Photo: WSSR TV
By Kendra Williams
At its August 18 meeting, Superintendent Matt Nelson presented plans for the impending start of the new school year beginning with new teacher orientation on Monday, August 25, followed by in service staffing days and open houses at the different schools.
The first week of school for students grades 1-9 and SRTC begins on Tuesday, September 2. Kindergarten and grades 10-12 join them on Wednesday, September 3. Pre-K begins on Thursday, September 3.
At this meeting, the School Committee gave final approval to the Sanford School Department’s Mission, Vision, and Graduate Portrait. This followed several months of workshops that included input from school and community stakeholders. The new mission emphasizes preparing students for “future-ready” skills. It aligns educational practices with standards that ensure that graduates leave school prepared for college, careers and civic life.
The 4-1 approval followed a lengthy discussion with Committee Member Paula Cote voting against it. She praised the collaborative process but argued the mission and vision is too broad and lacks clarity. She urged that it be more concise, measurable, and grounded in the daily realities of schools, with greater input from teachers and students. In explaining her vote, she said, “the next steps would be for the school committee to grab this and hone it and make it complete. I just don’t feel that this is done.”
Assistant Superintendent Steve Bussiere provided updates on transportation, Pre-K, and a new Ed Tech Apprenticeship Program at York County Community College.
Curriculum Director Beth Lambert offered an overview of summer professional development.
The School Committee reviewed recent retirements, resignations and staff appointments. They formally accepted and approved staff and administrative nominations that were offered over the summer as the superintendent was authorized to do.
To view the full meeting, go to https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xSuNf7SnGco&t=540s
For more school information, including student registration and the 2025-2026 calendar go to https://www.sanford.org
The post Schools Ready for Start of New Year appeared first on Sanford Springvale News.
