Mark's Meadow PGG

PICNIC

2010-06-16T14:48:00.001-04:00

THE PICNIC IS Postponed until Thursday 6/17 5:30 to 7:30PM. Weather report for Tonight is: Showers and a possible thunderstorm during the evening will give way to cloudy skies after midnight. Low 63F. Winds SSW at 10 to 15 mph. Chance of rain 70%.

This year we have some great volunteers organized by Val Cooley and Abril Navarro López who are running a CARNIVAL-STYLE night with games and prizes. Games start at 6:00 . We encourage all TEACHERS, FAMILIES and COMMUNITY MEMBERS TO ATTEND. We can go out with a BANG! THE FINAL ROCKET LAUNCH (OR "SHOOTING STAR") will happen at the end of the picnic.

Some things you should know about the evening are listed below.

This is a Picnic.
Bring your family's meal, a blanket or chairs, and a dessert to share.
PGG will provide Drinks, paper goods and flat ware.
Also bring your Year Book to get signatures. (ALL CHILDREN RECEIVED A FREE BOOK TODAY put their names in the books)
Amherstopoly will be sold (discounted price of $20) to raise money that will go towards making payment for tee-shirts.
Even if you do not want an Amherstopoly game, or may already have one, please consider making a donation towards the tee-shirts. We need to raise $800 more such that we can give (for free) one to every student on Thursday.

Note to parents. The PGG has asked for no donations this year towards any of the festivities or projects that have been provided by teachers and the PGG. Events like, The Beginning-of-the-Year-Potluck, The Community Breakfast, Rock and Read, Multicultural Fair, The Staff Appreciation Luncheon, The Historical Alumni Party, Sixth grade Graduation, THIS Picnic, and The Third Grade Musical, Performances at UMass, Pizza Parties after the Library Visits. . Projects like the Class Directory, The Mosaic Tile Project, team building at Morris Hill, subsidized field trips, and a mentoring program for 6th graders. We have also provided funds for snacks for the after school homework clubs and MACS. As well as babysitting for import school meetings.

So please make as large of a donation at the picnic as you can. $5, $10, $20 or more...such that every child leaves Mark's Meadow tomorrow with a shirt. The Tee-shirts are made form a student design contest. We have two lovely designs that won. One from the upper grade and one from the lower grade. They are commemorative tee-shirts that you and your children will cherish for a long time. The cost to make these T-Shirts is about $10 each and we are giving them to the kids. Do what you can to help.

A VERY Special Thanks goes out to Alyssa Melnick and Stefan and Sarah Petrucha, Catherine Stryker and many more listed in the yearbook, AND some of our amazing 6th graders, who spent an enormous amount of time on our very terrific YEARBOOK. Many of you may not know this but Alyssa ran an after school yearbook club, where-in the sixth graders helped collect images, put together designs, sold "shout out" space and raised enough money to cover the cost of the production such that they can "GIVE" every student a yearbook. This is what I call is community in action. When you see these folks at the picnic give them a thanks!.

SEE YOU THERE!

Best, Tracy Hightower

From the PGG Officers we thank you for a wonderful year.
Meg, Prentiss, Adrain and the rest of the PGG Gang

6th soon to be 7th grade summer reading and math opportunities.

2010-06-11T07:24:00.000-04:00

ARMS is sending home a letter to all the 6th grade - soon to be 7th grade - families about summer reading and math opportunities to keep up math and reading skills while not in school. The letters are posted on the ARMS website at www.arps.org/ms

LAST DAY OF SCHOOL EARLY RELEASE

2010-06-04T07:06:00.001-04:00

Thursday June 17th, LAST DAY OF SCHOOL 1:20 PM RELEASE (Note this changed just last week due to the school closing after the thunderstorm.)

Thank a Teacher! Deadline June 10

2010-06-03T13:02:00.001-04:00

Did you know that when asked what type of gift would make them feel most appreciated, the majority of teachers polled by the National Education Association last year said "a simple thank you" was all.

Why not send them a meaningful thank you and support Amherst Education Foundation's mission to strengthen our schools at the same time? AEF will deliver a personalized Thank You card to the person you wish to honor during the last week of school and your contribution will be used for grants to schools next year.

Visit www.amhersteducationfoundation.org before June 10 to make a donation and thank the special teachers in your life!

(Click on the image to print)

Celebrate Mark’s Meadow

2010-06-03T12:59:00.001-04:00

Celebrate Mark’s Meadow

June 12^th, 2010

6:00-8:30 PM

Come join us for an alumni event to celebrate Mark’s Meadow’s nearly 50-years of educating our kids. We are thinking that it would be a relatively simple affair, a buffet POTLUCK* dinner, in the gym or outside. Please bring a dish to share. Some food is being provided by Atkins Market. We will also be gathering in the auditorium for a slide show and have a time where people could share memories of what MM has meant in their lives.

This event is meant for former and present staff and alum parents and young adults of alum families. This is an event for adults and young adults only please. For more details as we have them, become a Fan of “Celebrate Mark's Meadow” on Facebook and tell others who love Mark’s Meadow to join us there too.

Please RSVP by June 8th

Via email to celebratemarksmeadow@gmail.com.

Call 413-362-1308,

The Mark’s Meadow Special Events line.

If you want to VOLUNTEER and help organize this event, please contact Tracy Hightower. Tracy@waterfieldfarms.net

*POTLUCK: Last Name A Thru I, Bring Main Dish for 8

Last Name J Thru R, Bring Veggie or Fruit Dish for 8

Last Name S thru Z, Bring A Dessert for 8

LSSE Special Offer

2010-06-03T12:47:00.000-04:00

Hello all,

I just wanted to make one last submission for your respective PGO blogs regarding LSSE Summer Sports Camps if possible. Just something to the effect that this Friday, June 4^th, will the last day to Save $10 on all summer sports camps. Let me know either way if you can get the word out! Thanks.

Owen Stebbins

Summer Sports Camp Coordinator

Town of Amherst Leisure Services

(o)413-259-3206

2010-05-31T07:27:00.000-04:00

Tuesday, June 1st, K and 1st Graders visit Wildwood.

Thursday, June 3rd Tile Project Dedication, 5 PM:

Tuesday June 8th, 3rd Grade Play 2:30 PM and 7 PM: Things stll needed for wardrobe and Props. 4 pair of white tights size 8 or 10, 1 pair of Red Tights size 12, 1 pair of yellow tights size 8 or 10. A small wheel barrow, (kids size). If you have any of these bring them to the office and leave them for Susan Vegiard and Mary May.

Wednesday June 9th, Staff Appreciation Luncheon: Volunteer sign-up sheets went home on Friday. Please fill in how you can help with this event and send it back to the office ASAP. It is necessary for many parents to volunteer for this event for it to be successful. If you would like to Donate food or flowers or money, help organize before the event or participate on the day of the event please fill out the form or contact Koren Berrio (korenberrio71@hotmail.com), Keisha Dennis (ktjdennis@hotmail.com) or Tracy Hightower (Tracy@waterfieldfarms.net).

Friday June 11th, 6th Grade UN Trip to NYC

Saturday June 12th, Celebrate Mark's Meadow Alumni Event (POTLUCK): All current Mark's Meadow Parents are invited to this event. IT IS AN ADULT AND YOUNG ADULT (TEENAGERS) EVENT. This event is separate from the End-of-the-School Year picnic. See more details and RSVP by CLICKING HERE!. Join the Celebrate Mark's Meadow Fan page for updates by CLICKING HERE.

Monday June 14th, Field Day

Tuesday June 15th, 6th grade Graduation Day

Wednesday June 16th, End-of-the-School Year Picnic: We need volunteers to make this event extra special. Contact Val Cooley, Prentiss Austin or Meg Rosa if you would like to help plan a very special event. Any time or donations for this event would be greatly appreciated by the whole community. Val: cooley.valerie@gmail.com Prentiss: paustin@student.umass.edu Meg: megan.rosa@comcast.net.

Thursday June 17th, Rain day End of the Year Picnic

Thursday June 17th, LAST DAY OF SCHOOL(Note this changed just last week due to the school closing after the thunderstorm.)

LSSE Summer Programs

2010-05-26T16:16:00.001-04:00

Click on image to enlarge and or print.

Travel Soccer Team Tryouts.

2010-05-26T15:51:00.000-04:00

Soccer tryout pre-registration forms are due this Saturday, May 29th so I was hoping you could post this reminder on the blogs:

Attention current first graders through sixth graders: Do you want to play on the Amherst Travel Soccer team? There are separate girls' teams and boys' teams for every age group.

Travel Soccer Team Tryouts. Travel Soccer Tryout information for the Fall 2010 and Spring 2011 seasons is now available at http://www.amherstsoccer.org.

Please be advised the tryout pre-registration form is due by Saturday May 29. http://www.amherstsoccer.org/Travel%20Tryouts%2010-11.htm

Legal Services Subcommittee of the Regional School Committee

2010-05-26T15:49:00.002-04:00

I've been asked to let you all know that the Legal Services Subcommittee of the Regional School Committee has extended the deadline for submitting ideas for interview questions. The question list they develop will be used to interview law firms under consideration to represent the three districts of Amherst, Pelham and the Region. Questions may be submitted to Irv Rhodes through Monday, May 24th at rhodesi@arps.org .

Amherst Police Department Open House

2010-05-19T10:12:00.001-04:00

Click to enlarge image.

Thank a Teacher! End-Of-School-Year-Gift idea!

2010-05-18T06:47:00.001-04:00

A whole lot of things going on.

2010-05-14T18:22:00.003-04:00

LIBRARY: Susan McQuaid could use any help, no experience needed. As a volunteer you would be labeling books and doing other tasks needed for the packing up of the library. Volunteers could call Susan at the MM library 362 1316 or email at mcquaids@arps.org.

TILE PROJECT: Diane Travis could still use a couple parents to help with this project. Contact her for more information. travisd@arps.org

THE THIRD GRADE PLAY IS JUNE 8th and we need a few PROPS. A rope swing with a disk you sit on, a portable swimming pool ladder and a small wooden wheel barrow. If you have any of these items let Tracy know. Tracy@waterfieldfarms.net.

An invitation to all new Crocker Farm families

Welcome New Families!

To all new Crocker Farm families,
Welcome to the Crocker Farm community! We'd like to remind you that you are invited to join us for these remaining casual social events. We’d love to meet you, your children, and your friends for relaxed conversation and play. There’s no need to confirm (unless noted), just come by and get to know a few NEW friends from your wonderful new school. Welcome to our community!
Becky Demling and Lucy McMurrer (PGO co-chairs)

Friday May 21, 6:00 - 8:00 PM, Amherst Coffee. Have a coffee or a glass of wine and meet with new friends.
Wednesday May 26, 6:30 – 8:30 PM, New Families Open House. An opportunity to meet the principal and see the school.
Thursday June 3, 3:30 – 4:30 PM, Flayvors of Cook’s Farm. Buy an ice cream cone and meet some new friends! For children and adults.
Friday June 4, 7:00 – 9:00 PM, at Sue Bernier’s home (817 Bay Road). Come for hors d'oeuvres and friendly adult conversation. (Please call or email to confirm: 256-1164 or susanbernier68@comcast.net)
Saturday June 5, 3:00 – 5:00 PM, Groff Park. "Potluck Picnic at the Park”. Bring your children and food or drink to share. Bring games and balls, too! We’ll have limbo dancing and music. (No event if the weather is bad.)

There are also a few Crocker Farm school events coming up that we would like to invite you to attend:
Friday May 21 6:00 – 8:00 PM, Movie Night, Crocker Farm Cafeteria. Now Showing: "Spirit: Stallion of the Cimarron,"
Saturday June 5, 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM, Annual PGO Tag Sale, Crocker Farm Lobby
Friday June 4, 8:40 – 9:40 AM, Coffee with the Principal, Crocker Farm Community Room

Travel Soccer Tryout information for the Fall 2010 and Spring 2011 seasons is now available at http://www.amherstsoccer.org.

Please be advised the tryout pre-registration form is due by Saturday May 29. http://www.amherstsoccer.org/Travel%20Tryouts%2010-11.htm

Here is the Tryout Schedule:

2010-2011 Travel Soccer Age Brackets:

U-9 – Born on or after August 1, 2001

U-10 – Born on or after August 1, 2000

U-11 – Born on or after August 1, 1999

U-12 – Born on or after August 1, 1998

U-13 – Born on or after August 1, 1997

U-14 – Born on or after August 1, 1996

2010-2011 Travel Soccer TRYOUT SCHEDULE 2 of 3

ALL TRYOUTS WILL BE HELD AT CROCKER FARM SCHOOL IN AMHERST

ATTENDANCE AT TRYOUTS IS MANDATORY

Tuesday June 1 - U9 BOYS 5:30 – 8:00pm

Wednesday June 2 - U9 GIRLS 5:30 – 8:00pm

Thursday June 3 – U10 BOYS 5:30 – 8:00pm

Friday June 4 – U10 GIRLS 5:30 – 8:00pm

Monday June 7 – U11 BOYS 5:30 – 8:00pm

Tuesday June 8 – U11 GIRLS 5:30 – 8:00pm

Wednesday June 9 – U12 BOYS 5:30 – 8:00pm

Thursday June 10 – U12 GIRLS 5:30 – 8:00pm

Monday June 14 – U13 BOYS 5:30 – 8:00pm

Tuesday June 15 – U13 GIRLS 5:30 – 8:00pm

Wednesday June 16 – U14 BOYS 5:30 – 8:00pm

Thursday June 17 – U14 GIRLS 5:30 – 8:00pm

Consider This!

