School Notes

Students board the bus to Sanford Pride Elementary School.

Photo: Sanford School Department

Compiled by Carolyn Cadigan

The wheels on the bus go right, left, right: Three years into its journey, the Walking School Bus Program at Sanford Pride Elementary School continues to make strides in building a stronger community and improving attendance. What began as a way to ensure students arrive at school safely and on time has blossomed into an engaging morning routine for students, volunteers, and families. Every morning, Carol Lantagne, the program’s coordinator, is joined by volunteers at the CVS parking lot on Main Street to begin their walk along Charles Street and State Street Court, gathering students from their homes along the way. They meet students at their households to walk them to the bus stop. A key part of the program’s success hinges on its volunteers, including staff members from counselors and health teachers to Assistant Principal Kristin Daly. They end at the intersection of Main and State Streets, where the school bus picks up the students. The school has realized several benefits from the program, including improved attendance and a greater connection with students and families. Read the full story here.

Students learn about BIW career opportunities: Sanford High School students in the Jobs for Maine Graduates classroom had an interactive presentation on careers at Bath Iron Works (BIW) on Oct. 15, including an overview of the services BIW provides, such as onsite certifications. Students learned about different training opportunities available to them directly out of high school.

Giving a voice to their peers: The Sanford School Committee welcomed two new student representatives from Sanford High School (SHS), juniors Matthew Melvin and Zachary Moores, bringing fresh voices and ideas to the table. Alongside current student representative, senior Elsie Gendron, these students help the committee make important contributions to their school community. Moores brings valuable skills to his new role, including strong communication abilities and the confidence to share his opinions. Melvin, a three-sport athlete, brings experience from his involvement in SHS’s student government and class leadership. Gendron, who has been a student representative since fall of 2023, shared wisdom for the new student representatives: “My biggest piece of advice would just be to learn what you can. It’s a very cool opportunity to see the inner workings of something we otherwise may not get the chance to see.” Read the full story here.

Photo: Sanford School Department

SHS students visit the Midcoast Maine art scene: Sanford High School’s National Art Honor Society students took a field trip to Rockland and Cushing on Oct. 4 to visit multiple venues where they could experience Maine’s diverse art scene. At Rockland’s Farnsworth Museum, they explored the legacy of the renowned Wyeth family, examining works spanning three generations. They also discovered how Maine’s landscape, particularly Monhegan Island, has influenced numerous local artists. The Center for Maine Contemporary Art, also in Rockland, provided an interactive experience where students engaged with works by three contemporary artists. Students participated in hands-on art-making activities and meaningful discussions about modern artistic expression. The day concluded with a stop at the historic Olson House in Cushing. While interior access was restricted, students captured photographs of the house and the surrounding landscape. The students were led by Margaret Warner, art teacher, and Sally Quarles, Extended Learning Opportunities coordinator.

Fire safety instruction at MCS: Kindergarten students at Margaret Chase Smith Elementary School enjoyed a special visit from Sanford Fire Department firefighters in honor of Fire Safety Month. The firefighters gave a fun and informative presentation on staying safe during a fire, what signs to look for, and the important gear the firefighters wear. The students were excited to learn about fire safety and got a firsthand look at the brave work the firefighters do.

Your name can live on in Sanford’s history: The Sanford Schools Legacy Foundation invites you to name a seat at the Sanford Performing Arts Center. A seat in the new theater, inscribed with your name, a loved one’s name, your business, or in memoriam, serves as a reminder of your commitment to the City of Sanford and the performing arts. For a one-time, tax-deductible donation of $75, your name will be engraved on a nameplate and placed on the armrest of a theater seat, to remain in place for the life of the seat. FMI and to name your seat, go here.

Sanford school happenings: For more news from the Sanford school district, read the Oct. 2024 edition of the “Sanford Spotlight” newsletter here.