It is currently Open House season at school. The Open House for families of fifth through eighth grade students was held on September 13 and was very well attended. Families spent an hour and a half touring classrooms, meeting new staff members, hearing about new activities and technology, learning about curriculum expectations, and ending the evening by winning fabulous prizes. The Open House for families of children in kindergarten through grade four was held on September 27. The elementary Open House is always an exciting night as students enthusiastically and proudly “tour” their parents throughout the building and share their learning experiences.

The first official meeting of the AE/MS Parent Teacher Organization is Monday, October 1, at 6:30 PM in the school library. The PTO volunteers do so much to help students, staff, and families. A focus this year will be the playground and skateboard park area. Equipment is beginning to age, and it is time to revitalize things a bit. Fundraising efforts have been underway for this project and will continue.

Walk to School Day is Wednesday, October 3. AE/MS has been participating in the international event for several years. Students arrive at school and then re-board buses in their grade-level groups with staff members. Students and staff members are then dropped off at three locations on the Rail Trail to walk back to school. Upon arrival back at school there will be fresh fruit, water, and music in the gym. If the weather is bad we will try again the following Wednesday.

Parents are more than welcome to join us, but unfortunately we don’t have room on the buses. Please feel free to meet us on the trail.

Math Night is Thursday, October 25! It is a great family night at school, with math games and activities for all school-aged children and adults. Plan on joining the fun! Math Night this year is going to be one of the best ever.

Once again we will be inviting all Andover veterans to a ceremony to honor them and our country. Veterans will be mailed invitations for the festivities to be held on Wednesday, November 7, at 9 AM. We are always grateful that so many veterans and/or family members attend every year. It is so beneficial for our students to participate and learn from this annual event. Spread the word! This is one of the most important and favorite days for our school community.