2010-05-06T14:40:00.001-04:00

CELEBRATE MARK'S MEADOW

Have a Facebook account? Join us!

Our Teachers are Stars & May 4th is Their Day to Shine!

2010-04-26T13:07:00.001-04:00

Let your favorite teacher know how much you appreciate all their hard work, care, expertise and dedication. Have a Shining Star delivered to them on May 4th - National Teacher Appreciation Day!

Make a gift to the Amherst Education Foundation (AEF) in honor of a teacher and AEF will deliver a note of appreciation to your teacher. And your tax-deductible gift will go to support important work in our schools next year.

Click on the image to print out a form & mail it in today! Or visit www.amhersteducationfoundation.org. Thanks!

Sign up for the Wildwood Blog

2010-04-26T13:03:00.002-04:00

Future Wildwood Families: Would you like to receive the WW blog via email? Each day there are new items posted to the blog, you’ll receive an email with that day’s information.

To sign up, go to www.wildwoodpto.org . On the right side, look for “Receive the Blog by Email”. Click that link, and follow the instructions.

This is a great way to make sure you don’t miss any news because you forgot to check the blog!

Rotary Club of Amherst Gives $25,000 to build the Crocker Farm Play Ground

2010-04-26T12:58:00.005-04:00

The Crocker Farm PGO is pleased to announce that our community has been awarded the Rotary Club of Amherst $25,000 Community Grant for the playground!

Thanks to this generous award, we only need to raise $5,300 more to reach the $43,400 needed to build a new playground!

Please consider helping us reach this final goal by participating in one of the following fund raisers:

Multi-Arts Raffle Multi Arts is sponsoring a raffle with all proceeds benefiting the Crocker Farm Playground Initiative. Raffle ticket costs $15 for 1 or 2 for $20. The winner will receive a free Multi-Arts camp session (up to a $585 value) good for summer 2010. The raffle runs until May 4th.

Town Fair Fundraiser on May 8^th The CF PGO and Rotary Club of Amherst are partnering up to ask for donations from Town Fair attendees as well as run a 50/50 raffle. Simply sign up for a shift as long or as short as you need. We will be working from 11 AM – 6 PM on the Town Common.

Electronics Collection Fundraiser on May 15^th Sign up to work a short shift between 8 AM and 1 PM or for a small disposal fee per item, electronics may be brought to the Crocker Farm parking lot for recycling. Residents of surrounding communities are welcome.

Items may include, but are not limited to, computer monitors, laptops, CPUs, servers, CD rom/DVD drives, speakers, mice, keyboards, plugs, computer wires/parts/accessories, copy/fax/scanner/printers, phones and phone systems of any kind, UPS (computer battery backup systems), camera/video/audio equipment, DVD players, stereos, VCRs, walkmans, iPods and accessories, microwaves, air conditioners, refrigerators, freezers, dehumidifiers, hot water tanks/heaters, washing machines, dryers, stoves, and dishwashers. All items must be empty and contain no gasoline, oil, or water.

Buy one of those fabulous “I helped build the Crocker Farm Playground” t-shirts for $10 or just simply donate to the playground effort through AEF or the PGO.

Anything you do helps bring the playground to fruition. Our sincere thanks goes out to everyone who donated their money or time to get us this far.

Questions? Please contact Becky at 230-3306 or email the PGO at crockerfarmpgo@gmail.com.

Chess Club information for Wildwood next fall

2010-04-01T10:15:00.000-04:00

We want to extend an invitation for all of the children and parents from Mark’s Meadow to participate in Wildwood’s highly successful parent-run afterschool chess club. Up to 100 kids participate in this club every year, and it has become a beloved and much-anticipated tradition at our school. Look for a sign-up sheet in your child’s backpack next fall.

I have had a wonderful experience leading the chess club for the last three years with the help of other parent volunteers, and now with my daughter graduating, I’m looking to pass the hat to the next parent or group of parent leaders. I’m hoping some of these volunteers will be among you, the new members of our school community.

Here’s what‘s needed:

administration that can be done at home, ie: collecting forms and assigning kids to groups (no chess knowledge required). Helps to be able to create spreadsheets and email lists. Approximate time required: 3 hours each semester.
leading weekly 1 hour chess club sessions for beginning, intermediate or advanced players. Knowledge of chess is pretty important. I generally give a 15-20 minute ‘lesson’ at the start of each session, then let them just play each other for the rest of the time. Time: 2 hours each week
organizing snack (no chess knowledge required). We usually have a sign up sheet at beginning of session and parents bring snack throughout.
overseeing the operation – working with the club leaders to determine best days, printing and distributing the sign-up forms, sending group emails, generally keeping track. Time: 7 hours per semester

Please email me or call 212.595.3585 if you would like to take part in this fun activity with the kids. The materials have already been purchased, and a successful organizational structure is already in place. We could really use your help to keep this wonderful activity going, and it’s a fun way to volunteer at the school and get to know the children.

I look forward to meeting you,

Mat Lebowitz
mat@mlcreative.com
212.595.3585

UPDATE:

2010-03-31T16:43:00.001-04:00

Finalists Announced for Middle School Principal Position

Submitted by kochn on Tue, 03/23/2010 - 7:57am.

UPDATE, March 31:

Mr. Paul Goodhind notified the Human Resources Director this afternoon that he is withdrawing from the finalist pool as Middle School Principal. The remaining candidates, Mr. Michael Hayes and Mr. Karsten Schlenter, will be spending a full day in the district tomorrow as previously scheduled.

Three finalists have been announced for the position of Amherst Regional Middle School Principal: Karsten Schlenter, Michael Hayes, and Paul Goodhind.

The finalists will visit the district on Thursday, April 1, 2010 and will spend the day on site at the Middle School in a variety of settings. Each candidate will begin his day with a building tour, followed by meetings with staff, students, elementary and secondary administrators, and Central Office administrators. The public forums will be held in the Middle School library on the evening of April 1 at the following times:

Karsten Schlenter 6:30 - 7:15 p.m.
Michael Hayes 7:15 - 8:00 p.m.

We invite all members of the community to attend the forums and provide input into this very important decision for our school district.

For more information about the search, see www.arps.org/node/1252.

Forum to meet the 3 finalists for the Middle School Principal

2010-03-31T12:28:00.002-04:00

Three finalists have been announced for the position of Amherst Regional Middle School Principal: Karsten Schlenter, Michael Hayes, and Paul Goodhind.

Karsten Schlenter 6:30 - 7:15 p.m.
Michael Hayes 7:15 - 8:00 p.m.
Paul Goodhind 8:00 - 8:45 p.m.

We invite all members of the community to attend the forums and provide input into this very important decision for our school district.

For more information about the search, see www.arps.org/node/1252.

Ice Skating for new Wildwood families

2010-03-30T16:12:00.000-04:00

Calling all current and future Wildwood families!

The Wildwood PGO is hosting ice skating at the Mullins Center at UMass this Saturday, April 3, from 2-3:50pm. This event is free and includes rental skates. Please come to this fun event!

Also, there will be a bake sale to help Crocker Farm raise money for a new playground. If you'd like to contribute to this effort, please bring a baked good to sell.

If you have any questions, please contact Andrea Coleman Baird (413) 256-8050/ colemanbaird@gmail.com or Taryn LaRaja 549-7979 tlaraja@gmail.com .

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¡Llamando toda las familias del presente y el futuro de Wildwood!

El Wildwood PGO te invita a patinar en el Mullins Center de la universidad de UMASS este Sabado el 3 de Abril, de 2-3:50. Este acontecimiento es gratis y incluye alquilar patines.

¡Por favor vengas a patinar con nosotros para pasar un gran tiempo!

Tambien, se va a vender postres para ayudar a Crocker Farm construir un nuevo patio de recreo. Si quieres ayudar con esta meta, por favor traigas postre para vender.

Si tienes preguntas, llamas a Andrea Coleman Baird (413) 256-8050 or colemanbaird@gmail.com or Taryn LaRaja 549-7979 tlaraja@gmail.com

Go,Kids Art,Go!

2010-03-30T16:08:00.002-04:00

NOT A SCHOOL SPONSORED EVENT

COMMUNITY NEWS DON'T MISS OUT

2010-03-20T17:30:00.003-04:00

LSSE SOFTBALL and FLAG FOOTBALL

LSSE softball has two divisions, 3^rd-4^th grade and 5^th-6^th grade. Practices start in early April with games starting in May. The cost is $89. Flag football is for boys and girls in grades 1^st-6^th. There are 8 clinics on Tuesdays and Thursdays starting April 13^th. The cost is $59. For more information please call LSSE.

Thanks, Allan Sobon

Sports and Recreation Intern LSSE

413.297.7285- Cell
413.259.3060- Office
sobona@amherstma.gov

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LEAGUE OF WOMEN VOTERS BOOK SALE

Donate Books for League of Women Voters Book Sale
Collection of used books for the annual League of Women Voters book sale will begin March 24, with collection sites at 479 West Street, Unit 8; Hadley Stop & Shop; the Jones, North Amherst, and South Amherst libraries; and the UPS store on University Drive. The sale will take place April 30, May 1 and 2 under the tent on the Amherst Town Common.

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WILDWOOD COMMUNITY COFFEES

The Wildwood Community Coffees with the Principal will be held on the following days from 8:30-9:30 am in the cafeteria, followed by Visitors Day tours of the building

4/1, 4/16, 4/30, 5/14

HEY ALL YOU FACEBOOKERS Celebrate Mark's Meadow

2010-03-19T12:43:00.002-04:00

Do you have a Facebook Account? Now you can Celebrate Mark's Meadow by joining this group. There are many yearend events that we will posted there and here. A lots of sentimental pictures and historical stories from former students and staff members.

Please join the group.

The Amherst Education Foundation has met its challenge!

2010-03-19T12:12:00.001-04:00

Thanks to all of our supporters who made this possible, and to the anonymous donor who got it all started. The success of this matching grant will enable AEF to fully fund the exciting work already underway in our schools. For more information about what AEF is funding this year, just click on the link below.

http://www.amhersteducationfoundation.org/node/40

2010-03-10T10:49:00.002-05:00

BREAKING NEWS: The Amherst Education Foundation has been challenged! Please join your community in support of our schools and help AEF meet an exciting challenge. We are trying to raise $10,000 by midnight on Monday, March 15 in order to qualify for a $5,000 matching challenge grant.

We are about half way towards meeting our goal. Please make a gift of any amount before midnight on Monday!!

You can get more information about the great projects your donation will help support in 2010 at AEF’s website and you can give online there, too! But don't put it off--we need your help TODAY to meet the challenge. Thank you!

Rock & Read. Another Successful Mark's Meadow Event. Happy Birthday Dr. Seuss!

2010-03-07T19:57:00.014-05:00

Crocker Farm Dance-a-Thon

2010-03-04T16:45:00.001-05:00

Please remember to return your Dance-a-Thon sign up sheet to your school as soon as possible to help Crocker Farm with planning. Dance-a-Thon Pledge Sheets will be sent home on Monday, March 8th. Bring those with you, along with all your pledge money, to the dance on Friday, March 19th, from 6:30 to 8:00 p.m. This will be the largest playground fundraiser Crocker Farm is planning and we need everyone's participation to make it a success! Don't like to dance? Just join us, listen to good music, and enjoy our pizza and dessert tables! For more info, please call Becky at 230-3306 or Lucy at 253-9331.

Becky Demling
Crocker Farm PGO Co-Chair
beckydemling@yahoo.com
413-230-3306

FYI- CF will pick up all sheets tomorrow afternoon from each school. Thanks for your support!

Amherst Education Foundation Challenge!

2010-03-01T15:27:00.004-05:00

The Amherst Education Foundation is excited to announce a great opportunity to support our students, teachers and schools!
There's much more info and an opportunity to donate at www.amhersteducationfoundation.org. Thanks for taking a look!

(click on the image to see a full sized view)

A Year with Frog and Toad

2010-02-20T12:55:00.001-05:00

This year's musical at the high school will be of special interest to families with younger students. A Year with Frog and Toad is a relatively recent Broadway musical, based on the popular children's books. It is scheduled to go out on tour again soon, but we have been issued the rights to perform it here this spring. It will certainly appeal to the elementary school crowd, but its sly wit and clever questioning of the intersections between dream and reality will make it engaging for older students and adults as well.

