School Reopening Notes

As of this writing, Sanford schools are still expected to open under the hybrid model approved by the School Committee on August 17. The opening of school schedule is here. The complete Reopening Plan is here.

Although the Maine Principals’ Association unanimously voted to allow fall school sports, that’s not the end of the story. The state is reviewing the decision to see if it complies with health and safety rules. (Maine CDC guidelines call for students participating in strenuous activities to remain 14 feet apart if not wearing masks.) A school or school department may also opt out of any sport. The MPA’s Return to Competition Guidelines categorizes sports by level of risk. Read their complete guidelines here.

If you have not yet completed the Return to School Survey, please do so ASAP. A separate form is needed for each student. Forms for most schools are linked here. The form for the Sanford Regional Technical Center is here.

The Sanford School Department wants to remind parents to renew their Free and Reduced Meal Applications to avoid any break in eligibility. Paper applications are available by calling your child’s school or parents can use the new, secure online application available at: myschoolapps.com. If you have any questions about the process, please contact the Food Service Office at 608-8762. Families affected by the COVID 19 pandemic may be eligible for free or reduced priced school meals based on their current income.  Families impacted are encouraged to submit an online application.

Although Sanford’s elementary schools don’t open until September 14, the week of September 8 will be a busy one, with virtual open houses, technology pick up for distance learners, and live training for parents of distance learners to learn the new platforms.

All students, faculty and staff will be required to wear masks in school, unless they have a physician’s note that allows them to wear a face shield. Neck gaiters are not acceptable face coverings. The #MASKUPSPARTANS challenge can help kids get used to wearing masks.

The Sanford YMCA is taking registrations for their Kids Out Enrichment Program, which provides before and after school care for kids grades K-6. Financial assistance is available. More information and registration link is here. A brand new Distance Learning Support program will provide care for kids in grades 5-8 on the days they are not in school under the hybrid learning model. Preregistration form for this program is here.

St. Thomas School will be reopening September 8, with classes five days a week for grades Pre-K through 8. As of Wednesday, there were still openings available in Kindergarten and grade 3, with waiting lists for the other grades. Contact the school at 324-5832 for information.