Grace Pearson
Andrew Morin
By Kendra Williams
As graduation approaches, we recognize two standout seniors from Sanford High School who have contributed thoughtful feature stories to the Sanford Springvale News since last fall. Andrew Morin and Grace Pearson have brought student voices to life through their writing.
Throughout the school year, Grace brought warmth and curiosity to her writing, with stories that celebrated the diversity, creativity and spirit of the student body. She profiled classmates from diverse cultures in her stories about Angolan students and a Ukrainian exchange student, offering a glimpse into their lives and perspectives. Her coverage of school musical productions “Grease” and “Beauty and the Beast” captured the behind-the-scenes energy and dedication of student performers, crew members and directors. Grace also spotlighted events like the Spartan Showcase talent show and shared a preview of the baking program at Sanford Regional Technical Center (SRTC). Her range of topics reflected not only strong reporting skills but also a genuine interest in the people and experiences that shape school life.
Grace said one of her most meaningful stories was the first one, about a group of Angolan students at Sanford High. Interviewing English language learners in a classroom group posed a challenge, but it offered valuable perspective, she said. “Their lives had been very different before coming to Sanford,” she said, adding that one student she interviewed has since become a good friend.
That story also showed Grace how journalism can spark change. After it was published, a teacher told her it had inspired new ways to connect with students through their cultural music – something they had said they wished others understood more about.
Grace said she was initially hesitant to step outside her comfort zone and nervous about “putting myself out there and talking to people,” especially after the isolation of COVID. But over the year, she gained confidence and found joy in helping others share their stories. “I’ve become more involved in the broader community,” she said. “It’s been rewarding and fun.”
Looking ahead, Grace is considering a future in global studies or anthropology, with hopes of a career in international business and travel. An honors student accepted to several colleges, she’s still weighing her options.
Like Grace, Andrew brought a thoughtful perspective to his reporting this year, covering topics that reflected both school life and broader community interests. He spotlighted student learning and achievement through stories about the SRTC admissions process, the baking competition, the capstone project program, and a congressional art honor awarded to a student. He tackled relevant school issues such as cell phone use in schools, offering insight into timely debates. Andrew also extended his coverage to the wider community, informing readers about the city’s plans to renovate Carpentier Park. His reporting captured the enriching experience of the Voyage En France senior trip and brought history to life with coverage of the recent Battle of Lexington re-enactment held in Boston. His writing combined curiosity, clarity, and a knack for connecting readers to stories they might not otherwise discover.
Andrew said his story about the senior trip to France was the most enjoyable and personally fulfilling. The topic reflected his own passion for language and travel and gave him a chance to write with insight and enthusiasm. While journalism may not be in his career plans, Andrew said the experience helped him sharpen his ability to write clearly and concisely for a broader audience – skills he knows will serve him well going forward.
This fall, Andrew will attend Saint Anselm College in Manchester, NH. Although still exploring his academic path, he plans to continue his French studies and has a strong interest in linguistics. He hopes to participate in a study abroad program – ideally in France – where he can immerse himself in the language and culture that first inspired him, thanks to a favorite teacher.
Sally Quarles, the Career Aspirations and Extended Learning Opportunities coordinator at SHS, described the program as a valuable way to connect students with real-world experiences that support academic growth. She praised Andrew and Grace, saying, “Our two student staff writers at the Sanford Springvale News are shining examples of Sanford’s top-shelf student body – committed, capable, and consistently giving their best in all they do. It has been a true pleasure to work with such outstanding students and dedicated business partners through the ELO program.”
Andrew and Grace have each brought a distinct voice and thoughtful perspective to our pages, helping to bridge the gap between the student body and the broader community. Through their stories, they’ve informed, connected, and inspired—and in doing so, reminded us of how student journalism can build understanding and community. We thank them both for their dedication, professionalism, and heart. Wherever their paths lead, we know they will continue to seek out meaningful stories and make a difference in the world around them.
The post Student Reporters Make Lasting Impact appeared first on Sanford Springvale News.
