We have loved Sanford since setting foot in the doors. It is such a warm and welcoming environment where students are truly be themselves. Not only is the academics top notch, but my children are learning how to be good people and good citizens of this world. The community it’s strong at Sanford too. They truly care about your kids, and your family. I had some big medical events happen while my kids attended Sanford this year and the way the school and the parents supported my kids and my family was so unbelievable. It brings tear to my eyes thinking about it. Such a strong tight community. Our family can not say enough good things about this school and we are so happy we took the leap to become a Sanford community member.
Submitted by parent on February 03, 2024
I can’t be the only person confused about diversity at Sanford. This can’t be going unnoticed. They talk about diversity a lot and make an effort to incorporate it into most aspects at school but it seems like it’s not the reality. Head of school, head of upper school, head of middle school, entire admissions team and front office, art and theater department, counselors, deans, majority of coaches, majority of teachers, and majority of board of trustees are not super diverse. There are a few diverse people but very few. Honestly where are all the black and lgbtq+ hires? A black person in the performing arts department and more black kids in leading parts would be refreshing. Even the DEI representative lacks, with only a certificate and seems to be virtue signaling more than anything . The school could at least hire a someone with a solid DEI background and a lived experience for the position, and have that be a dedicated position to really help the community to do the work. It’s really disappointing because a real diversity experience was what was promoted but in reality it feels disingenuous. Wilmington Friends would be a better choice for a more sincere diverse experience for children. Sanford talks the talk but hasn’t fully walked the walk. Academically, athletically, artistically and socially the school is fine, nothing particularly special but solid.
Submitted by parent on January 26, 2024
My child’s experience at this school was disappointing. The institution operates more like a business, bombarding parents with excessive donation requests. The support staff, especially the counseling team, lacks effectiveness in providing adequate support for children. Teachers withhold information during conferences and tend to spring bad news on report cards. The admissions team feels more like a sales team pressuring parents to apply. Leadership is disorganized, lacking proper communication practices. In hindsight, the lack of transparency about the school’s issues is regrettable. Consider exploring other reputable private schools in the area before settling for Sanford to avoid unnecessary headaches.
Submitted by parent on June 30, 2022
Both of my children attend Sanford and we couldn’t be happier. They are confident, involved, enjoy the kind community and competitive sports. A fabulous place to grow up!
Submitted by other on September 18, 2020
I spent 5th grade to graduation at this school and want a similarly interactive, engaging, and positive social experience for my daughter, though I no longer live nearby. Sanford opened many doors for me and many of the teachers served as important role models to me during my formative years. Sanford also had exchange students, students who had just relocated from overseas, or foreign families in the student body which really broadened my horizons about other school systems and experiences. This was enormously valuable as I went on to pursue a career studying international relations and working for the government.
Submitted by other on July 10, 2019
I went there back in the 70's, but keep up to date with what is going on. It has become a very green school and has improved it's sports programs.
Submitted by parent on May 17, 2019
Excellent, we LOVE Sanford School! We never thought we would choose to send our children to private school all the way through, but we started with Sanford for our son for Pre-K and we are hooked. It’s an incredibly warm and supportive environment, while be extremely rigorous academically. It’s a perfect fit for our son.
Submitted by parent on July 20, 2018
Excellent. This is one of the finest schools in the region.
Submitted by parent on July 19, 2018
Fantastic. I attended a competing school as a student, and am involved with another. But my kids go to Sanford!
Submitted by parent on January 02, 2018
Disappointing. The school was a pillar of the community for generations. It has lost its soul under the new administration.
Submitted by parent on October 06, 2017
My son is in his first year here. The transition was extremely smooth. He is excited to go to school everyday. He says that "school days don't feel like school days at Sanford." He is extremely happy and is being challenged academically like never before.
Submitted by parent on May 05, 2017
Our child is in the Lower School. The faculty and staff are dedicated to each student. Each teacher wants to be there...you can tell they were meant to teach and are the best in their profession. Our child is receiving a world-class education in a caring, supportive and diverse environment. Take a tour and see it all for yourself.
Submitted by parent on April 25, 2017
We feel incredibly lucky to be part of the Sanford community. All three of our children are thriving at school and we are continually impressed by the passion of the faculty and administration.
Submitted by parent on April 20, 2017
Sanford has been the perfect choice for my children. The school has a strong sense of community; it's like a family. The school's leadership is outstanding and has been continually improving the program, the faculty and the facilities. The teachers are outstanding and are really invested in the student's success. The sports team coaches have helped my kids succeed on the field, and the school's teams overall have enjoyed great successes of late. Sanford is a gem. Our family has been extremely satisfied with our experience.
Submitted by parent on April 20, 2017
The community is exceptional. Friendly parents and students, along with exceptional teachers, create a stellar experience for members of the community. My children received an excellent education and were well prepared for college.
Submitted by parent on April 18, 2017
Sanford has been a wonderful experience for both of my children. Sanford is a positive, community-oriented environment for learning. The academic, athletic, and artistic opportunities are plentiful. Overall, Sanford is a great school!
Submitted by other on April 17, 2017
I attended Sanford School for a couple years, and I was immediately struck by how supportive and hands-on the teachers were with their approach to education. They provided me with all of the skills and work ethic I needed to go on to a very productive academic career in college, all the while I never felt like I was being thrust into situations that I could not handle. I was challenged and supported equally by the teaching staff, while still maintaining the time and comfort to build lifelong friendships and memories within their community. I would recommend Sanford to any student who wants a comfortable, community-based experience throughout their educational journey.
Submitted by other on April 12, 2017
I had a great experience as a student at Sanford. I was there from 1st through 12th grade and made many lifelong friends. The faculty and staff were unforgettable and they definitely prepared me for the level of work that I encountered as a college student. I would highly recommend this school.
Submitted by parent on April 07, 2017
I highly recommend Sanford School (Pre K - 12). Our children have been attending the school since Pre K and now ten years later, our oldest two are in Middle School. I encourage you to come visit the 100 acre campus, meet the faculty and administrators, and feel first hand the sense of community. From academics to athletics to the arts, Sanford offers something for everyone. Academics are rigorous and challenging but many support systems are in place. The recent completion of the new Performing Arts Center is a must see.
Submitted by parent on April 05, 2017
I have had three children attend Sanford. My oldest decided to go to an area Magnet school for High School because that was a better fit for her. My younger two children chose to stay at Sanford and are very happy they did. No school can be the perfect school for every child, but Sanford was terrific for my kids. The teachers are top notch and very caring. They are enthusiastic and love to teach. The administration is always open to parent concerns as are the teachers. The new performing arts center has been a great asset to the school in many ways. The musicals are great, as are the fine arts classes, and the sports teams are getting better every year with many energetic coaches.There is a new STEM lab with 3 D printing that is being integrated into the day to day classes.The administration and teachers are always looking for new and innovative ways to teach and engage students. The campus is wonderful.