Inter-Lakes Elementary School staff attend Red Sox Opening Day for scholarship fund

MEREDITH — Red Sox Opening Day holds a special place in the hearts of the staff at Inter-Lakes Elementary School. It’s more than just the start of a baseball season — it’s a cherished tradition that honors the memory of their beloved colleague, Sandy Blake. Embracing the Red Sox opening day carries forward Sandy’s love for the game and her dedication to education. It also gives the staff an opportunity to maintain the spirit of the day and to donate to Sandy’s scholarship fund, ensuring her passion for learning and baseball continues to make a lasting impact.

For over 30 years Blake found joy in teaching and showed compassion for every child in her classroom. More than a vocation, this was her calling and passion. Growing up in Meredith and attending Inter-Lakes as a student, Sandy returned to teach the majority of her career at Inter-Lakes. 

Growing up on wiffle ball and playing high school and summer college softball, the game of baseball was a family tradition and a personal passion. The Red Sox held a special place for Sandy with her favorite player being Tony Conigliaro. She knew the game well and kept meticulous records of game statistics. In addition to dressing up in Red Sox attire at ILES on opening day, she also dressed up as Wally the Green Monster on Halloween.

Sandy’s family created a scholarship in Sandy’s memory in 2021 for students entering the field of education.

“The scholarship is a way of remembering her dedication to teaching, students, and the Inter-Lakes community as well as helping to foster interest from the next generation in the profession,” said her daughter Samantha Smith.

The scholarship is managed and donations are accepted through the Inter-Lakes Scholarship Foundation, PO Box 545, Meredith NH 03253.

For more information, visit interlakes.org.