School Notes

An engaged audience listens as Sanford band students perform at the 35th Annual Sanford Band Fest concert on March 12.

Photo: Sanford School Department

Compiled by Carolyn Cadigan

Band Fest showcases grades 5 through 12 bands: The Sanford community came together on March 12 to fill the stands of Partner’s Bank Gymnasium at Sanford High School for the 35th Annual Sanford Band Fest concert. The event served as a platform to showcase the musical talents of students enrolled in band classes spanning grades 5 through 12. The evening commenced with performances by the grade 5 and 6 bands, under the direction of music director Dee Ames. Guided by music director Erica Scarano, the grade 7 and 8 students performed next, followed by the high school band, led by music director Hailey Francoeur. The evening’s finale was a combined performance of Beethoven’s Ninth Symphony, with all three instructors and high school junior Quang Lam conducting together. FMI on the selections played, go here.

Vaccination clinic for students entering grade 7: Maine school immunization requirements call for students entering grade 7 to be immunized for Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria, pertussis) and Meningococcal Conjugate Vaccine (MCV4). To provide easier access to these mandatory vaccines, Sanford Middle School, in partnership with Northern Light Home Care and Hospice, will host a vaccination clinic on April 26 for students in grade 6. FMI and to begin the consent process, go here.

Grade 8 writers’ stories to be published: Several of Ms. Coveney’s grade 8 students recently participated in a creative writing contest sponsored by Young Writers USA. Each student wrote a mini saga of 100 words for the contest. The stories of six students were chosen for publication. Congratulations to Allie Herring, Arella Burnell, Gianna Garneau, Kenley Winchell, Natalie Nadeau and Olivia Palmer for their literary achievement.

Celebrating Partnerships event at SRTC highlights student internships: Sanford Regional Technical Center (SRTC) hosted its annual Celebrating Partnerships event on March 15 in the agora of Sanford High School. SRTC Director Matt Petermann and Career Exploration Coordinator Katie Schindler expressed their gratitude to all attendees for the support of the students. A highlight of the event was the student panel, featuring 11 SRTC students who shared insights into their respective programs and internship experiences. Attendees had the opportunity to engage with the students, asking about their preparedness for internships and aspirations for the future. Many of the students highlighted their personal growth since joining SRTC as well as their improved communication and self-esteem since attending programs focused on working with their peers. FMI on the event and the participating students, go here.

High school students receive multiple art awards: Sanford High School students Elise Gendron and Hannah Morgan were recognized at the Scholastic Art Awards Ceremony in Portland on March 16. Elise received two Scholastic Gold Key awards, one honorable mention and a Maine Excellence in Art Education award at the ceremony. Hannah received one Scholastic Gold Key award, one honorable mention, a Maine Excellence in Art Education award and a Congressional Art Award honorable mention. Self-portraits of Elise and Hannah will be on display at the Capitol Complex in Augusta through May 30.