Performance dates Thursday, Feb. 25: 7:30

Friday, Feb. 26: 7:30

Saturday, Feb. 27: 2:00

Saturday, Feb. 27: 7:30

All performances are in the ARHS auditorium

Snow date Sunday, March 1: 2:00

Ticket Prices Reserved seats (rows F-Q)

$15 for general public

$10 for students/seniors/staff

Unreserved seats (rows R-Z)

$10 for general public $8 for students/seniors/staff

Ticket Availability at ARHS cafeteria during lunches Beginning Feb. 23 (10-noon, week of Feb. 23 only)

Or at the door, 1½ hours before

performances

Or e-mail Claudia at arhsmusicals@gmail.com

to reserve seats (and pay when

you pick them up)

Checks should be made payable to ARHS Musical

Contact: Claudia Weinberg

arhsmusicals@gmail.com

413/563-7265

Rock and Read Day

2010-02-20T12:48:00.001-05:00

On Friday, March 5, Marks Meadow will celebrate Dr. Seuss' birthday with our annual Rock and Read Day! The celebration will last all day, with a morning assembly, green eggs and ham for lunch, and an opportunity for each class to spend time rocking and reading. There might even be some visits from Dr. Seuss characters! Parents, if you would like to be involved in decorating for this event or can loan a rocking chair for the day, please contact MM parent Cathy Luna, at lunac@educ.umass.edu or 549 3992.

Five Important Messages

2010-02-11T09:41:00.004-05:00

Yearbook
Beloved Mark’s Meadow Families:

This is your last chance to participate! The deadline is Friday! 2/12/10

The Mark’s Meadow Elementary School Yearbook Club needs your help. We want to make this year’s Mark’s Meadow yearbook something very special. But, producing 200 color yearbooks takes funding. To help with this very last Marks Meadow Yearbook, we are asking families if they are willing to sponsor the publication by purchasing a space. You can advertise a business or can shout out to individuals, to the school, or to an entire classes…

$20 for your company name to appear on a sponsor list
$30 for ¼ of a page advertisement
$60 for half a page advertisement
$120 for a full page advertisement

Your advertisement will go to all the families of Mark’s Meadow and be part of this Mark’s Meadow memento which is sure to be shown to all their friends and extended family!

To make a donation please mail a check payable to Mark's Meadow PGG.

To place an ad, please mail the final draft (in actual ¼, ½ or full page size) along with a check (To Marks Meadow PGG) for the corresponding amount to:

Marks Meadow Elementary School
c/o Yearbook Club - Alyssa Melnick
813 North Pleasant Street
Amherst, MA 01002

If possible send an additional PDF copy via email to:
sarahk@petrucha.com

Questions?
Call Alyssa Melnick at 413 549-3614 or Sarah Kinney at 413 549-0266.
If you would care to make an additional donation we would greatly appreciate it!

Thank You!
Mark’s Meadow 6th Graders 2010

Multicultural Fair MARCH 17th
Don't forget to hand in your Volunteer sign up sheet! Only a few parents have handed in these forms which tell the Multicultural Fair Committee how much help they can count on. There are many of the staff helping with the entertainment and organizing the event. Let them know you are willing to help by volunteering for this all-school event. Therese Chehade, Kristen Roeder, Diane Mercomes, Danielle Kadinoff, Nick Yaffe, Neusa Ribeiro,

6th Graders
Parents and guardians of current 6th Grade students should plan to visit to the middle school on Wednesday, February 24th from 7 to 8:30pm for 6th Grade Orientation. This is an adult only introduction to the Amherst Regional Middle School. The evening is an opportunity to learn about the registration process, the 7th grade curriculum, elective classes, and supports available for students. Discover teams, advisory, clubs and the Family School Partnership. Find the answers to your questions. We hope that every parent/guardian will be able to attend this important 6th Grade Parent/Guardian Orientation Night at ARMS.

Amherst Survival Center Family Night

Want a night off from cooking? Join us this Monday February 15th, as the Amherst Survival Center hosts Family Night. Come with the kids for supper, fun activities, and collage art crafts. Open to everyone! Drop-in between 4:30-6:30, supper is served 5:00-6:00. Access to all our free programs, including free groceries and free clothing, is available.

Black History Month Lunch Community Event

Looking for something to do as a family? Come celebrate Black History Month this Wednesday, February 17th, 12-1 pm. Held at North Congregational Church Parish Hall (1199 North Pleasant Street), put on by the Amherst Survival Center. Delicious food, friends, and music. Free and all are welcome! Call 549-3968 x 202 for more information.

Eat Out and Help Crocker Farm

2010-02-05T10:49:00.001-05:00

Click on the image for invitation.

Four-Towns Meeting

2010-02-04T14:04:00.001-05:00

Four-Towns Meeting

Saturday, February 6, 2010
9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Amherst Regional Middle School Library

Welcome and Introductions

Reports from Boston—Senator Stan Rosenberg (and Rep Story may attend, while Rep Kulik has a prior engagement)

Updated Revenue Assumptions and Budget Projections
State Funding
Use of E&D Funding
Use of School Choice Funding

Potential Cuts to Level Services in the FY2011 Budget

Assessments to Member Towns
FY2011 Scenarios
Projected Member Town Assessment % for FY11-16

Guidance from Member Towns
Assessments & Budget Support

Town Meeting Calendar
Warrant Articles Due Dates

Adjournment

Stay Connected Meetings

2010-01-30T11:55:00.001-05:00

Let’s Stay Connected!

Amherst Public Schools

Parent/Guardian-School Connection: Spring 2010

Meetings for Parents and Guardians of Elementary School Children
with School Personnel

**Childcare provided **Spanish Translation Provided

**Other Translation Provided Upon Request

Wednesday, March 3, 2010 6:30-8:00 PM Health and Well Being Fair for
Families of Students in Grades PreK-2, Crocker Farm School

*FUN ACTIVITIES FOR KIDS AND THEIR PARENTS/GUARDIANS

*SNACKS *PRIZES *HANDOUTS *SHARING OF IDEAS

Friday, March 5, 2010 9:00-10:00 AM
“How can we best support our kids?” Meeting for Parents and Guardians of
Students PreK-6, Professional Development Center, Middle School

Thursday, May 13, 2010 7:00-8:00 PM “Celebrating This Year and Looking
Forward to Next Year” Meeting for Parents and Guardians of Students PreK-6,

Professional Development Center, Middle School
**Call Ms. Mildred Martinez 362-1871 with any questions

New Wildwood Families Get Together!!!

2010-01-26T20:14:00.001-05:00

There will be an informal, fun get together for the parents and guardians of ALL children who will be attending Wildwood Elementary next year. We are hoping to spend time getting to know one another in a casual, no-pressure setting. We will meet for drinks, good conversation and laughs at the Moan and Dove on Tuesday February 9th at 7:30 pm. Please spread the word and bring friends. Any questions? Contact, Andrea Coleman (colemanbaird@gmail.com)

Crocker Farm Playground Fundraising

2010-01-26T12:37:00.001-05:00

Calling all Amherst residents... We need your help building a new playground at Crocker Farm! Our existing equipment is almost 20 years old, in bad shape, and many components are broken. The landscaping needs to be updated to adhere to legal codes and provide basic safety. There is simply not enough equipment to meet the physical needs of the school.

The proposed new playground for Crocker Farm is a lively outdoor space which will better support Crocker Farm's growing student body. It also will be a destination play area for the greater Amherst community. Playgrounds encourage children to develop strong social skills, understanding of spatial concepts, and appreciation for physical activity.

With redistricting, it is more important than ever to create a play space that meets the physical needs of a expanding school. We have an ambitious goal of raising $40,000 to have a new playground installed this summer. Please help us reach this goal by donating today! Donations can be made online at crockerfarmpgo@blogspot.com or mailed to:

Crocker Farm PGO

280 West Street

Amherst, MA 01002

ATTN: Playground

Internet Safety Information

2010-01-26T12:21:00.001-05:00

The latest edition of the excellent online safety booklet is available at http://www.onguardonline.gov/pdf/tec04.pdf It has great parenting tips and the latest vocabulary for internet and cell phone use. Check it out!

Dates and Info you should know about Budget meetings

2010-01-26T12:12:00.003-05:00

Tuesday, January 26th at 6:30pm in the HS library is a special meeting of the Regional School Committee

Wednesday, January 27th at 7pm in the HS library is a HS/MS Budget meeting for parents, guardians and the community

Tuesday, February 2nd at 6:30pm in the Town Room at Town Hall the School Committee takes community input about the budget

Monday, Feb 8th at 6:30 in the Town Room at Town Hall the Amherst School Committee meeting

Tuesday, February 9th at 6:30pm in the Town Room at Town Hall the Regional School Committee meeting

Wednesday, February 10th at 7pm in the HS library the School Committee and the Budget Advisory Committee is sponsoring a Community Public Budget Forum

Nordic Ski Program

2010-01-26T11:55:00.002-05:00

The Amherst Regional Nordic SKI Team presents:

Wednesday Afternoon

Sprint Series Races

Wednesday Afternoons in January and February

(snow permitting)

at Northfield Mountain Recreation Center

All are welcome!

Juniors, Seniors and Masters

On Site Registration takes place the day of the race at 3pm

Races begin at 3:30 pm sharp

Entry fee is $5 ($3 with a Northfield Mountain season pass)

ABOUT THE RACES: The Sprint Series will be a wave start format. The best

two advance. Consolation round(s) will be run for all others. Skiing technique will

alternate with Classic skiing on the first and third Wednesdays and Freestyle on the

second and fourth Wednesdays.

For advance registration visit http://nordicsprint.eventbrite.com/

(you will have to pay and pick up your number on the day of the race)

For race questions call Sully: (413) 259-1521 (before 9:00 p.m.)

For snow conditions call Northfield Mountain at (800) 859-2960

or visit www.firstlightpower.com/northfield/ccski.asp

Norhthfield Mountain Address: 99 Millers Falls Rd., Northfield, MA

NOT A SCHOOL SPONSORED EVENT

Support Amherst Athletics- Monte Carlo Night March 13th

2010-01-26T11:38:00.002-05:00

Support Athletics in Amherst - Monte Carlo Night - March 13!

As you probably know, the athletics budget at the regional level is being cut yet again, and the likelihood is that in the coming years, the only funding for athletics will be for the Athletic Director's salary.

This means all coaches and equipment must be paid for through fund raising efforts.

You may think this does not pertain to you at the elementary level, but your children will soon be in middle and high school, and without support, sports teams may be cut before your child can take advantage of the opportunity.

So...

Get your tickets now for MONTE CARLO NIGHT! Saturday, March 13, at Valentine Hall on the Amherst College Campus. This adults only event is a fabulous chance to get out of the house, see your friends, gamble (with funny money), dance, and more. You are not required to dress formally, although some people do take the opportunity to put on the black tie and gown!

To find out more, and get your tickets, just click here.

Coffee for new Wildwood families

2010-01-15T13:49:00.001-05:00

The Wildwood PTO invites all parents/guardians of children attending Wildwood next year (2010-2011) to meet at Rao's Coffee from 8:30-9:30 am on Wednesday January 20th. Buy your own coffee and meet some new friends. We want to start the dialogue going on ways to help all the kids & families transition to their new environment next year, whether that means a different building and/or different faces in the classroom. This event is purely social, there will be no formal agenda.

Redistricting Informational Meetings Scheduled

2009-12-17T11:35:00.000-05:00

WHAT? A MEETING ABOUT REDISTRICTING AND NEXT STEPS

ABOUT? TO SHARE OUR PLAN TO SUPPORT STUDENTS/ FAMILIES AND ANSWER QUESTIONS

WHERE? YOUR CHILD’S CURRENT ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

DATES? December 7, 2009 – Wildwood
December 14, 2009 – Crocker Farm
December 17, 2009 – Mark’s Meadow
December 21, 2009 – Fort River

TIME? ALL MEETINGS WILL BE FROM 7:00-8:30 p.m.

Thinking about holiday gifts? Here are two great ideas.

2009-12-16T09:54:00.004-05:00

Thinking about holiday gifts? Here are two great ideas.

AMHERSTOPOLY: The Elementary School PGO's have sent order forms home to all the Amherst Schools. Please order your Amherstopoly Game by December 18th to receive your copy before school lets out. See attached order form. Or email Tracy Hightower at tracy@waterfieldfarms.net. Games will be sold at both the Mark's Meadow Concert today at 2 PM and at 7:30 PM Wednesday Night.

AMHERST EDUCATION FOUNDATION: Three Cheers for our Teachers and Staff.
You can honor a teacher or staff member AND strengthen our schools with a gift to Amherst Education Foundation (AEF). We will deliver a personalized Thank You card to the person you wish to honor during the last week
of school in December, and your contribution will be used for grants to schools next year.

Gifts must be received by December 18 to guarantee delivery on December 21. Your gift to AEF will convey an important message of support to our teachers and staff members.

