The Performing Arts Center was alive with music and melody on Thursday, May 2nd, as Sanford Middle School’s 5th and 6th-grade students took to the stage for their highly anticipated Spring Concert. The evening began with the  performance of the 5th-grade band, under the direction of Band Director Dee Ames. The young musicians treated the audience to renditions of "Miramar Fanfare" by Brian Balmages and "Bulger's Dream (Olympic Fanfare)" by Paul Lavender.  Continuing the musical journey, the spotlight then shifted to the 6th-grade band, still under the guidance of Dee Ames. The band delivered performances of "Armory" by Randall Standridge and "Wellerman" by Johnnie Vinson.  After a brief intermission, it was time for the chorus to take center stage, with music teacher Katie Spagnolo at the helm. Students delivered interpretations of "The Banana Boat Song" by Roger Emerson and "Golden Hour" by Emily Drum.  Throughout the evening, it was evident that the success of the concert was the result of countless hours of practice and dedication from the students. Their hard work and commitment to their craft were truly commendable, and they deserved every moment of applause and recognition. A special shoutout goes to all the students for their unwavering dedication in preparing for this night. Their passion for music and performance shone brightly on stage, leaving a lasting impression on all who were fortunate enough to witness their talents. Additionally, heartfelt thanks go to Joanna Hamblin for her invaluable service accompanying the student performances.
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A few Sanford Middle School students recently presented to 3rd and 4th graders at Margaret Chase Smith’s Wellness Day. Eighth graders Mattea Peters, Leah Lagueux, and Kyla Robinson, alongside seventh grader Madi Dulle, stepped up to present valuable insights on coping skills and encouraging healthy friendships to Margaret Chase Smith students. These students are also in the school’s Jobs for Maine Graduates program (JMG). They shared practical strategies for managing stress, dealing with challenges, and nurturing meaningful connections with peers.  Their efforts went beyond the classroom, extending into the realm of mentorship and role modeling. By sharing their own experiences and insights, these young leaders inspired their peers to prioritize mental health and cultivate positive relationships. These students showed great leadership in the community!
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Sanford Middle School Theatre Troupe Presents Annie Jr. This Weekend
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Sanford Middle School received a boost to its safety measures on Thursday, April 11th, as Cintas, a leader in workplace safety solutions, generously donated an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) to the school. The donation was attended by Cintas General Manager Drew Hormann and Service Manager Scott Bellerose.  Sanford Middle School Principal Pam Lydon, SMS Nurse Katelyn Gray, Superintendent Matt Nelson, and Assistant Superintendent Steve Bussiere were there to receive the donation. AEDs are crucial devices designed to aid individuals experiencing cardiac arrest, a condition that can strike without warning. These portable devices analyze the hear’s rhythm and, if necessary, deliver an electric shock to restore normal heart function. SMS is planning to place the AED outside the gym doors as its main home both during and after school hours.  With a diverse range of outdoor sports, SMS is dedicated to providing a safe environment for its students.  Coaches will also be equipped with the AED during practices during practices and games to reduce the response time in case of a cardiac emergency.
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Sanford Middle School 7th graders participated in its annual JA in a Day - Economics for Success, in coordination with Junior Achievement of Maine on Wednesday, April 10th. Junior Achievement of Maine partners with volunteers from local students to teach students lesions about economics and personal finance. The day was an opportunity for students to dive into the realms of personal finance and economic understanding. Throughout the day, students were involved in a series of sessions designed to equip them with knowledge and skills in managing money, understanding credit, distinguishing between needs and wants, and much more. The effort between SMS and Junior Achievement aimed to provide students with relevant and authentic information about financial literacy, preparing them for the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. The event had active participation from a range of local businesses, whose volunteers devoted their time and expertise to engage with the students. Erin Barry, the head of Sanford Middle School’s social studies department, highlighted the longstanding relationship between the school and Junior Achievement. Barry coordinates Junior Achievement experiences for 7th and 8th graders each spring.  A special thank you goes out to the volunteers who lent their expertise and enthusiasm to the event: Eric Tracy at WEX Laura Buonaiuto at Dun and Bradstreet Kyle Barrett and Bryanna Saucier from Kennebunk Savings Bank Karen Gellatly from Partners Bank Community Member Crystal Cole Prichard Pamela Bennett from United Way Jessica Owens from Kennebunk Savings Bank Community Member Don DeSalvio Katie Rooks and Mike Ross from M&T Bank Toni DiSotto from Key Bank
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A Sanford Middle School 8th-grader, Kyla Robinson recently attended the Maine Youth Action Network's Leadership Summit.  Kyla's active involvement in Sanford Middle School's Student Leadership Team and the school's Jobs for Maine Graduates (JMG) program is a testament to her leadership and commitment.  She had the opportunity to network with nonprofits throughout Maine. At the summit, she met people working with Flavors Hook Maine.   "There, I met people working with Flavors Hook Maine," Kyla wrote. "I contacted them after we returned from the trip, and on February 15th, I joined Flavors Hook Kids Maine at the Maine State House in Augusta to advocate for a bill to end the sale of flavored tobacco products."  Flavors Hook Kids Maine works to give young adults and youth a fair shot at a productive and healthy future free from tobacco addiction.   During Kyla's time at the state house, she spoke with Maine state representatives and Senators. She spoke with representatives Anne-Marie Mastraccio, Anne-Marie Fredericks, and Senator Harrington.  Kyla has continued this work by meeting with Sanford's City Council and working with the York County SMHC Prevention staff.  "With this work, I hope to help create a healthier environment and end the cycle of childhood tobacco use."
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