Members of the very first Pre-K graduating class at the Sanford-Springvale YMCA
Photo: Sanford School Department
Compiled by Carolyn Cadigan
YMCA celebrates its first-ever Pre-K graduation: The Sanford-Springvale YMCA recently celebrated a milestone with its very first Pre-K graduation ceremony on June 10, marking the successful completion of the inaugural year of its partnership with the Sanford School Department. Sixteen young graduates gathered with their families to commemorate their educational journey and prepare for the next chapter — kindergarten.
“Thriving with the support of the Sanford School Department and under the guidance of Elizabeth Reynolds and Cayla Bleakney, we were able to foster school readiness through developing the foundational skills for continued school success for 16 students,” said Cassandra Lunderville, Early Learning Center coordinator for the YMCA. “Watching their growth and development over the 2024-2025 school year was inspiring.”
The program is part of a statewide effort in Governor Janet Mills’s administration to expand childcare options, with the Sanford School Department receiving a Pre-K Expansion grant to make this vision a reality. The YMCA’s newly constructed classrooms not only house the 16 Pre-K students but also accommodate 30 additional children in its expanded childcare program. Read the full story here.
Already planning to celebrate 2026 graduates: Although this year’s graduation celebration is still fresh in the minds of many, plans are already being discussed for next June. A Christmas in July fundraiser to benefit 2026 Project Graduation is now underway. Tickets for a 50/50 raffle are being sold, with half the pot going to the winner, and the other half going toward the celebration for the Class of 2026. The drawing will be held July 24. Tickets cost $20 each. Support the graduates-to-be by purchasing tickets here.
Central Office summer hours: The Sanford School Department has adjusted office hours for the summer months to better serve the community. From June 16 to Aug. 3, the office is open Monday through Thursday, 7:30 am – 5 pm; closed on Fridays. The office will also be closed on Thursday, July 3, in observance of the holiday. From Aug. 4 to Aug. 24, the office will be open Monday through Friday, 7:30 am – 3:30 pm. Beginning Aug. 25, the office will resume its regular hours, Monday through Friday, 7:30 am – 4 pm, for the new school year.
July 11 deadline for public comment on the use of school funding: The Sanford School Department accepts funding through the Elementary and Secondary Act (ESEA) of 1965. As part of the ESEA, the department is required to provide a reasonable opportunity for public comment on the consolidated application and consider comments prior to the submission of the application. Public comment will be accepted through July 11. To view the proposed projects in the application and submit comments, go here.
Root, root, root for the home team, a little later than planned: Due to poor weather conditions, St. Thomas School and the Sanford Mainers rescheduled the fundraiser that was to be held June 6. The new date for the school’s Night at the Mainers is Wednesday, July 2, 6:30 pm, at Goodall Park. The team will play a doubleheader that day with the first game beginning at 4 pm. For those who want to attend the early game as well, the cost is for a single admission. Be sure to mention St. Thomas School to the ticket booth staff.
Sanford school happenings: For more news from the Sanford School Department, including student achievements, educator recognition, and other school activities, read the June 2025 edition of the Sanford Spotlight Newsletter here.
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