See attached Three Cheers Contribution Form
Thanks to our many generous donors AEF Amherst Education Foundation, Inc.
granted almost $40,000 for projects supporting students this year in areas like:
* Restoring after school clubs at ARHS
* Professional development at ARMS, Crocker Farm and Wildwood
* Library books for Pelham Elementary School
* Support for a new enrichment program at Fort River
* Math and reading materials at Marks Meadow

Internet Safety for Children

2009-12-09T15:06:00.002-05:00

INTERNET SAFETY for our Children

WHERE: Marks Meadow auditorium

WHEN: January 7, 6:30 PM

Cindy Boyle, a community educator from the Northwest DA’s office, will be at our schools to facilitate a session with our 5^th and 6^th graders on Internet Safety. She will hold an evening session for parents of all elementary students on January 7th at 6:30 in the Mark’s Meadow auditorium. Her focus with our students will be Internet safety and cyberbullying.

Cindy is a former Pittsfield police officer and a victim’s assistance advocate for Berkshire County. She is currently the Director of Community Education and Outreach at Northwestern District Attorney’s Office. Northampton, Massachusetts. Her primary responsibility is providing training to local elementary, middle, and high schools, community agencies, faith based organizations, and law enforcement agencies. Trainings topics include but are not limited to: internet safety, bullying/cyberbullying, suicide prevention and prevention of child sexual abuse. Additional duties include chairing the District Attorney’s Youth Advisory Board, cultivating and coordinating relationships with community partners, and assisting in all aspects of planning and presenting conferences.

Please come join us for this informative evening. There will time for questions

and answers.

Amherst 250th Gala

2009-11-30T17:41:00.000-05:00

Amherst Youth Basketball

2009-11-30T17:32:00.004-05:00

Amherst Youth Basketball (AYBL)
Games begin Saturday January 9, 2010

It’s not too LATE...
Teams are being formed!!!

Coed League - $99
Grades K-2 Instructional Division (Players in this division practice but play no formal games)
Practices will be held at Fort River and Wildwood on Saturdays or Sundays.

Boys’ Divisions - $129
Grades 3 & 4 Sundays - Wildwood/Hadley Elementary
Grades 5 & 6 Saturdays - Middle School/Hadley Elementary
Grades 7 & 8 Saturdays - Middle School
Grades 9 - 12 Saturdays - High School

Girls’ Divisions - $129
Grades 3 & 4 Sundays - Wildwood/Hadley Elementary
Grades 5 & 6 Saturdays - Middle School/Hadley Elementary
Grades 7 & 8 Saturdays - Middle School
Grades 9 - 12 Saturdays - Middle School

Fee Reductions Available
up to 75%

To register, call Amherst Leisure Services at 259-3065, visit lsse.org,
or stop by our office in the Bangs Community Center.
Amherst Youth Basketball (AYBL)
*Not a school sponsored event.

More H1N1 Vaccination Clinics

2009-11-30T12:06:00.000-05:00

H1N1 Flu Vaccination Clinics

University Health Services and the Town of Amherst are hosting walk-in H1N1 flu vaccination clinics Wednesday, Dec. 2, noon - 6 p.m. at the UMass Campus Center Auditorium; and Saturday, Dec. 12, 11 a.m. - 2 p.m.

at the Bangs Community Center, 70 Boltwood Walk, Amherst. Clinics are open to ages 6 months - 65, while supplies last. There is no cost to you

for vaccination.

To save time, follow these steps:

Download the registration form and vaccine information from from

www.umass.edu/uhs or www.amherstma.gov.

Photocopy both sides of your insurance card.

Bring the completed form, your insurance card and card copies to the clinic.

Forms and information will also be available at the door.

The Centers for Disease Control and the Massachusetts Department of Public Health recommend vaccination for everyone in the target groups, including those who have had a recent flu-like illness. However, anyone who is currently ill and has a fever cannot be vaccinated.

Maintaining excellent schools meeting

2009-11-18T09:59:00.002-05:00

Please attend an organizational meeting to harness parent energy in addressing the current Amherst/Amherst Regional budget crisis.

When: Wednesday, November 18, 2009, 7 p.m.

Where: At MJ Viederman's home, 150 Blackberry Lane, Amherst. Long driveway at the end of the street -- park at the circle and walk into the long driveway, or drive in and park along the left side of the roadway.

Who: Everyone interested in maintaining excellent schools in our community.

Why: The budget situation this year has the potential of making all of our schools unrecognizable. If we work together to utilize the wealth of skill, creativity, and knowledge as a community, then we can build a cooperative plan for all students to continue to excel.

Bring: A smile, your calendar, and all of your ideas.

Enthusiastically supported by the ARMS FSP
Amherst Regional Middle School Family School Partnership

H1N1 vaccinations

2009-11-09T19:57:00.001-05:00

At the Select Board meeting tonight the town announced that there will be H1N1 vaccinations offered at the Middle School on Wednesday 11/11 9am-1pm for children under age 17 or pregnant woman or those caring for infants under 6 months.

Submitted by Town Meeting member Clare Bertrand

Amherst 250th Parade DVDs for sale

2009-11-06T20:48:00.002-05:00

DVDs of Amherst's 250th Parade on September 27th are now available for $10. Full coverage of the event includes the group who marched for Amherst Elementary Schools. Produced by ACTV, these DVDs make a great souvenir of the event!
Contact Catherine Stryker on 413 695 7124 to place your order.

And

A DVD produced by the 250th Celebration Committee is on sale. It is a 90 minute video with all marching units in the parade and footage of the Clydesdales in downtown shot earlier in the week. A tremendous souvenir of the 250th parade. Parade was filmed by Patrick Serio a professional videographer from neighboring Hadley. for more information click on this site. http://www.amherst250.org/index.php?id=65

Mt Holyoke Study

2009-11-06T20:47:00.000-05:00

Professor Francine Deutsch from Mount Holyoke College is conducting a study on how parents balance housework and childcare. We are particularly looking for families where both spouses work at least 20 hours/week for pay, are native speakers, and where the fathers share the load of household chores and parenting tasks. Participating couples will each take part in a 15-minute phone interview with a student research assistant at their convenient time.
If you are interested in our study, please contact Fong at ta20p@mtholyoke.edu, or 413-230-6793.
Thank you so much for your time and consideration!

Free Family Event

2009-11-04T07:45:00.000-05:00

Dear Teachers and Parents,

We are looking forward to seeing your students next Tuesday for the Cirque Mechanics performance of A Birdhouse Factory. In anticipation of this event the Fine Arts Center is hosting a FREE family circus day on Sunday, November 8^th from 2pm – 4:30pm in the Fine Arts Center Concert Hall lobby. If you have e-lists for parents or other appropriate means of contacting families we would appreciate your sharing this information. Hope to see you there!

Want to Run Away and Join the Circus!?
Join us for Wunderle's Big Top Workshop

Sunday, November 8, 2:00 – 4:30 PM, Concert Hall Lobby, free and open to all ages!

An interactive circus adventure appropriate for a wide range of skill levels and ages. Participants can partake in the entire workshop or leave at any point. Equipment to be taught may include, but is not limited to: juggling scarves, balls, rings, and clubs, spinning plates, devil sticks, diablos, feathers, hula hoops, and jump ropes. Plus, human stunts such as clowning and entertaining tricks for all will be taught. A former international performer with the Ringling Brothers and Barnum & Bailey Circus, Troy Wunderle is the founder of Wunderle's Big Top Circus and is the Big Top Tour Director of Circus Smirkus in Vermont.

Wunderle's Big Top Workshop is presented in anticipation of the appearance of Cirque Mechanics in Birdhouse Factory: an extraordinary troupe of Cirque du Soleil, Pickle Family Circus, and Moscow Circus veterans who transform the mundane into the magnificent. Cirque Mechanics will perform at the Fine Arts Center Concert Hall on Tuesday, November 10 at 7:30 PM and a sold-out school performance that morning at 10am.

For more information on Wunderle's Big Top Workshop, see www.bigtopadventures.com. Information and tickets for the November 10 evening performance by Cirque Mechanics are available at the Fine Arts Center website.

Halina Kusleika
Assistant Director of Programming, Fine Arts Center
15 Curry Hicks
University of Massachusetts Amherst
100 Hicks Way
Amherst, MA 01003-9267
ph. 413.545.4157
fax 413.545.0132
www.fineartscenter.com

Stop and Shop, Big Y and More....

2009-11-02T17:16:00.000-05:00

This is an easy way to raise funds for our school and it doesn’t cost you anything except for a few minutes of your time to sign up at the places that you shop. If you have friends or family members that shop at Stop and Shop, Big Y, Target, Atkins, and A 2 Z. Let them know they can designate Mark’s Meadow Elementary School to benefit from their purchases. As the holidays approach please look at these store for your purchases.

Last year and this school year-to-date our families that have enrolled in Big Y’s Education Express program have earned a total of more than 450,000 Education Express Points for Mark’s Meadow. These points will be redeemed to purchase school equipment from the Big Y Education Express catalog. In the past we have purchased a drum set for the Music department. So this program really helps us in keeping our programs full of fun and enriching. It is necessary to enroll your card every year. If you have not re-enrolled your Big Y card for this school year please take the time to do so. You can do this by going online to http://www.bigy.com/education/edexp_sign_up.php, or simply stop by Big Y customer service next time you are in the store.

This school year 46 families and staff members have re-enrolled in Stop & Shop’s A + education reward program. Last year we had 98 families signed up and earned over $1000 for the PGG. It is necessary to enroll your card every year. If you have not re-enrolled your Stop & Shop card yet, you can do this by going online to http://www.stopandshop.com/aplus or simply stop by Stop & Shop customer service next time you are in the store. Our school number is 05187.

We currently have only 13 families enrolled in Target’s Red Card Program: Take Charge of Education. Last year we earned $375 from Target. Our school ID # is 58646.Sign up now. https://sites.target.com/site/en/corporate/page.jsp?contentId=PRD03-005174.

Don’t forget to mention Mark’s Meadow at A 2 Z. We earned over $135 in gift certificates last year. These gift certificates were used as prizes at community events last year.

Atkins is also offering education rewards as well. Please use your cards that were given out last year when shopping at Atkins we have the opportunity to earn as much as $500. If you don’t have an Atkins card please send and email to marksmeadow@gmail.com to request one.

You and your family members will be relieved and glad to sign up for these programs when they find out they don’t have to buy wrapping paper to raise money for our school.

AMHERSTOPOLY ORDER FORM

2009-11-02T17:03:00.001-05:00

AEF Trivia Bee Raises $6150 For Our Schools!

2009-11-02T16:58:00.003-05:00

The Amherst Regional Middle School auditorium was "abuzz" with contestants and spectators at the Amherst Education Foundation's 15th Annual Trivia Bee on Thursday, October 29. 120 contestants, many in costumes, competed for bragging rights to the title of Amherst area trivia champion. Hosted by AEF President Katie Allan Zobel and emceed by State Representative Ellen Story, the evening of challenge, wit and fun netted a record $6,150.00 for the benefit of Amherst, Pelham, Leverett and Shutesbury schools.

While area schools are the big winners from the event, bragging rights belong to the team of bee champion Jones Group Realtors, comprised of Doug Albertson, Tim McGee, Maureen Porter and Micki Sanderson, who won an exciting sudden death playoff against competitors New England Finishing and the Amherst College Center for Community Engagement. Winning prizes for best costume were the teams from Atkinson Family Practice (Slum"doc" Millionaires), Attorney David Noonan (the Harry Potters) and Minuteman Pest Control (the H1N1 Swine Patrol.) Awards for best team spirit went to the Amherst Club, New England Greenscape and the Amherst College Center for Community Engagement. The audience contest, themed Amherst 250th, offered a unique glimpse into Amherst 's past and was won by Jackie Churchill.

The trivia bee marks AEF's first fundraising event since the organization completed its strategic plan last year, and launches what promises to be a new era in AEF history. AEF's mission is to provide significant and consistent support for area teachers and students by awarding grants, funding district-wide projects, and encouraging teacher innovation and academic excellence.

The event was underwritten by Northampton Cooperative Bank and made possible by the local businesses who provided sponsorships for the teams, donated prizes and/or helped with publicity. The Amherst Education Foundation is profoundly grateful to these businesses for their support, and is already looking forward to another successful Trivia Bee in 2010. For more information, or to make a tax-deductible gift to the schools via AEF, please visit our website at www.amhersteducationfoundation.org.

LSSE Opportunity For Fun On Veterans Day

2009-10-30T09:58:00.003-04:00

Some of you may already be aware, but through the school year, the Amherst Leisure Services and Supplemental Education Department (LSSE) is offering bigger fee reductions for qualifying Amherst families. We are also expanding the income level guidelines to include families that may not have qualified earlier (you would be surprised how many families now qualify). Under new procedures, LSSE is now offering 75%, 50% or 25% fee reduction for youth programs based on new, less restrictive guidelines for families. Subsidies will apply to LSSE youth sports programs, day camps, the after school program, aquatics, education, recreation classes and more.

