Activities will include an obstacle course, gaga ball, temporary tattoos, BBQ lunch, and Kona Ice
Layla Metcalf, STAFF WRITER
May 14, 2025
SANFORD, Maine – Sanford High School’s annual This Is Us Day returns on May 23, bringing food, fun, and community spirit to locations inside and outside the building. The event unites SHS clubs and staff to help show every student they matter.
To celebrate the week, there will be spirit days for students to dress up:
- Monday: Hawaiian Day
- Tuesday: Mismatch Day
- Wednesday: Anything but a backpack
- Thursday: One-Color Day
- Friday: Red & White
This year’s This Is Us Day promises to be bigger and better than ever, thanks to the hard work of students, staff, and local clubs like the Art club. The event, which will take place on May 23 at Sanford High School, has become a tradition that celebrates community and connection.
The event’s beginnings trace back to a discovery from the Maine Integrated Youth Health Survey (MIYHS) seven years ago. The answers were alarming when students were asked if they felt their community cared about them.
This year, more clubs are involved than ever before. Beth Letourneau, one of the event’s original organizers, explains, “We try to offer something for everyone, from free popcorn to an obstacle course, gaga ball, and maybe even Kona Ice, there’s plenty to look forward to. As well as the unveiling of this year’s This Is Us posters.”
The This Is US Posters include a positive adjective next to each students’ name, determined by adults in the building.
Letourneau points out that while the fun is the focus, a lot of planning happens behind the scenes. “Many hours go into this event behind the scenes. Clubs organizing what event they are in charge of, staff completing the This Is Us compliment form for students, set up/take down, and ordering of items for the event.”
Letourneau elaborates on what challenges are faced while planning this event, “The biggest challenge we face is hoping we have great weather… however, rain or shine, this event will take place! We are so excited to see the SHS students and staff attend this event.”
With excitement building, Letourneau and other staff members hope that This Is Us Day will be a day students won’t forget.
