October 27, 2023

Weekly Information for October 27th

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Dear Parker families, students and staff,


As we approach the end of our first academic quarter, we pause to reflect on the hard work, intellectual rigor and sense of community that defines Parker. It has been a great kickoff to the year. Our students are completing assessments, making revisions and engaging in their classes. This requires hard work – often emotional and frustrating yet deeply meaningful and rewarding for our students. We hosted PSATs on Wednesday and PLP conferences last week. Progress Reports come out in mid-November. Seniors just completed their Letters of Intent defining the essential question and goals for their year-long Senior Projects. Many of our Seniors have also submitted their first round of applications to colleges. Our students are busy, and their work is important.


At the same time, we create opportunities to celebrate our community and come together as one. This week we hosted the Cup Cup Challenge in Division 2, Junior Gourd Challenge, Senior Trivia, and Café Wednesday. Next week we host a Halloween party in Division 1. And of course, advisories across the school celebrated the fall season with art projects, activities and games that help develop and nurture the culture of the group. Finally, today marked the conclusion of a week-long Four-Square Tournament sponsored by the Wellness domain. The Outback was packed and boisterous with music playing and play-by-play announcing as students rallied around their peers and teachers. Congratulations to Four-Square Champion Sarah Rogers!


These opportunities to have fun help to foster a culture of hard work, community and common purpose at Parker. Thank you for engaging in all aspects of Parker.


Brian

This week’s topics:
  • Call for Student Artwork!
  • Winter Sports Registration
  • Ski and Snowboard Club
  • Teacher Appreciation
  • Dental Care at Parker
  • Carpool List and Student Directory
  • MART Transportation


Call for Student Artwork!


This year, we are excited to be creating a 2024 wall calendar featuring student artwork. Artwork submitted by students will be selected by a jury and included in the calendar which will be available for purchase before the new year! For more information, see this flyer. Submit your artwork online here by November 6th. Contact Katrina, Marena or Sheila with any questions!


Winter Sports Registration


Register now for winter sports: Winter Track, Basketball (Middle School, JV, and Varsity), or Boys High School Hockey Co-op with Littleton and Bromfield using this link: https://forms.office.com/r/szqjERZksc


All practices begin on Monday, November 27th, and will be held on Monday through Friday that week.


For more information click here: https://www.theparkerschool.org/students-parents/athletics


Ski & Snowboard Club


Registration is open for Parker Ski and Snowboard Club! Check here for details and to register. Price increases after 12/1. Program begins 1/3. Chaperones are needed!


Teacher Appreciation


Families who would like to show their appreciation of Parker teachers can sign up to drop off goodies for them. The faculty are always very grateful for these treats! Please click here to learn more and sign up.


Dental Care at Parker (Caring for Kids)


Reminder students have an opportunity to receive dental care here at Parker School through the Caring for Kids program on Friday, November 17th. Please read about Caring for Kids HERE and complete the documents by clicking HERE and return to Nurse Lisa as soon as possible. The dental program provides a dental examination, x-rays, fluoride treatment, sealants, and teeth cleaning. There is no direct cost to the patient. However, if the child has insurance, the insurance will be billed. If you have any questions, please email Lisa Zick at lzick@theparkerschool.org.


Updated Carpool List & Student Directory


Reminder a copy of the updated Carpool List may be picked up at the front office (hard copy only). Also, a printed Student Directory can be purchased at the front office for $3. If you would prefer to have a directory mailed to you, you can send $5 to Parker School or pay $5 online via UniPay under Misc, Fees, Other.


MART Transportation


Reminder to click here for more information about a potential shuttle from Bolton, Boxborough, Littleton or Stow. MART currently provides taxi/livery service from these towns but are willing to start shuttles with enough participation. Contact Keary Connors at keary.connors@mrta.us if interested.


Click here to learn more about taxi/livery service from Bolton, Boxborough, Lancaster, Littleton, Lunenburg, Sterling, or Stow.


MART also offers shuttle service to and from the Boys and Girls Club of Fitchburg and Leominster. Pickup is at 7:45 AM and drop off is at 4:15 PM at BGCFL. Cost is $4/ride or $80/month. Call MART directly at 800-922-5636 Option 3 by at least 4:30 PM the day before the ride is needed. Ask for the Devens Workforce Ride Program – Parker Charter and Boys and Girls Club.

Parents of Athletes

Do you know how to find your way to Parker’s playing locations? We have a GREAT feature on our website with interactive Google maps - just enter your address to receive directions to any of our game and meet locations. Find this feature under “Students & Parents>Athletics>Directions to Athletic Venues” or just click HERE.

Upcoming Dates of Note:
Fri - Nov 10 Veterans Day - No School
Tue - Nov 14 Board of Trustees
Wed - Nov 22 Noon Dismissal
Thu-Fri - Nov 23-24 Thanksgiving Break
CLICK HERE TO SUPPORT THE PARKER FUND!
Looking for help with or concerning: Please contact:
a specific class or assignment the teacher of that class (see Parker email list)
technical support email: helpdesk@theparkerschool.org
your family's or student's health email: lzick@theparkerschool.org
mental health/emotional support needs email: skelly@theparkerschool.org
food insecurity/free and reduced school lunch needs email: mmckenna@theparkerschool.org

The Francis W. Parker Charter Essential School is committed to equal employment and educational opportunity for all members of the school community and prohibits discrimination on the basis of the basis of race, color, gender, pregnancy or pregnancy status, religion, gender identity, age, national origin, sexual orientation, homelessness, or disability, in the operation of the educational programs, activities, or employment policies.

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