How did these beneficial changes come about? For years the Town of Amherst has offered fee reduction support for LSSE programs, but in the recent difficult budget year the tax support has been reduced. Fortunately, thanks to a new Community Development Block Grant and additional fundraising, support from organizations and individual donors, we have been able to move forward on this program.

We understand that in this tough economy many families are struggling. It is our hope that the deeper discounts will help make a difference so that your students may participate. To find out if a family that you are servicing qualifies, please have them review and complete the attached guidelines. Provisions of our grant require more proof of eligibility and you will find a longer subsidy application. We are happy to help families in completing the forms. If they need assistance, please have them call an LSSE registration staff member at 259-3065 or stop by our office.

Submitted by LSSE

UMass host a Forum of Senatorial Candidates

2009-10-30T09:55:00.001-04:00

This may be of interested to some parents:

A forum for candidates running for the U.S. Senate seat left vacant by the death of Edward M. Kennedy will be held at the University of Massachusetts Amherst on Sunday, Nov. 8 at 7:30 p.m. in Bowker Auditorium. The forum is sponsored by the League of Women Voters of Massachusetts and public radio stations WFCR and WNNZ. It is free and open to the public.

An opportunity to register to vote will be available beginning at 6:30 p.m. at Bowker Auditorium. Parking for the forum is available in the Campus Center Parking Garage, which is adjacent to Bowker Auditorium, located in Stockbridge Hall.

For more information call 617-523-2999.

FAMILY FUN! BUZZ ON OVER.

2009-10-21T17:18:00.001-04:00

The AEF 15th Annual Trivia Bee Thursday, Oct. 29

It's the AEF 15th Annual Trivia Bee

The Amherst “not to miss” event of the year!

Thursday October 29th at 7:00 p.m.
Amherst Middle School Auditorium

Join us for trivia, laughs, costumes, refreshments and raffles.
Admission is free with donations to AEF welcome.

See our website for details: http://amhersteducationfoundation.org/
or contact Mary Donoghue at 253-7016 Aj.donoghue@verizon.net.All proceeds benefit the public schools of Amherst, Pelham, Leverett and Shutesbury

Underwriting generously provided by Northampton Cooperative Bank

Public Forum for Redistricting and background information.

2009-10-06T12:59:00.015-04:00

Pancake Breakfast

2009-10-05T17:19:00.002-04:00

Pancake Breakfast

Sponsored by
Amherst Fire S.A.F.E. Program
Student Awareness of Fire Education
Sunday, October 18th
7:30-11:30AM
North Fire Station
603 East Pleasant St.

Pancakes w/real maple syrup, sausage, juice, milk, coffee, tea
Donations to benefit S.A.F.E. Adults $6, Child $4
Entertainment: The Horse Mountain Jazz Band

Fun family 5K Run or Walk for a great cause!

2009-09-26T09:08:00.000-04:00

Fun family 5K Run or Walk for a great cause!

Join us at the Fit Together 5K on Sunday, October 4^th. This event celebrates each person’s ability to be healthy regardless of fitness level or mental, physical, or intellectual challenges. All proceeds from this family-friendly event will support Fit Together, a unique wellness center in Hadley where people with emotional, cognitive, and physical disabilities transform their lives through exercise and good nutrition.

Every participant will get a free t-shirt and a $7 gift certificate to Bueno y Sano. Great prizes including restaurant gift certificates, gym memberships and massages will be raffled. The race starts on the Hadley Town Common at 10:00 a.m., rain or shine, with day-of registration beginning at 9:00.

Family rate and scholarships available. For more information, please go to: www.fit-together.org or call 584-1508

APPLE HARVEST FESTIVAL

2009-09-24T10:05:00.003-04:00

2009-09-21T20:50:00.003-04:00

Amherst A Better Chance
38th Annual Fall Foliage Walk
Oct 17, 2009
9AM Registration on Amherst Town Common
10:30 Walk begins
11:45-1:45 Barbecue and Activities
For more information call (413)687-3383
or visit www.amherstabetterchance.org

Mark's Meadow Open House

2009-09-21T17:38:00.002-04:00

Hi everyone!!!

Just a reminder that Mark's Meadow will have Open House the Wednesday night from 6-8. Please remember to bring your Stop & Shop and Big Y cards so we can sign you up for the year!!

Also make sure you check the classroom directories in each class. We want to make sure there are no mistakes so we can get them out to you very quickly.

Amherst's 250th Anniversary Parade: We need your help!!!

2009-09-18T21:15:00.003-04:00

Amherst Education Foundation 15th Annual Trivia Bee

2009-09-18T11:55:00.004-04:00

CREATE A TEAM AND JOIN THE FUN

Each year, community members gather to show how many trivial details they have kept in their brains, on a variety of topics! It's that time of year, yet again.

The Amherst Education Foundation is busy working to organize our Annual Trivia Bee fundraiser. We invite you to sponsor a team. A donation to sponsor a team is only $175.00 which assists us in funding grants that directly benefit the students in the Amherst, Leverett, Pelham, and Shutesbury schools.

The AEF’s mission is to support our public schools in providing a challenging and enriching educational experience that maximizes the learning potential of every student and prepares them to succeed in the 21^st century.

We can provide you with a copy of the Trivia Bee rules if you are interested in sponsoring a team from your business or we have a number of individuals who would be happy to have you sponsor them. A number of the teachers and local trivia buffs love to compete in the contest and your sponsorship makes all the difference.

We look forward to having you and your team join us on Thursday, October 29^th, 2009 at 7:00 PM at the Amherst Middle School auditorium for a fun night of trivia, prizes, and refreshments! All payments are due by October 1^st, 2009 and can be mailed to:

Amherst Education Foundation, Inc.
P.O. Box 2237
Amherst, MA 01004

If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact Becky Demling at 413-230-3306 or beckydemling@yahoo.com. You can also use the above handy document to enter right away.

Wednesday Sept 16, 2009 Whole Foods 5% to Farm to School

2009-09-16T09:46:00.002-04:00

Dear Friend,

If you sometimes shop at Whole Foods in Hadley, please consider shopping there Wednesday Sept. 16. The store will be donating 5% of the day's sales to the Mass. Farm to School Project, to help support Mass. Harvest for Students Week this month. Thanks so much to Anne Walsh-Sullivan at Whole Foods for making this generous gesture!

We've come a long way: 205 public school districts in Mass. reported they preferentially purchased locally grown foods for their student meals during the last school year, and more than 60 local farms sold directly to schools and colleges. But we still have plenty of work to do, including getting the Amherst schools on board. It seems like Amherst is sliding backwards as many other districts are moving ahead.

The Amherst school food service director reports she isn't preferentially serving local foods anymore and "can't" buy from local farmers, only approved vendors. We're doing worse now than when Chartwells was buying token amounts from Czajkowski Farm in Hadley. Atkins Farm has indicated they would like to sell peaches, pears, apples from their orchards to the school district and they've been told it's not possible, because they're not approved vendors. I don't think the current superintendent is aware of previous efforts to improve the school meals by using fresh locally grown items.

We've not yet raised all the funds we need to meet this year's budget, so any help you can offer is much appreciated!

Thanks,

Kelly Erwin, former WW parent

http://www.mass.gov/agr/markets/Farm_to_school/

Interview with Dr. Alberto Rodriguez

2009-09-11T15:57:00.001-04:00

Clare Bertrand, Crocker Farm parent and member of the Crocker Farm PGO, has shared a questionnaire filled out by our new school superintendent. We have posted it here for your information.

SPOTLIGHT on our new Superintendent: Alberto Rodriguez

What you want us to call you:

Alberto or Dr. Rodriguez
Where did you graduate high school?

Coral Gables Senior High School, Coral Gables, Florida
Best memory from high school:

My friends
What was your favorite subject in school?

History
Tell us about your family:

I have been married to my best friend, Maria, for over 23 years and we have two daughters, Madison and Danielle. They are 20 and 19 years old, respectively, and are both in college.
What are you reading right now?

Primal Teen. It tells us a lot about the adolescent brain and how it works. It explains a great deal about why adolescents do the things they do.
And what would you recommend to read?

Millennials Rising: The Next Generation by Neil Howe, William Strauss and R.J. Matson. This gives educators and the general lay public an insight into this transformational generation.
What is your favorite movie?

I have many, but I’ll name a few: The Godfather (I), Jaws (I), and One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest
What do you consider comfort food?

Italian food
What is one thing you miss from your home in Florida?

My family, friends and house
How would you describe your leadership style?

There are several aspects of it: Facilitative, Distributive, and Delegative
What is one thing that really sets you off?

When adults lie.
What is one thing that you really love about education?

When a child’s life is turned around because of an outstanding teacher or a successful program.
If you were the US Education Czar, what big idea would you introduce?

It’s not a big idea—just replicate and fully-fund programs and initiatives that work and discontinue those that don’t work. Additionally, fully-fund early childhood education to the extent that all children have access to quality Pre-K.
How do you relax?

Reading, traveling and spending time with my family
Do you have a favorite sport?

Baseball
Do you have a guilty pleasure?

Eating food that I shouldn’t eat.
What surprises you the most about Amherst so far?

How such a liberal community can be so resistant to change.
If we want to talk with you, what is the best way?

Through my fantastic assistant, Debbie Westmoreland. westmorelandD@arps.org

Tonight! Join the fun & help paint our parade banner!

2009-09-09T09:55:00.003-04:00

Wondering about the Amherst 250th Parade on Sunday September 27, 2009 at 1:00 pm? Yes, you can be part of it!

Thanks to parent Becky Demling from Crocker Farm, families from Crocker Farm, Fort River, Mark’s Meadow and Wildwood schools are helping organize a walking float to celebrate the impact the town Libraries have on all children’s lives!

Tonight (Wednesday Sept 9) at the Back to School Potluck please plan to help paint our Mark's Meadow banner! And find out more how you can march for Mark's Meadow! The parade will be filmed so you'll be a part of Amherst history!

See Alisa Brewer tonight at the potluck for more info!

Back to School Potluck

2009-09-08T08:59:00.002-04:00

Hi everyone!!! It's that time of year again! All the kids are back to school and it is time to come together and celebrate!! We will be having our Back to School Potluck Wednesday Sept. 9 from 5:30-7PM. As a suggestion, we are asking families of students from different grade levels to bring certain kinds of dishes so we have plenty to share:
K-2 Appetizers
2-4 Main dish
5-6 Dessert

If you have children in more than one grade, please bring what you can. The PGG will provide drinks and paper goods. Also, if you could come a little early to help set-up or stay late to clean up, that would be most appreciated!!!

Thanks everyone and WELCOME BACK!!!

School Parent Organizations

2009-07-03T17:47:00.000-04:00

Amherst Regional High School
http://www.arhsparentcenter.org/

Amherst Regional Middle School
http://www.armspartnership.org/

Crocker Farm Elementary School
http://crockerfarmpgo.blogspot.com/

Fort River Elementary School (School Council)
http://ftriver.blogspot.com/

Mark's Meadow Elementary School
http://www.marksmeadow.blogspot.com/

Pelham Elementary School
http://www.arps.org/pe/parentcouncil.htm

Wildwood Elementary School
http://www.wildwoodpto.org/

PGG Updates

2009-06-12T07:00:00.004-04:00

TONIGHT is the End-of-the-Year-Celebration on the Mark's Meadow Playground.
June 17th 5:30 to 7:30.
THE DUNKING MACHINE IS OUT AND READY TO DUNK.

It looks to be good weather!

BRING YOUR OWN PICNIC DINNER, a BLANKET, TOWELS and DESSERTS to SHARE. (PGG is providing drinks and paper goods.) ALL children must be accompanied by an adult.
ALSO: Bring your check book or some cash.
AMHERSTOPOLY will be on sale for $25. There are 600 copies left in town. GIVE a historical copy as a graduation gift, a goodbye gift or buy one for family fun.
YEARBOOKS will be available for all Students. Suggested donation $3.00
RAFFLE TICKETS for The Graceful Walkers Relay Team Winners will be announced on June 20th at the RELAY FOR LIFE. (see below).

We will also have out all the DISHES LEFT BEHIND from school events this year. Anything left after the picnic will be given to Amherst Survival Center.
------------------------------

---------------------------------------------
REMINDERS:
6th grade graduation is June 19th. If you have FLOWERS you would like to contribute. Let us know! Flowers can be dropped off after school on Thursday June 18th or before 8:30 AM on Friday June 19th .

Field Day is tomorrow, June 18th 1 PM. Have your children be ready to participate in this fun day.

A Simple Thank You: An opportunity to give a gift to Amherst Education Foundation to thank a teacher CLICK HERE for a direct online link to donate.

