community advocate and program director who has spent 20 years working in Sanford. For Stimmell, whose children are currently enrolled in Sanford High School, the decision to join the committee stemmed from his desire to take an active role in the district's progress. "I want to be a strong advocate for students, schools, educators and the Sanford community," he said. "There's a lot of positive things going on in our schools and in our community, and I wanted to be a part of that process. It was an opportunity for me to get off the sidelines and jump in." His community involvement, including countless hours coaching basketball at the Nasson Community Center, has given him a unique perspective on the district's needs. As program director for Great Bay Services, working with adults with disabilities, Stimmell has also developed strong connections with the schools through various partnerships, including Special Olympics training programs. Blanchette brings her own set of commitments to the role. "I will always listen, I will always do the research needed to find the facts necessary to make the best decision possible for all involved," Blanchette said. "I will always fight for what I feel is right." Drawing from her background, Blanchette views the Sanford School Department as a comprehensive Pre-K through Adult education system. "This makes us a stronger system," she explains. "We are able to give our youngest students the early learning, coping, and social skills they need to set them up for success." Her experience in adult education has shaped her inclusive vision for the district. "Sanford is very fortunate to have an Adult Education program that can help those learners complete with a diploma or HiSET and Graduate whenever they are ready," Blanchette notes, emphasizing the importance of supporting students who may have been "sidelined for whatever the reason" from the traditional graduation path. Stimmell shared her optimism about the district's trajectory. "It's a great time for Sanford Schools," he notes. "We have a world-class Performing Arts Center. Things are definitely on the rise. I want to be part of that advocacy towards how we continue on those marks." Both members bring valuable experience working with diverse student populations. While Blanchette highlights programs such as Multiple Language Learners and BRIDGE, Stimmell's experience includes working with Special Olympics and supporting inclusive education initiatives. Looking ahead, both members emphasize transparency and community engagement. Blanchette plans to focus on financial oversight and encourages increased participation in school committee meetings. Stimmell, drawing from his community connections, looks forward to addressing challenges while maintaining the district's positive momentum. "As challenges come up," he said, "I want to be a voice of support and advocacy as we move forward."

Meet The New Sanford School Committee Members

January 3, 2025

The Sanford School Committee welcomes two new members, both bringing strong community ties and distinct perspectives to the district's educational leadership. Lisa Blanchette, w...

First 10 January Newsletter

January 2, 2025

First 10 Sanford's January newsletter announces its 2025-2026 Kindergarten Trail, beginning with a Community-Wide Registration Night on February 26th from 5:30-6:00 PM at 790 Main...

The Sanford School Department is starting to spotlight employees at all of our schools. If you know an employee who you think should be highlighted, please email communications coordinator Sam Bonsey at sbonsey@sanford.org. This spotlight is on Sanford Middle School’s Support and Transition Room teacher Barbara Noone. What's your name and position in the Sanford School Department? Barbara Noone, Support and Transition Room at SMS How long have you been working in the Sanford School Department? I completed my student teaching at Willard School when it was a 4-6 school with the late, great Rose Marie Ryan, so counting that year I guess it's been about 35 years! What's your favorite part about working in Sanford? The students and families here are the reason why I came to work during my time as a classroom teacher, and they are the reason I came back to work a few years ago after "retiring!" What's your favorite TV show or movie? Forensic Files & Pimple Popper If you could describe yourself in three words, what would they be? Determined, Open Minded, Adaptable If you could visit any place in the world, where would it be? I want to see Mt. Rushmore in the Black Hills of SD. Iced coffee or hot coffee? Iced Coffee Podcasts or Playlists? Playlists Lake or Ocean? Lake Sunrise or Sunset? Sunset Facebook or Instagram? Instagram

Employee Spotlight

January 2, 2025

The Sanford School Department is starting to spotlight employees at all of our schools. If you know an employee who you think should be highlighted, please email communications ...

Students from Carl J. Lamb Elementary School experienced a festive day of learning and fun at Sanford Regional Technical Center's annual holiday celebration. The event, hosted by SRTC's SkillsUSA students, featured a variety of hands-on activities including cookie decorating, ornament making, and wreath crafting. A highlight of the day was the opportunity for elementary students to explore emergency vehicles, including SRTC's fire truck, ambulance, and police cars. This interactive experience allowed young learners to connect with technical education in an engaging, age-appropriate way. The annual event showcases SRTC's commitment to community engagement while providing elementary students with an exciting introduction to technical education programs.

SRTC SkillsUSA Students Host Holiday Party for Carl J. Lamb and SHS Stars Program Students

December 30, 2024

Students from Carl J. Lamb Elementary School experienced a festive day of learning and fun at Sanford Regional Technical Center's annual holiday celebration. The event, hosted ...