School Notes
- April 18th 2025
- School Notes
Rory White, a junior at Sanford High School, completed a two-day journalism summit this month at Harvard University.
Photo: Sanford School Department
Compiled by Carolyn Cadigan
Spartan Times editor attends Harvard journalism summit: Rory White, a Sanford High School junior and news editor at The Spartan Times, traveled to Harvard University on April 5 and 6 for a summit with the Harvard Crimson, the university’s student-run newspaper. During the conference, White was able to network with journalists from publications like The New York Times, The Washington Post, The Wall Street Journal and more. The summit, which provided an opportunity for students to work with their editors as well as fellow attendees, aims to help participants improve their reporting skills, further their interest in journalism, and develop new ideas that they can then implement in their own newspapers. “I met a lot of new friends, and this was really the first time I was able to experience the world in a scholarly matter but still being independent,” said White. Read The Spartan Times story here.
SHS blood drive attracts several first-timers: National Honor Society (NHS) students at Sanford High School hosted an American Red Cross blood drive on April 8. A total of 50 students and staff donated blood. Of these, 38 were first-time donors. NHS students helped with various tasks throughout the day, including setting up and breaking down the blood donation area.
Drop-off day added for St. Thomas fair items: Due to inclement weather earlier this month, another day has been added to drop off items for St. Thomas School’s annual Spring Fever Fair. Items may be dropped off at the school on April 26, from 9 am to 1 pm. Fair organizers are accepting gently used items such as dishware, small kitchen appliances, home and holiday decor, used books, children’s games and toys, crafting and gardening tools and supplies, small furniture, handbags and luggage. No bedding, cushions, stuffed animals, clothing or large furniture will be accepted.
SPE staff celebrate their volunteers at all grade levels: Sanford Pride Elementary School hosted its first Volunteer Appreciation Ceremony on April 11, recognizing the dedicated volunteers who have given their time and talents to the school community this year, including parents, former employees, Sanford High School and Middle School students, PTA members, participants in the school’s mentorship program, and classroom helpers across all grade levels. Classroom teachers took turns honoring their volunteers. High school seniors pursuing education careers were also among those recognized — Hazel Bouchard, who helps with math; Arianna Ramini, who is completing the SRTC program in elementary education before attending the University of Maine at Orono this fall; and fourth-grade volunteer Cole Adawadkar, who supports students both in the classroom and through sports activities.
The school’s PTA officers — Sara Gildart, Niki Langlois, Kaity Getchell and Robyn Howe — were acknowledged for organizing school activities, providing supplies, and supporting field trips. In addition, Principal Inman highlighted the school’s mentoring program, which pairs adults with third-grade students during lunch and recess. Ben England was recognized for his mentorship, along with Elissa Brewster and Michelle Vessels, who were unable to attend. Although not all volunteers were present, each will receive a certificate of appreciation through their respective classroom teachers.
SMS eighth graders learn from those who have walked this road before: A group of Sanford High School (SHS) students recently visited Sanford Middle School to participate in a panel discussion aimed at helping eighth graders prepare for their transition to high school. The panel, consisting of five high school students — Ornello Keto, Gabe Roberge, Lily Peters, Erik Skillings and Sadie Sevigny — provided information about academic expectations at SHS, emphasizing the school’s supportive environment. They also discussed social experiences — building new friendships across all grade levels, getting involved in extracurricular activities, and forming connections with peers who share similar goals and interests. Not surprisingly, the food options available at the high school were also of great interest.
School events, such as Homecoming, described as “the best week of the year,” and high school dances, were mentioned for their high student participation. The panel also pointed out SHS’s commitment to inclusivity through programs like unified sports teams and “Lunch Buddies,” where students share lunch with peers from the special needs classroom. Throughout the discussion, the high school students offered practical advice and perspectives, showcasing SHS’s community spirit and the many opportunities available to students as they make this important transition.
Sanford school happenings: For more news from the Sanford School Department, including student achievements, community partnership celebrations, and the second issue of The SMS Times, read the latest edition of the Sanford Spotlight Newsletter here.