Graceful Walkers Relay Team
Lisa, Anita and Joan in the Mark's Meadow School office belong to the Graceful Walkers Relay Team and are one of the teams representing the American Cancer Society RELAY FOR LIFE. The Relay is being held at Look Park in Northampton on June 19th and 20th. We are taking donations to help raise money for cancer research, education, and advocacy. All money raised will be turned in at the Relay. Or donate online. CLICK HERE Graceful Walkers

2009-06-09T06:46:00.002-04:00

A Simple Thank You: Give a gift to AEF to thank a teacher CLICK HERE for a direct online link to donate.

RECYCLING: Please come help on Saturday morning 6/13 from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM in Mark's Meadow Auditorium.
How you can help:

Come for an hour or two to sort and package Cartridges for shipment.
Take finished Boxes to the UPS or Fedex store.
Bring your Cartridges in that morning or the day before.
We also need plastic shopping bags to wrap the cartridges in for shipping.

AMHERSTOPOLY Please bring your forms in before June 15th. and pick your game up at these events.

Third Grade play June 9th
End-of-the-year Celebration Potluck June 17th
Graduation Brunch June 19th

Graceful Walkers Relay Team
Lisa, Anita and Joan in the Mark's Meadow School office belong to the Graceful Walkers Relay Team and are one of the teams representing the American Cancer Society RELAY FOR LIFE. The Relay is being held at Look Park in Northampton on June 19th and 20th. We are taking donations to help raise money for cancer research, education, and advocacy. There is a can in the school office if you can make a donation. All money raised will be turned in at the Relay. Or donate online. Graceful Walkers

Dishes, Dishes, Dishes. Please get your Dishes that have been left from the events of the year. They will be given to the Amherst Survival Center at the end of the school year.

PGG Update and an Opportunity for Kids

2009-05-29T06:29:00.004-04:00

Staff Appreciation Luncheon: Wednesday, June 3, 2009 @ Immanuel Lutheran Church (867 N. Pleasant St.)
Food Drop-off: Drop-off a food item/dish at the church between 8:30 AM and 1:00 PM. For those who cannot drop-off during this time, please advise and Koren Berrio can arrange pick up or alternative. If you would like to drop off your food at the MM Office the day before the event, please let Koren know (email: korenberrio71@hotmail.com, mobile: 413-687-3475). Thank you!

Thank you to all the parents who have purchased an AMHERSTOPOLY Game. The Four Elementary Schools have sold nearly 400 of the 1000 games so far and to date we have earned $2000 for our school with another $5000 to come. So order your game now while they last. Attached to the memo is your order form and dates and times you can pick up your copy. Orders can be placed between June 1st and June 15th to get one this year. See order form HERE.

Thank you to Amherst Education Foundation and to all the parents who contributed money to AEF this year. On May 21st, at a reception held at Wunderarts Gallery, Mark's Meadow received a donation from AEF along with the other three Amherst Elementary schools and Pelham of $10000. Mark's meadow intends to use their share for after school clubs and enrichment programs next year. You will also see a flier in the kid's backpacks today, which will allow you to Thank a Teacher by giving a year end gift via AEF.

Thank You to all the staff and families who signed up for Stop and shop A+ Bonus Bucks Program this year. The program has concluded and we earned nearly $1100. That is $350 dollars more than last year! Please make sure you sign up again in September.

Thank You to Ted, Christine Gray-Mullen, Jocelyn Cuffee, and Lynne Weintraub for helping with shipping and collecting of Ink and Laser Cartridges this month. We will be recycling again on Saturday June 13th. Please join us!

Our End-of-the-year Celebration Potluck will be held on June 17th (June 18th rain date) from 5:30 to 7:30. Please come bring your favorite dish and dunk Nick in the dunking machine. Our yearbook is in the works and will be available at this event. If you can help with set up, clean up or buying drinks (PGG supplies the funding for this.) Please let us know. Marksmeadow@gmail.com

Our last PGG meeting of the year will be held Monday June 1st from 6:30 to 8:00 PM. Please come and see what we have accomplished this year as we recap 2008-2009. We are also still looking for a New Co-chair for next year to work with the fantastic Meg Rosa. Let us know if you are interested. I can truly say it is rewarding and fun to give to our kids and our staff in this way!

Sincerely, your outgoing Co-Chair, Tracy Hightower

FUN FOR KIDS

Sugarloaf Youth Track League

Sponsored by the Sugarloaf Mountain Athletic Club and the Town of

Amherst Leisure Services

Come be a part of Amherst's youth track and field league. The first meet is Sunday May 31 at the ARHS track. Bring a picnic and make it a family night at the track!

It's not too late to sign up! We will take additional athletes at any time. Below is a link for the entry form, just print it out and bring it with you on Sunday.

http://sugarloafmac.org/regforms/smac_amherst.pdf

Who: Boys and Girls currently in grades 1-8

Fee: $42/person by 5/8; $52 after 5/8 --- A $10 non-resident fee will be

added to any participant who is not an Amherst resident.

Location: Amherst Regional High School Track

Dates: Team Assignment Night is Thursday, May 28, 5:15 p.m. Arrive on

team night to meet your teammates and coaches and run an informal series

of practice races and relays.

Meets: Sundays, May 31, June 7, 14, 21, 28 (awards night)

(Make-up date: June 25)

Time: 5:15-8:15 p.m.

Diversity Committee Meeting reminder

2009-05-18T20:22:00.001-04:00

Diversity Committee Meeting on May 20th at 6:00 in our principal, Nick Yaffe's office. We will be welcoming Allan Goodman from Hampshire college to discuss last month's showing of Race: The Power of Illusion and ask him to share his thoughts about diversity at our school.

All are invited. Childcare is provided for children 4 and older!

Travel soccer try- outs are coming soon!!

2009-05-18T20:18:00.000-04:00

Does your child want to play travel soccer for Amherst in the next school year? If so, you need to preregister your child by May 30th for the tryouts which are held in June.

There are boys teams and girls teams for rising 3rd, 4th, 5th, and 6th graders.

Tryouts for the Amherst Travel Soccer teams will be held between May 31 and June 17.

Mandatory pre-registration forms are due May 30th.

The pre-registration forms, the tryout schedule, and more detailed information about Amherst Travel Soccer can be found on the Amherst Youth Soccer Association website http://www.amherstsoccer.org/

Amherstopoly order form.

2009-05-02T07:49:00.006-04:00

Please hand in your order form to your class room teacher Tracy Hightower will get you your game.

Fun things to do May 2nd and 3rd

2009-05-02T06:58:00.007-04:00

Something Fun For this weekend: May 2nd and 3rd

SOCCER FEST AT RUDD FIELD UMASS: Friday, Saturday, and Sunday Look at what fun there is for FANS. CLICK HERE

League of Women Voters Book Sale: For more information CLICK HERE

18TH ANNUAL AMHERST ULTIMATE INVITATIONAL TOURNAMENT
May 2-3, 2009 Amherst, Massachusetts.

The 18th Annual Amherst Ultimate Invitational Tournament will be hosted by Amherst Regional High School (ARHS) and will take place on Saturday and Sunday May 2-3, 2009. The Tournament will be held at the Ultimate fields at ARHS and Hampshire College in Amherst, Massachusetts.

Thirty high school teams from New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Vermont, Connecticut, and Massachusetts will compete in one of the largest and most prestigious Ultimate tournaments in the country. Last year’s champions, Columbia High School (New Jersey) and Andover High School (Massachusetts) will return to defend their titles. The ARHS Boys team enters the tournament with a 15-1 record.

On Saturday, games will be played from 9:45am to 5pm at both venues; on Sunday, games will run from 8am to 4:30pm at ARHS. The Tournament will once again be divided into three groups: Girls, and Boys A & B Divisions. The Girls Division and Boys B Division finals will be played Sunday at 1:15pm in Amherst.

The Boys Division A final will be played Sunday at 3pm in Amherst.
Combining the non-stop movement and athletic endurance of soccer with the aerial passing skills of football, a game of Ultimate is played by two seven-player squads with a high-tech plastic disc on a field similar to football.

Amherst is steeped in the history of Ultimate, acknowledged to be to be the birthplace of the sport by an Amherst College student in 1967. Ultimate has grown precipitously over the following 40 years to over 4.9 million competitive Ultimate players around the world (2008). Amherst coaches Tiina Booth and Jim Pistrang formed some of the first competitive teams in the country in the 1970s.

ARHS last won the national Ultimate championship in 2004. Another entry in the tournament will be Columbia High School from new Jersey, which was the first high school Ultimate team ever founded.
For schedules, times, locations, and much more information on the tournament, see: http://www.amherstultimate.org/ai/2009

Public Forums Set Regarding Potential Redistricting of Amherst Public Schools

2009-04-26T13:15:00.001-04:00

Please Note: An informational document has been added to this announcement.

At their March 17th meeting, the Amherst School Committee made a motion to close Marks Meadow Elementary School at the end of the 2009-2010 school year and redistrict to create three elementary schools with proportionate numbers of children on free/reduced lunch for the start of the 2010-2011 school year. The following public meetings are scheduled to provide the community with opportunities to hear more about the educational and budgetary impact of redistricting, as well as to ask questions and provide feedback:

Monday, April 27 at 5:00 p.m.: Marks Meadow PGO/MM Community (MM auditorium)
Wednesday, April 29th at 12:00 Noon: Wildwood PGO/Wildwood Community (WW location TBA)
Wednesday, April 29th at 5:00 p.m.: Fort River PGO/FR Community (FR library)
Thursday, April 30th at 5:00 p.m.: Crocker Farm PGO/CF Community (CF library)
Tuesday, May 5th at 7:00 p.m.: Community-Wide Forum (Middle School auditorium)

The Amherst School Committee plans to take a vote on the redistricting motion at their regular meeting on Tuesday, May 19th.

To read the information to be presented, please click on the link below.

CommunityPresentationRE_CloseMM.pdf

League of Women Voters BOOK SALE!

2009-04-17T14:24:00.004-04:00

April 24 is the last day for donations of books for the 62^ndannual League of Women Voters of Amherst. The Book Sale which will take place on the Town Common on May 1, 2, and 3. Area residents are urged to look over their book shelves and contribute books to the LWV fund raiser.

The book sale is a great way of recycling books in the area. Last year nearly 40,00 books were received, providing a source of good books at bargain prices. Profits have supported publication of the Voter’s Guide for the recent local election and League publications such as the Town Meeting Hand Book, They Represent You, a listing of Town meeting members and elected officers, and the recently revised Your Amherst Government.

Books should be brought to the LWV sorting and pricing place at 479 West Street, #8 (corner of Pomeroy Ln.and West St.), the Hadley Stop & Shop, the Jones, Munson and North Amherst Libraries or the UPS Store at 6 University Drive .

For information, call 253 – 0633.

Teacher Appreciation

2009-04-17T13:56:00.008-04:00

Let your teacher know how much you appreciate all their hard work, care, expertise, and dedication!

Make a gift to the Amherst Education Foundation (AEF) in honor of a teacher, and AEF will deliver a shining star with note of appreciation to that teacher.

Your tax-deductible gift will go toward supporting important work in our schools next year.

Gifts must be received by April 30th in order for stars to be delivered on May 5, Teacher Appreciation Day.

www.amhersteducationfoundation.org

Click on image to print.

Parents Take Action for Elementary Schools

2009-04-13T14:13:00.005-04:00

Send a letter or email voicing your opinion to: schoolcommittee@arps.org
Kathleen Anderson: andersonk@arps.org
Andy Churchill: churchilla@arps.org
Irv Rhodes: rhodesi@arps.org
Steve Rivkin: rivkins@arps.org
Catherine Sanderson: sandersonc@arps.org
Amherst Town Manager, Larry Schaffer: shafferl@amherstma.gov
Amherst Assistant Manager anf Finance Director: musantej@amherstma.gov
Superintendent, Alberto Rodriguez: rodrigueza@arps.org
Assistant to Superintendent Debbie Westmorland: WestmorelandD@arps.org
Select Board: selectboard@Amherstma.gov
State Representative, Ellen Story : Rep.EllenStory@hou.state.ma.us
State Senator, Stan Rosenburg: Stan.Rosenberg@state.ma.us

Write a letter to the Editor:
The Gazette: opinion@gazettenet.com
Include name, telephone number and address on piece (only name will be printed), send by Monday 9am. 300 words or less.
The Bulletin: letters@amherstbulletin.com
Include name, telephone number and address (only name will be printed) In the Subject write: Letter to the editor, 400 words or less.

Let Governor Patrick know how you feel about the current funding situation. (http://www.mass.gov/?pageID=gov3utilities&sid=Agov3&U=Agov3_contact_us )

VOTE! VOTE! VOTE!

2009-03-30T16:54:00.002-04:00

Please don't forget that the Amherst Town Election is this Tuesday, March 31st. Three candidates are vying for the two open seats on the Amherst School Committee. Given the dire budget outlook for the schools, this election will prove to be very important for the future of our schools. PLEASE GET OUT AND VOTE !! Turnout is expected to be quite low, and candidates can win or lose by a few votes, so it is especially important for parents of kids in the schools to let their voices be heard!

