Sanford BRIDGE students play a game with Summer Commons Nursing Home residents. During the school year, activities during their monthly visits with the residents teach the students skills that become an integral part of their growth and development.
Photo: Sanford School Department
Compiled by Carolyn Cadigan
BRIDGE builds connections at Summer Commons: On the first Friday of each month, elementary and middle school students from Sanford’s BRIDGE Program visit Summer Commons Nursing Home to play games and make crafts with senior residents. It’s a partnership that started last year and has quickly become a highlight for both the students and the residents. On Friday, Oct. 3, students brought plastic cups with strings attached and placed ping pong balls on top of the inverted cups. Residents had to pull their cups closer using the strings while trying to keep the ball balanced on top.
During last year’s visits, students prepared crafts in advance, then taught the residents how to make them – a process that built confidence and communication skills while bringing joy to the seniors. “This visit is part of helping [the students] interact and learn appropriate social skills,” said Sandra Hewitt, an ed tech at the BRIDGE Program.
BRIDGE works with students who need additional support developing behavioral and social skills, offering specialized instruction, effective education and counseling. These monthly visits to Summer Commons provide a real-world setting where students can practice appropriate social interactions, develop empathy, and learn to engage respectfully with others. Read the full story here.
MCS music teacher’s noteworthy achievement: Margaret Chase Smith Elementary School music teacher Heather Hastings recently received national recognition for her original composition “Unwavering.” Hastings traveled to Thomas S. Wootton High School in Rockville, Maryland, where her composition received its premiere performance on Sept. 30 by the school’s top wind ensemble.
During her visit, she had the opportunity to work directly with the student musicians, attending their rehearsal and offering feedback on their interpretation of the work. “For a composer, it is always a wonderful experience to have one’s music performed by a live ensemble and to hear the art come to life,” Hastings said. “Unwavering” was written as a dedication to Gladys Stone Wright, one of the very first female band directors in the United States.
At the premiere performance, Hastings was presented with her competition award by Dr. Pam Klena, president of Women Band Directors International (WBDI). This December, Hastings will be honored at the WBDI luncheon with a lifetime membership to the organization and will have the opportunity to showcase her compositions to band and orchestra directors from across the country.
October means leaf-peeping, pumpkins and Marching Band Finals: Sanford Music Boosters needs volunteers to help on Saturday, Oct. 25, when Sanford High School hosts the marching band finals. In addition to assistance with the normal prep, the organization needs help running the event. Helpers who have a student performing will still be able to see the performance. Sign up here to help and be sure to share the sign-up link with any friends or family who would also like to help.
Christmas fair seeks sellers: Spaces are still available for crafters and vendors at Sanford Christian Academy’s 10th annual Christmas Craft & Vendor Fair, to be held Saturday, Nov. 8, 9 am – 2 pm at 25 Riverside Ave., Sanford. Spaces are available for $50 each. FMI, email events@scamaine.org.
Substitute teachers can pick days to work, no long-term commitment: The Sanford School Department is seeking dedicated and adaptable substitute teachers and educational technicians (ed techs) to join their team for the 2025-2026 academic year, with openings across all grade levels, from pre-kindergarten through high school. The role requires individuals who can effectively manage classrooms, support student learning, and maintain a safe and engaging educational environment. The daily pay range is $120 – $145. FMI, and to apply, go here.
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