This is the scene at Sanford High School’s new climbing wall, funded last year by the Sanford Schools Legacy Foundation so students would have an indoor climbing wall at the new high school. The foundation paid in advance for the climbing wall built by Wingspeed Adventures, using unrestricted funds, and is now seeking a sponsor ($17,500) in exchange for naming rights.
With his classmates cheering him on, freshman Corbin Frost sets a new wall climbing record at 12.36 seconds at Sanford High School in Sanford, Maine.
Part of the high school’s Outdoor Adventure physical education program, the climbing wall is a highlight of the program, says teacher Kevin Way. He trains his students to belay in the first two classes, then they are allowed to tackle the wall and the zipline. This goes hand in hand with three more classes outdoors on the new 350-foot zipline, also funded by the Legacy Foundation, expanded from the 150-foot line at the old school.
The wall offers the students a “challenge by choice.”
“They don’t have to climb to the top, but they at least have to try. They have to challenge themselves,” Way said. “This gives them the opportunity to grow.”
It’s also something different for the students. “It is so much fun,” said freshman Addison Long. “It’s crazy. I’ve been to other schools and there is nothing like this. It’s definitely a good arm workout. I like that everyone can try it out, so everyone gets a chance at it.”
Naming rights to the new climbing wall at Sanford High School are up for grabs. The Legacy Foundation funded the new installment in the gap between schools last year, and is now seeking a sponsor in exchange for naming rights. For consideration, please email legacy@sanford.org.
SHS had a wall at the old school, but it was outside and only one student could use it at a time. This new wall can accommodate three kids at a time — no matter the weather. The popularity of the class continues as word gets out.
“It allows tradition to continue. We’re very fortunate and we very much appreciate it,” said Way.
Back in class, with his classmates cheering him on, freshman Corbin Frost sets a new wall record with his 12.36-second climb. “I didn’t even think I could go that fast!”
Climbing wall sponsor sought
Naming rights to the new climbing wall at Sanford High School are now up for grabs. The Legacy Foundation funded the new installment in the gap between schools last year, and is now seeking a sponsor in exchange for naming rights. For consideration, please email legacy@sanford.org.
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