Polls are open from 7am-8pm. Please click here for official town
information on polling locations and to see facsimile ballots.

Statements from the Candidates for School Committee:

IRV RHODES

The Amherst schools face a budget deficit that threatens the very mission of our school system. This year’s budget deficit is part of an overall structural budget deficit that has largely been ignored in past years. We must as a school system dedicate ourselves to eliminating this structural budget deficit so that the schools can have a period of fiscal stability for five years. In order to do this we must have a plan that does not rely upon just one thing to close the budget gap, but relies instead upon a systematic examination of all areas of the budget and a community engagement process in this examination. This examination must include closing of Marks Meadow School, reopening contracts with school employees, redistricting, moving the sixth grade to the middle school, health care costs, increasing revenue, special education costs and administrative costs. Once the examination is concluded a plan would be crafted so that it could be implemented in school year 2010-2011. The guiding principles of the plan would be equity, excellence, community engagement and fiscal stability for five years. We all must support a system that looks at what is right rather then who is right.

STEVEN RIVKIN

I have a daughter at Fort River and a son excited to join her at the school next year. I believe that my experience as an education economist and my active involvement in the Amherst Public Schools, including attendance at virtually every School Committee meeting during the past two years, provide me with the knowledge and skills to help our schools during these difficult economic times.

The School Committee must work to fulfill Amherst’s commitment to social justice by intellectually engaging and supporting every child every day. To do so, we must provide a strong voice and the necessary resources in support of disadvantaged children. We also must set high expectations for all students and our teachers and administrators. In order to provide the best possible education, it is essential that we maintain a strong commit-ment to evaluating our programs and using evidence to make decisions. Although disagreement and challenging questions may seem divisive to some, I believe that open and respectful debate is a key to making good decisions. Discussion and disagreements can actually foster collegiality and trust by enabling all voices to be heard. We must also recognize that time does not stand still and that unwillingness to make difficult choices harms the very children we work to serve.

Thank you for your consideration—I hope I can count on your support on Tuesday, March 31.

MEGAN ROSA

Inequity and insufficient funding are challenges that our schools are facing. Many people aren’t being heard or feel un-empowered within the community. Every decision should benefit every child and resident. We must demonstrate thoughtfulness to children; plan long-term goals; consider multiple solutions for complex problems; plan for educational excellence; determine how to enrich our schools further. We should observe every school for it’s strengths and replicate them district-wide. Amherst is a strong community; we must work together to improve the experience for all children; experience that fosters a 21st Century child that the Town of Amherst can be proud of. Please read my website for a full understanding of what I would like to accomplish by being a member of the School Committee. www.meganrosa.blogspot.com
I am a graduate of the Amherst Schools and this fall will have three children attending them. I am currently the co-chair of Mark’s Meadow PGG, as well as a member of the School Governance Council and Diversity Committee. I was also a member of the Amherst Schools Organization Committee. I am truly dedicated to all children’s success in this town and would appreciate your vote to help me succeed with this challenge.

Lobbying our state legislators to restore funds

2009-03-29T07:03:00.000-04:00

The Regional School Committee is asking for our help in lobbying our state legislators to restore funds to the school district which are used for transportation expenses. Given the dire budget outlook for the Middle and High schools, any funds that can be directed to our regional school district are crucial. Please take a look and contact our state officials. Thanks!

From the ARPS.org website:

At their March 24th meeting, the Regional School Committee voted unanimously to develop a statement for use in lobbying our legislators regarding restoration of regional transportation reimbursement. Staff, parents, and community members, are encouraged to contact our state legislators by phone and email about this issue. The following text that can be used as a script:

"As you know, the Governor’s Budget (House One) included cuts to Regional transportation reimbursement. Now that the initial distribution of fiscal stabilization funds has been used to increase all districts in the Commonwealth to foundation levels, I encourage the legislature to use a portion of the remaining stabilization funds to make whole the cuts to Regional transportation. Cuts to transportation reimbursement equal cuts to the classroom because transportation costs must be borne by the district in one way or another. In addition, these cuts are particularly problematic as local districts are being encouraged by the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education to explore the possibility of regionalization. Thank you for your continued support of our schools. "

Contact information for our legislators can be found on the district website at w ww.arps.org/node/147 .

Diversity Committee's Open Discussion Evening Event

2009-03-24T07:26:00.002-04:00

The Mark’s Meadow Diversity Committee invites all Mark’s Meadow
community members to

“RACE -THE POWER OF AN ILLUSION”:
Open Discussion Evening Event
Mark’s Meadow Auditorium
Wednesday, March 25 from 6:30-8:00
Join your fellow parents/guardians for excerpts from the PBS series
“Race- The Power of Illusion” and discussion regarding diversity
related concerns.
This forum is intended for adults only. Childcare will be provided.
Refreshments will be served.
What is Race? Is Race for real? We all know that people look different,
but are these differences racial? What does race mean? Race is a modern idea. It has no genetic basis. There's less - and more - to race than meets the eye.
Please join us to discuss and reflect upon how this issue impacts your child's experience at MM.

School Committee Candiates

2009-03-05T10:23:00.004-05:00

There will be a town-wide election on Tuesday 3/31. Two seats on the School Committee are up for grabs between three candidates. The School Committee creates the policies and budgets for all of our Amherst schools. It's important that parents get to know these candidates and get out and vote!

Here are the candidate's websites:
Irv Rhodes http://www.irvrhodesforschoolcommittee.org/
Steve Rivkin http://www.home.comcast.net/~s.rivkin/
Meg Rosa http://meganrosa.blogspot.com/

And plan to attend the League of Women Voters Candidate Forum at the Middle School on March 18th (we'll let you know the time when we find out!). It'll be filmed by ACTV in case you can't get there.

Diversity Committee Open Discussion Night

2009-03-04T18:21:00.000-05:00

The Diversity Committee’s Open Discussion Night date has been changed to Wednesday March 25^th from 6:30 – 8:00. A video will be shown in the school auditorium followed by group discussion regarding diversity at Marks Meadow. Childcare and refreshments will be available. Please join us in sharing your thoughts, ideas and concerns about diversity at our school!

NO SCHOOL, PGG MEETING RESCHEDULED

2009-03-02T06:52:00.001-05:00

NO SCHOOL TODAY due to weather.
MARK'S MEADOW PGG MEETING, Monday March 2nd is RESCHEDULED for March 9th 6:30 PM to 8 PM.

New 2009-2010 Superintendent.
The Districts choice for Superintendent is being made. As far as we know this meeting is still on. The Regional School Committee will hold a special meeting on Monday, March 2, at 7:30 for the sole purpose of choosing a Superintendent of Schools. The meeting will be held in the high school library and is open to the public.

You can see the interviews of these three candidates on ACTV

New interim superintendent named February 27th, 2009: See Announcement here.

SCHOOL COMMITTEE MEETING FEBRUARY 3rd, 2009. 7 PM at the High School cafeteria
AGENDA

1. Welcome

· A. Call to Order

· B. Agenda Review

· C. Minutes—February 10, 2009

2. Announcements and Public Comment

3. Superintendent’s Update

4. Reports

5. Unfinished/Continuing Business

· FY10 Budget Components Update

° Stimulus package/state aid status

° "Non-cut" options for closing a budget gap

° Data and logistics on two "close Marks Meadow" options

° Cuts list without instrumental music

° Class size impact of teacher cuts

° Costs of providing various programs/supports

° Budget timeline

School Committee discussion of budget options

6. New Business

7. Policies

8. School Committee Planning

· A. Calendar review

· B. Items for upcoming

· C. Sub-committee reports

9. Adjournment

Things Happening This Week.

2009-02-27T07:16:00.002-05:00

Don't forget: RECYCLE DAY, SATURDAY FEB 28th TOMORROW! 10 AM to 1 PM WE NEED YOUR HELP! PLEASE COME TO THE MARK'S MEADOW GYM TO HELP RECYCLE, CELL PHONES, RECYCLE INK AND LASER CARTRIDGES. Come for 1 hour or more, all help is appreciated. In just 3 hours we can earn as much as $1000. If you can, please bring:

Any dead cell phones
Any empty Ink or Laser cartridges. NO COPIER CARBONS
Plastic shopping bags,
Bubble wrap,
Large empty boxes for shipping,

PLEASE LET TRACY KNOW IF YOU WILL BE THERE TO HELP BY REPLYING TO marksmeadow@gmail.com

Don't forget your rockin' chairs. Bring them in Friday 2/27 for the big day Monday 3/2.

March 2nd : PGG Meeting Mark's Meadow Library 6:30 to 8 PM. Childcare is provided for this event.

March 2nd: An announcement of who has the #1 Choice from the Superintendent Candidates. 7:30 High School Library

March 3rd: Special Amherst Elementary School Committee Meeting. 7 PM High School Cafeteria.
From Nick: Andy Churchill, Chair of the Elementary School Committee, has announced that there will be an extra meeting of the Amherst School Committee "to discuss the feedback we have received, at our last meeting and since from the public, and the next iteration of budget information from staff." This meeting will take place on March 3 at 7pm in the High School cafeteria. There was no mention of childcare. It is very important for the MM community to mobilize and speak up. Attending every School Committee meeting will be important. Also, writing letters to the School Committee would be helpful also.I am going to reach out to the instrumental music teachers to see if we can come up with some alternative scenarios. We can discussed some options at the Wed. SGC meeting. Please let me know your thoughts.
Andy and the school committee asked that the School District provide the following information :
1. The impact on our budget gap of the stimulus package/state aid - as much as is known by that time.
2. A list of the "non-cut" options for closing a budget gap - fees, reserves, override, employee givebacks, etc.
3. Updated class size and redistricting information for the "close MM" options.
4. What a revised cuts list would look like if instrumental music weren't on it - we have heard a LOT about this. Also, any ideas you might have for running the music program differently, in a way that preserves the instrumental music option for all children (especially low-income), but that might address some of your concerns about academic disruption, cost, etc.
5. A sense of how class sizes affect the budget - how much do class sizes go up if we cut, say 3 teachers? 6 teachers?
6. A list of the costs involved in providing Amherst "extras": intervention, subject area coaches, art, music, PE, computer, instrumental music. Also, an estimate of costs to provide an expanded language program for all the schools building on the WW Chinese program.

SCHOOL COMMITTEE MEETING TONIGHT

2009-02-10T10:10:00.001-05:00

TONIGHT AT 7 PM IN THE MARK'S MEADOW AUDITORIUM THE SCHOOL COMMITTEE AND THE SUPERINTENDENT'S OFFICE WILL BE LOOKING AT THE BUDGETS TO DATE.

WE SENT A NOTICE HOME IN BACKPACKS YESTERDAY WITH ALL THE DETAILS. IF YOU DID NOT SEE THE NOTICE THE DETAILS OF WHAT IS BEING DISCUSS ARE HERE AND HERE.

WE RECOMMEND THAT AS MANY PARENTS, GUARDIANS AND STAFF BE AT THIS MEETING, TO UNDERSTAND WHAT IS BEING DISCUSSED ABOUT MARK'S MEADOW, WILDWOOD, FORT RIVER AND CROCKER FARM, THE EVENTUAL REDISTRICTING OF THE SCHOOLS, THE POSSIBLE CLOSURE OF MARK'S MEADOW AND THE POTENTIAL CUTS IN NEXT YEAR'S ELEMENTARY SCHOOL BUDGET.

CHILD CARE IS PROVIDED FROM 7 PM TO 9 PM, FOR CHILDREN 4 YEARS OLD AND UP. PLEASE TRY TO GET CHILDCARE FOR YOUR FAMILY, BUT IF THIS IS NOT POSSIBLE WE WILL MAKE SURE YOUR CHILD IS MONITORED. CHILD CARE IS IN THE GYM AND IN THE LIBRARY. THE MEETING MAY NOT BE OVER UNTIL AFTER 9PM, HOWEVER, WE WILL BE RELEASING OUR CHILDCARE PROVIDERS AT 9 PM SHARP.

PGG UPDATE

2009-02-09T06:13:00.002-05:00

SUPERINTENDENT CANDIDATES, PUBLIC FORUMS, Click here for more information on the Candidtes (high school library);
Monday February 9th, 7 to 8:30 PM (high school library);
Wednesday February 11th 7 to 8:30 PM (high school library);
Monday February 23rd, 7 to 8:30 PM (high school library);
CHILDCARE PROVIDED FOR CHILDREN 4 YEARS AND OLDER.Sponored by the elementary school's parent groups.
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SCIENCE NIGHT WEDNESDAY FEBRUARY 11th 6:30 to 8:00 PM. Mark's Meadow Gym.
See the list of events. This event was made possible by the hard work of parents Alyssa Melnick and Christine Gray-Mullen, The children of the afterschool science club and a grant from Amherst education foundation. Please Join US!.
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LEARN SPANISH, FRENCH, GERMAN AND AMERICAN SIGN LANGUAGE

FREE 5 WEEK Program for families interested in bringing Spanish, French, German, or American Sign Language into their home. Every Saturday Starting Jan. 31st thru Feb. 28^th, 2009

Spanish @ 10:30am

French @ 11:30 am

German @ 12:30pm

Every Sunday Starting Feb. 1^st - Mar. 1^st , 2009 Sign Language @ 11:30am

Every Saturday Starting

Story & Song Time will be geared toward children six and under but we welcome all ages and language proficiencies.

