Basketball Face-Off – Staff vs. First Responders
- March 20th 2025
- Sports Notes
The Staff vs. First Responders basketball game drew an impressive crowd at Sanford Pride Elementary’s gymnasium.
Photo: Sanford School Department
By Sam Bonsey, Sanford Schools Communication Coordinator
The Sanford Pride Elementary gymnasium was filled with excitement and community spirit last Thursday, March 13, as teachers and staff faced off against local first responders in a charity basketball game that brought together all three elementary schools in the district.
The annual Staff vs. First Responders basketball game drew an impressive crowd of students, parents, and community members who packed the bleachers to cheer on both teams. Players sporting red shirts (school staff) and navy shirts (first responders) with matching circular logos competed in a friendly but spirited match to raise funds for the elementary schools’ PTAs.
“Raising funds for our elementary schools wasn’t just a goal—it was a celebration of community,” said Carl J. Lamb second-grade teacher Laura Houle. “In moments where we unite for a common cause, we don’t just raise money; we lift spirits, strengthen bonds, and create memories that last a lifetime.”
The game featured teachers and staff members from across Sanford’s elementary schools competing against a team of local police officers, firefighters, and other emergency personnel.
Sanford School Resource Officer Joe Jourdain emphasized the broader impact of such events: “These events are important. It brings the community together, parents and students get to see first responders in another light and interact with them on a more personal level. The community sees schools and first responders working together to help raise money for families and to better school needs. Events like these help make the community come together, which makes a stronger bond for all involved.”
“It was awesome to see the school communities of all three elementary schools come together along with the first responders to help support the school PTAs. The game was competitive, and a lot of fun was had,” Sanford Pride Elementary fourth-grade teacher Dan Fernandez said. “I am hopeful that this can turn into an annual event that brings people together for a good cause. Thank you to Officer Jourdain and the first responders for coming out and playing.”
Carl J. Lamb Assistant Principal Kristy Richards expressed her enthusiasm for the growing tradition: “Staff vs First Responders has become a truly wonderful community event. It was great to see all the elementary schools come together with the addition of the Carl J. Lamb this year. Looking forward to next year!”
Funds raised during the event will support PTA initiatives across all three elementary schools, directly benefiting students through additional resources, activities, and educational opportunities throughout the year.
