Tag: Biddeford Middle School

Biddeford students headed to York County spelling bee

~ Karen Garnett ~ Leave a comment

By KAREN GARNETT, Contributing Writer

Students from Biddeford and Saco schools showcased their spelling skills last month during their respective school Spelling Bees, earning top honors and advancing to the York County Spelling Bee on February 9, 2026, at Saco Middle School. Due to limited space, the event is not open to the public.

 Biddeford Middle School’s Spelling Bee Champion Ronan Lunianski and Runner-up Jordan Souliere. will be heading to the York County Spelling Bee (Contributed photo)

At CK Burns School, fifth-grade students Sage Daicy claimed the championship by correctly spelling gleaned, while Peter Galasyn earned the runner-up position and Calie Thayer placed third. At Saco Middle School, sixth-grader Toran King-Riggs secured the championship in round ten by correctly spelling Frankenstein, while sixth-grader Marko Marjanovic earned runner-up, and eighth-grader Layla Goodrich placed third. At Biddeford Middle School, seventh-grader Ronan Lunianski was named School Champion by correctly spelling equestrian, with sixth-grader Jordan Souliere earning the runner-up position. 

The York County Spelling Bee brings together top spellers from schools across the region for a rigorous, multi-round competition that challenges students’ vocabulary, composure, and perseverance. Participants advance by correctly spelling increasingly complex words, with judges and an official pronouncer guiding each round. The event celebrates academic achievement while encouraging confidence, focus, and a love of language.

“In past years, I’ve had the chance to watch students compete, and what stands out most is their courage,” said Jeremy Ray, Superintendent of Biddeford and Saco Schools. “Standing up in front of your peers, trusting your instincts, and pushing through pressure takes real grit. Whether they placed first or simply took the microphone and gave it their best, every one of these students made their school communities proud, and we wish them the best of luck at the York County Spelling Bee.”

The Biddeford and Saco School Departments congratulate all Spelling Bee participants for their preparation, perseverance, and outstanding sportsmanship, and wish their advancing students the best of luck at the York County Spelling Bee.

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Karen Garnett is Director of Communications for Biddeford, Saco and Dayton schools.

She can be reached at kgarnett@biddefordschools.me

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Biddeford Middle School presents ‘Moana JR.’

~ Karen Garnett ~ Leave a comment

By KAREN GARNETT, Contributing Writer

Disney’s Moana JR. is playing at Biddeford Middle School’s Performing Arts Center on Thursday, Feb. 12, 2026, and Friday, Feb. 13, 2026, at 6:30 p.m. each evening.

The 60-minute musical, adapted from the book by Susan Soon He Stanton and the 2016 Disney animated film, brings the adventures of Moana and her village of Motunui to life onstage. The Biddeford Middle School Drama Club’s cast includes 85 students led by Coleen Hatt and Rob Petit. 

“Much like Moana’s journey, this production is about courage, curiosity, and discovering your own voice. Our students have taken creative risks, supported one another, and grown tremendously throughout this process,” said BMS Drama Teacher Coleen Hatt.  “Performing for a live audience brings that journey full circle, and we hope our community will join us in celebrating their hard work, growth, and the joy of storytelling on stage.”

Moana JR. tells the story of Moana as she sets sail across the Pacific to save her village and discover the truth about her heritage. Moana and the legendary demigod Maui embark on an epic journey of self-discovery and camaraderie as both learn to harness the power that lies within. With empowering messages of bravery and selflessness, Moana JR. is sure to bring out the hero within each of us.  

Moana JR. features all the beloved songs from the film, written by Tony®, GRAMMY, Emmy, and Pulitzer Prize-winning composer Lin-Manuel Miranda, Opetaia Foa’i, and Mark Mancina, including “How Far I’ll Go,” “Shiny,” and “You’re Welcome,” with orchestration adapted and arranged by Ian Weinberger.  

Both shows are open to the public with donations accepted at the door. Seating is general admission, and doors will open at 6: p.m. The Facebook event can be found at https://bit.ly/4k5LAvQ.

Disney’s Moana JR. is presented through a special arrangement with, and all authorized performance materials are provided by, Music Theatre International (www.mtishows.com). 

For more information about licensing Moana JR. or other Disney shows, please visit www.DisneyMusicals.com.

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Karen Garnett is Director of Communications for Biddeford, Saco and Dayton schools.

She can be reached at kgarnett@biddefordschools.me

BMS Math Teams Undefeated

~ Randy Seaver ~ Leave a comment

By KAREN GARNETT

Biddeford Middle School’s (BMS) fifth and sixth-grade Math Meet teams earned first place at all four meets this season, finishing undefeated in the Southern Maine Elementary Math League. The seventh-grade team also delivered a strong performance in the Southern Maine Math League, consistently placing in the top half of competitors across four meets.

The fifth and sixth-grade teams’ undefeated run was bolstered by multiple individual students finishing in the top five at each event, highlighting both team and individual achievement. Top-performing students included Maddox Keddy, Ollie Long, Murphy Adams, Aurora Wilson, Nora LeBlanc, Josie LeBlanc, Charles Larsen, Tyler Blais, Kay Pierson, and Noah Villiora, who consistently ranked among the highest scorers throughout the season, a testament to their consistent performance and preparation.

Biddeford Middle School’s (BMS) sixth-grade Math Meet placed first at their last meet of the year! Pictured: (L-R) Kaden Hinson, Noah Villora, Nora LeBlanc, Kay Pierson, Josie LeBlanc, and Charles Larsen. (Contributed Photo)

The seventh-grade team, competing in the Southern Maine Math League, also had a commendable year. They secured 2nd place at the first meet, followed by 4th place finishes at both the second and third meets, and 6th place at the season’s final meet.

“We are so proud of our students’ dedication and perseverance throughout the year,” said Suzanne Tighe, BMS Math Meet Coach. “They put in the effort week after week, and their results reflect not only talent, but also teamwork and a true love of learning.”

Biddeford Middle School Principal Scott Descoteaux added, “It’s exciting to see our students thriving in such a challenging academic setting. The success of these teams is a reflection of the hard work by our staff, families, and—most importantly—our students. We look forward to seeing what they accomplish next.”

 Biddeford Middle School’s (BMS) fifth grade Math Meet team earned first place at all four meets this season, finishing undefeated in the Southern Maine Elementary Math League. Pictured: (Front Row, L-R) Kalina Simard, Ollie Long, Theodore Pierson, Carson Charland; (Middle Row, L-R) Julia Pettyjohn, Natalie Deschambault, Libby Loranger, Aurora Wilson; and (Back Row, L-R) Murphy Adams, Joe LeBlanc, Tyler Blais, Maddox Keddy. (Contributed Photo)

Biddeford Middle School is proud to celebrate the success and hard work of its students. These young mathematicians demonstrated strong teamwork, critical thinking, and academic excellence. Their achievements set a positive example for peers and reflect the vibrant academic culture at BMS.

Karen Garnett is the communications director for the Biddeford School System. She can be contacted at kgarnett@biddefordschools.me

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