The Toy Box
201 N Pleasant St
Amherst, MA 01002

(In the downstairs Language Lounge)

visit www.amhersttoybox.com

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Superintendent Candidates Public Forums, Community Breafast and Background Information

2009-02-02T10:18:00.004-05:00

The Screening Committee for the Superintendent Search is pleased to announce that three candidates have been selected as finalists for the position of Superintendent of Schools. The three candidates are:

Dr. Isabellina Rodriguez -- visit on February 9 and 10; Public Forum from 7 to 8:30 pm on Monday, February 9th (high school library); Community Breakfast from 8 to 9 am on Tuesday, February 10th (middle school cafeteria);

Dr. David Sklarz -- visit on February 11 and 12; Public Forum from 7 to 8:30 pm on Wednesday, February 11th (high school library); Community Breakfast from 8 to 9 am on Thursday, February 12th (middle school cafeteria).

Dr. Alberto Rodriguez -- visit on February 23 and 24; Public Forum from 7 to 8:30 pm on Wednesday, February 4th (high school library); Community Breakfast from 8 to 9 am on Thursday, February 5th (middle school cafeteria);

All members of the community are invited to meet the candidates, ask questions and offer written feedback to the School Committee about the candidates.

Dr. Alberto Rodriguez currently serves as Principal of Westland Hialeah Senior High School in the Miami-Dade School District, a position he has held for two years. Dr. Rodriguez has worked in the Miami-Dade District for approximately 12 years and has held the positions of Region Superintendent, Assistant Superintendent for Human Resources and was Principal at both Miami-Killian Senior High School and American Senior High School. In his current position, Dr. Rodriguez opened this 21st century high school, based on the philosophy of preparing students to become productive citizens in an increasingly diverse, global economy. Prior, as Assistant and Associate Superintendent of the nationally acclaimed The School Improvement Zone, Dr. Rodriguez successfully led school reform of 39 chronically low-performing schools. Dr. Rodriguez obtained his undergraduate degree in Social Studies from Florida International University, followed by an M.S. in Educational Leadership from Nova Southeastern University and an Ed.D in Educational Leadership from Barry University. Dr. Rodriguez is certified as a Social Science teacher of Grades 6-12, holds K-12 School Principal certification in Florida and is licensed as a Superintendent of Schools in Pennsylvania, Virginia, and Massachusetts.

Dr. Isabellina Rodriguez is currently Superintendent of Schools in Northampton, Massachusetts, a position she has held since 2004. Dr. Rodriguez began her work in Northampton as Director of Pupil Services in 1994. In her current position, Dr. Rodriguez has worked collaboratively with the administrative team, the School Committee, and the community to design a comprehensive plan to address the achievement gap, which is proving successful. Prior to joining the Northampton School District, Dr. Rodriguez worked in the Springfield Public Schools, serving first as a Bilingual Special Education Teacher for six years, then as an Evaluation Team Leader/Crisis Support Teacher, and finally as Supervisor of Special Education. She has been an adjunct faculty member of both Elms College and of Westfield State College. With an undergraduate degree in Special Education from Westfield State College, Dr. Rodriguez secured an M.Ed from the same institution in Educational Administration, then an Ed.D in Educational Leadership from Nova Southeastern University. Dr. Rodriguez holds Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education certification as follows: Teacher of Students with Severe Special Needs, Supervisor/Director of Special Education, and Superintendent of Schools.

Dr. David Sklarz currently serves as Superintendent of Schools in West Hartford, Connecticut, a position he has held for 14 years. Prior to assuming this role, Dr. Sklarz served as Superintendent in Santa Cruz, California; Deputy Superintendent in Charlestown, South Carolina; Middle School Director in Ridgefield, Connecticut; Middle School Principal in Marblehead, Massachusetts; and Interim Principal and Assistant Principal in Concord, New Hampshire. In addition, Dr. Sklarz was a Department Supervisor/Teacher in Ipswich, Massachusetts. In his current assignment, Dr. Sklarz has led a large, diverse district with rapidly changing demographics; a district in which six of sixteen schools is nationally recognized as exemplary by the United States Department of Education. Dr. Sklarz obtained his undergraduate degree in Education and History from UMASS/Boston, then secured his MA in History and Asian Studies from Salem State College, completed a CAGS in Management Systems from Boston University, and obtained an Ed.D in Administration and Policy Analysis from Teachers’ College at Columbia University. Dr. Sklarz holds licensure as Superintendent of Schools in the State of Connecticut.

Diversity Committee Meeting

2009-01-29T14:33:00.004-05:00

Diversity Committee Meeting time change!!!
We have moved the time for our next meeting Feb 4, 2009 to 5:30-7
Child care will be provided.
Please make sure to watch the DVDs in the office before the meeting!!

Agenda:
• Diversity Evening Event
Members will select a video to be shown at the event
Finalize plans for event including brochure, childcare, refreshments, location in school, publicity, structure of the evening and set final date for Event
• Multicultural Fair
Continue discussion about ways to improve plan this event.
Supporting efforts for the planning committee.
• Community Survey
Choose questions to include in SGC survey

SCIENCE NIGHT IS JUST AROUND THE CORNER

2009-01-28T10:54:00.006-05:00

EVERYONE! You won't want to miss this, now, Mark's Meadow tradition.

Wednesday February 11th 6:30 to 8:00 PM, in the Gym
We still need parent leaders for a few of the events see below.
Contact Alyssa Melnick: alyssaruth@earthlink.net

Some events on the roster are:

Making Ice Cream: Meg Rosa

Making Rockets: Tracy Hightower

Rotation and The Big Wrench: Jennie Trashen and David Kastor

Simple Machines: The Gray-Mullen family

Pulley: Marcie and David

Electricity: after school science kids and still needs an adult

Building Bridges: after school science kids and still needs an adult

PH and Farm Family: Sara Swartz

Crayfish: still needs an adult as well

Reptiles: Steve Brewer

Solar System: Ana Paranhos

Raffle for your own Rocket Kit!

PGG and All-School Meeting on School Committee Decission Making

2009-01-27T19:49:00.005-05:00

The Mark's Meadow Parent Guardian Group is sponsoring an All-School meeting on February 2nd, 6:30 to 8 PM in the Mark's Meadow Auditorium. Parents, Guardians, Teachers and Staff are all welcome for this important event.

If you are interested in participating in a conversation regarding proposals for next years budget, redistricting, including closing Mark's Meadow, which have been set forth by the Amherst Elementary School Committee, please join us. We would like to hear your perspective.

For more information on this subject, including current press and a place to post our comments, click here.

Child care is provided for children 4 years and older.

If you can't make this event then please join the Mark's Meadow community at the February 3rd and the Feb. 10th School Committee Meeting being held in the High School Library at 7PM. Child care will be provided for both evenings for children 4 years and old.

Math Carnival Posponed

2009-01-27T19:43:00.003-05:00

Due to in climate weather the Math Carnival is postponed until February 5th 6:30 to 8 PM.

Please contact Alvie Borrell if you are interested in in volunteering. borrella@arps.com

National Girls and Women In Sport Day

2009-01-27T19:37:00.000-05:00

National Girls and Women In Sport Day Youth Clinics at Smith College

The 18th annual sport clinics for girls 3rd through 5th grades are being
held Sunday, February 1, from 12:30-4 p.m. in the ITT. Girls have the
chance to try out different sports with Smith College athletes (from track &
field, field hockey, crew & more). Wear comfortable clothes & sneakers.
Snacks, certificates & t-shirts are provided for free.

Pre-registration is required. Call 585-2708 to sign up with the athletics
department. Also, fill out the attached form & bring it with you on Sunday.

Amherst Education Foundation: Every kid gets the best.

2009-01-27T18:02:00.007-05:00

Here is a link to a survey that Amherst Education Foundation (AEF) has put out to the Parents of the Amherst Public and Regional School System, which helps them plan for there support in the next few years. Please take the time to look at what is important to you. Help AEF decide their direction for supporting your children in the best education they can have.

What AEF has done for Mark's Meadow: The Kinder"garden", Science Club and Science Night, 5th and 6th grade Yoga Classes, support to our library ($2500) last year, and much much more. This survey would be a great way to give back.

Survey

PGG Update

2009-01-23T11:54:00.003-05:00

Brown Envelope FUN Raiser: YAY! We have reached our goal $2500 and surpassed it! We are up to $2801! Do you think we can make it to $3000? THANK YOU SO MUCH!

Volunteer forms: There is less than a week to get your Volunteer Forms in. We will draw the raffle ticket next Wednesday at the Math Carnival.

Math Carnival is Wednesday January 28th, from 6:30 to 8:00 PM. There is still time to volunteer. Contact Alvie Borrell borrella@arps.com. Also we would like snacks and baked goods for the festivities, if you are interested please let Alvie know.

Science Night is Wednesday February 11th from 6:30 to 8:00 PM. Alyssa Melnick needs your help on the evening of the event. SHe can be reached at alyssaruth@earthlink.net.

Recycle Day. Was scheduled for Janauary 31st, but we have run into some conflicts. Please Come on February 7th instead from 10 AM to 1 PM in the School Gym. More details will follow in next weeks memo.

Redistricting and school budgets. Important information about all Elementary Schools for 2009-2010 School Year. Please let us know what you think, by clicking here.

Mark's Meadow PGG

PICNIC

6th soon to be 7th grade summer reading and math opportunities.

LAST DAY OF SCHOOL EARLY RELEASE

Thank a Teacher! Deadline June 10

Celebrate Mark’s Meadow

Celebrate Mark’s Meadow

June 12th, 2010

LSSE Special Offer

LSSE Summer Programs

Travel Soccer Team Tryouts.

Legal Services Subcommittee of the Regional School Committee

Amherst Police Department Open House

Thank a Teacher! End-Of-School-Year-Gift idea!

A whole lot of things going on.

Welcome New Families!

Consider This!

Our Teachers are Stars & May 4th is Their Day to Shine!

Sign up for the Wildwood Blog

Rotary Club of Amherst Gives $25,000 to build the Crocker Farm Play Ground

Chess Club information for Wildwood next fall

UPDATE:

Finalists Announced for Middle School Principal Position

Forum to meet the 3 finalists for the Middle School Principal

Ice Skating for new Wildwood families

Go,Kids Art,Go!

COMMUNITY NEWS DON'T MISS OUT

HEY ALL YOU FACEBOOKERS Celebrate Mark's Meadow

The Amherst Education Foundation has met its challenge!

Rock & Read. Another Successful Mark's Meadow Event. Happy Birthday Dr. Seuss!

Crocker Farm Dance-a-Thon

Amherst Education Foundation Challenge!

A Year with Frog and Toad

Checks should be made payable to ARHS Musical

Rock and Read Day

Five Important Messages

Eat Out and Help Crocker Farm

Four-Towns Meeting

Stay Connected Meetings

New Wildwood Families Get Together!!!

Crocker Farm Playground Fundraising

Internet Safety Information

Dates and Info you should know about Budget meetings

Nordic Ski Program

Support Amherst Athletics- Monte Carlo Night March 13th

Coffee for new Wildwood families

Redistricting Informational Meetings Scheduled

Thinking about holiday gifts? Here are two great ideas.

Internet Safety for Children

Amherst 250th Gala

Amherst Youth Basketball

More H1N1 Vaccination Clinics

Maintaining excellent schools meeting

H1N1 vaccinations

Amherst 250th Parade DVDs for sale

Mt Holyoke Study

Free Family Event

Stop and Shop, Big Y and More....

AMHERSTOPOLY ORDER FORM

AEF Trivia Bee Raises $6150 For Our Schools!

LSSE Opportunity For Fun On Veterans Day

UMass host a Forum of Senatorial Candidates

FAMILY FUN! BUZZ ON OVER.

The AEF 15th Annual Trivia Bee Thursday, Oct. 29

Public Forum for Redistricting and background information.

Pancake Breakfast

Fun family 5K Run or Walk for a great cause!

APPLE HARVEST FESTIVAL

Mark's Meadow Open House

Amherst's 250th Anniversary Parade: We need your help!!!

Amherst Education Foundation 15th Annual Trivia Bee

Wednesday Sept 16, 2009 Whole Foods 5% to Farm to School

Interview with Dr. Alberto Rodriguez

Tonight! Join the fun & help paint our parade banner!

Back to School Potluck

School Parent Organizations

PGG Updates

PGG Update and an Opportunity for Kids

Diversity Committee Meeting reminder

Travel soccer try- outs are coming soon!!

June 12^th, 2010