Audra Bucklin

Dear Families,

What a week! Thank you to all for your support of Teachers during Teacher Appreciation Week! The week kicked off with a nutritious breakfast provided by staff who serve on our “SPICE Committee.” This was followed on Wednesday with a wide selection of yummy lunch items as well as teacher gifts supplied by the PTA. Finally, the School Board spoiled us with delicious snacks and treats to close out the week today. We were thankful for the reminders of support, especially due to a couple of more stressful events this week:

  1. Yesterday, just as I got to 12A on my way to the 7th and 8th-grade field trip to the Montshire, I received calls that the office received a concerning communication and, out of an abundance of caution, we entered into a Clear the Halls protocol (Double check all door locks, draw shades, keep students in your room and await additional information while carrying on with instruction and learning.) The police were contacted and able to confirm the communication was a “spoof” that was being widely circulated including to other schools here in the Upper Valley.
  2. Today, just as our older students were transitioning in from recess (and our younger students heading out), we had to call a “Reverse Evacuation” where students quickly return to their classrooms and remain there until they receive further information. A reverse evacuation can be for a number of reasons from an unknown animal on the playground to a medical emergency. I am happy to share that everyone is fine and we were able to invite all students back outside to enjoy the remaining 15 minutes of recess. 

This week also marked some substantial celebrations:

  1. The Class of 2023 earned nearly $7,000 at their auction last weekend! Thanks to all who supported the Class of 2023 school trip.
  2. After weeks of effort, the 5th graders performed “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” at Northern Stage. Students in grades 3 through 6 enjoyed the dress rehearsal in Cornish on Monday. They all did a fantastic job!
  3. Grades 7 & 8 went to the Montshire to immerse themselves in a “Jewel Heist” event where students applied forensic science to determine “Whodoneit.” Check out these videos of PES students in the news: 
    1. https://www.wcax.com/2023/05/11/student-sleuths-tackle-forensic-science-mystery/
    2. https://www.mynbc5.com/article/eighth-grade-detectives-help-solve-a-jewel-theft-using-science-at-the-montshire/43866979#
  • The Student Council & 2nd Grade Plant Sales were huge successes. Many students and teachers left with plants in tow. Those gardens are going to look great 🙂

SAS TESTING:

Next week we are looking forward to beginning SAS testing. See the attached letter detailing the content, procedures, and intention behind this important state test. We hope all children will start the week off well-rested and ready to show us and the folks in Concord all the wonderful learning that has happened here this year. 

EARLY RELEASE Wednesday, May 17, 2023 - Teacher Professional Development Dismissal is at 12:50 pm (2 hours earlier than usual)

OTHER UPCOMING EVENTS

Be sure to mark your calendars for the following:

  • Wednesday, May 17 - 5:30 pm - Parents Only Kindergarten Orientation Night
  • Tuesday, May 23 - 5:30 pm - Kinder/1st Grade Social Emotional Learning - Part 2 (UNH Browne Center)
  • There are two 3/4  art club sessions left 5/24/23 and 6/7/23  from 3-4:00
  • Friday, May 26 - 12:30 to 2:30 pm - Beaupre Community Service Day - All helpers welcome!
  • There is 1 Middle school art club left on 5/31/23 from 3-4:00
  • Wednesday, May 31 - Spring Concert and Unified Arts Showcase Event. June 12, 2023 - LHS 8th Grade Tour

ALSO HAPPENING AROUND TOWN…

KUA Open House Announcement

Admission Open House: This Is KUA

Sat, May 13

8:45-11:30 a.m.

Join us for an Open House to learn more about KUA Design, our unique approach to education. You'll meet Head of School Tyler Lewis, experience our breathtaking New Hampshire campus, learn about the fun and challenging opportunities available to you, and engage with the students and faculty who call KUA home. Register

Second Growth Summer Camp Opportunities - see attached flier

As always, please remind your child(ren) to check Lost & Found and clean out their lockers and desks. Please don’t forget you can view our Lost and Found closet online. The lost and found website is updated weekly. 

Best,

Audra