School Notes

Compiled by Carolyn Cadigan

A special day for CJL student athletes: After months of planning by teachers and staff, Carl J. Lamb Elementary School (CJL) held its first-ever Special Olympics event on June 3, bringing smiles and athletic achievement to students with disabilities. Special Education Director Kathryn McCall and PE Teacher Tatyana Wolterbeek teamed up with fellow teachers Dave Eldridge and Gabby Lieske to plan the athletic events, opening/closing ceremonies, parade of athletes, and commemorative t-shirts and medals. The competitions included long jump, 50-yard dash, 100-yard dash, and softball throw. The successful inaugural CJL Special Olympics lays the groundwork for future participation in city-wide and regional events celebrating the athletic abilities of students with disabilities. For the full story, go here.

MCS library is dedicated to Sharon Remick: Colleagues, friends and family gathered on May 30 to remember Sharon Remick and dedicate the Remick Library at Margaret Chase Smith Elementary School (MCS) in Sanford to her memory. Sharon, who died March 13, 2024, taught and led as principal at Lincoln School, MCS, and Lafayette School for 45 years. She retired in 2020. Love was the foundation of Sharon’s work — love for children, loving support for her colleagues and passion for community. Gale Michaud, a close friend and colleague of Remick, led the ceremony hosted by the Sanford Schools Legacy Foundation. For the complete story, go here.

Summer food distribution has already started: The free Community Food Distribution, put on by the Sanford Backpack Program, began on June 13 and will run every Thursday (except July 4) from 3 pm to 5:30 pm through Aug. 22. Food items, including farm fresh produce, will be distributed at the Willard School building and at Sanford High School. FMI about the program or to volunteer, email lori@strongersanford.org.

SMS student wins state citizenship award: Sanford Middle School student Joshua Fogarty was recently named this year’s recipient of the 8th Grade Secretary of State Citizenship Award. Given annually, the award honors Maine students for their civic awareness, scholastic achievements and community service. Joshua was recognized for his outstanding Citizenship and Leadership. Congratulations, Joshua!

Lori Williams of the Sanford Backpack Program stands with Matt Petermann, SRTC Director and recipient of the 2024 Friend of the Backpack Program award.

SRTC Director named 2024 Friend of the SBP: Sanford Regional Technical Center (SRTC) Director Matt Petermann was named the 2024 Friend of the Backpack Program at the annual Chocolate Benefit Spectacular held on May 18. The Sanford Backpack Program (SBP), which has served the community for eight years, provides bags of non-perishable foods to hundreds of local students each weekend during the school year when they don’t have access to free or reduced-price meals. In presenting the award, Lori Williams of SBP praised Petermann for being “a huge cheerleader and supporter” who goes above and beyond. When the program needed storage space for a large food donation to get through the end of the school year, Petermann came up with a solution. His leadership was also instrumental in securing space for the new Spart Mart at Sanford High School – a free student shopping pantry that Williams envisioned. Thank you, Matt, for your continuous support of SBP, and congratulations on this well deserved award!

College scholarship deadline is fast approaching: The Babe Ruth League Alumni Scholarship application deadline is June 30. This scholarship opportunity provides financial aid and a stepping stone toward a player’s educational aspirations. FMI on the application process and eligibility criteria, go here.

Free YMCA pre-k registration is now open: The Sanford-Springvale YMCA is partnering with the Sanford School District to offer free full-day pre-kindergarten for the 2024-2025 school year. This program is available to children who turn four years old on or before October 15, 2024, and reside in the Sanford/Springvale community. The program will run from 8 am to 3 pm, Monday through Friday, and will be held at the YMCA at 1 Emile Levasseur Dr. Promoting school readiness and supporting holistic development, the program focuses on reading and math skills, creativity, health and nutrition, and social-emotional development. Free nutritious breakfast and lunch provided by Sanford School Nutrition as well as transportation to and from the YMCA are included. Additionally, optional before school care from 6 am to 8 am and after school care from 3 pm to 5 pm will be available at a cost for families who require extended hours. Enrollment is limited to 16 children. FMI, contact Jessica Bouchard at 207-324-4942 or jbouchard@sanfordymca.org. Download the Pre-K application here or stop by the YMCA Welcome Center.

SCAE teacher marks a quarter century of teaching: Tina Parks, Sanford Community Adult Education teacher, marks 25 years of dedication and exceptional teaching. Her commitment and passion have impacted countless students and enriched the community. Thank you, Tina, for your dedication, and congratulations on reaching this milestone!

Senior Awards Night at SHS: Sanford High School’s Class of 2024 Senior Awards Night was held on June 3 at the Sanford Performing Arts Center. Seniors were recognized by teachers and staff from all departments. Additionally, several scholastic and special awards were given out along with scholarships. For a complete list of the winners and to watch the ceremony, go here.