Principal Talib Sadiq will host a virtual Coffee with the Principal on Thursday, October 22 at 6:30PM. He will be updating the ARHS Community on his thoughts and priorities about the year ahead as well as answer questions from the community.
Join : meet.google.com/tne-wytc-rzi
Join by Phone: (US) +1 281-940-3418 PIN: 974 151 866#
Seniors considering Early Decision and/or Early Action, consider attending this brief overview of the process.
This is information for seniors who are applying for an early decision or early action, and even considering it.
We’ll review Common Application, teacher recommendations, essay & supplements (briefly), school counselor recommendation, linking Naviance and Common App, who sends what, and whatever questions that you have about this process.
Event: Early Decision & Early Action Q & A
Friday, Oct 16 at 11:50 AM
College Planning Roundtable: Members of the Class of 2021 and their families are invited to the Class of 2021 College Planning Roundtable on October 22nd from 3:00pm-5:00pm. Join 30+ admissions representatives, financial aid advisors, and alums to discuss how to survive and thrive in the college planning and financial aid process. This will be a virtual event with two 50 minute sessions at 3:00pm and 4:05 pm). Register here: http://bit.ly/2021CollegeRoundtable
Got Questions? Are you a senior with questions about Naviance, Common App, college visits, or more? Miss Crystal Garrity has openings for meetings to check in and help you out! You can sign-up for a 1-on-1 virtual meeting, or book a slot on Tuesday or Friday afternoons from 2:30-3:30 for an outdoor, masked, socially distanced in-person assistance. These in-person meetings will only take place in good weather and up to 4 students may sign up at a time. Click this link! https://calendly.com/miss-garrity
Virtual Latinx College Fair Presented by the PEAS Collaborative & ASA: Thursday, October 22, 2020, 5:00 – 7:30 PM We invite caregivers and youth to join us for this virtual college fair which will begin with a brief College 101 introductory session which highlights important dates, suggestions for finding the “right fit”, and other useful information. Following our College 101 Workshop youth will be able to meet with college admissions representatives and caregivers will be invited to a virtual “cafécito” to talk about issues, concerns, and questions. // Invitamos a los parientes o guardianes y jóvenes a unirse con nosotros en esta feria universitaria virtual que comenzará con un breve taller “Introducción de Universidad” que destaca fechas importantes, sugerencias para encontrar el “ajuste perfecto” y otra información útil. Después de nuestro taller introductorio, los jóvenes podrán reunirse con representantes de admisiones de diferentes universidades y los parientes o guardianes serán invitados a un “cafécito” virtual para hablar sobre problemas, preocupaciones y preguntas. Register Here!
ALL HANDS ON DECK! It’s time to get creative!
The yearbook is getting started! We need everyone to participate in this year’s yearbook. Show us what learning, clubs, events, sports, and social activities look like for you in this strange year!
What you can do:
Important Notes on Senior Photos:
Notes for FAMILIES:
Questions? Email Crystal Garrity at garrityc@arps.org!
Información del Anuario 2021
¡MANOS A LA OBRA! ¡Es hora de ser creativo!
¡El anuario está empezando! Necesitamos que todos participen en el anuario de este año. ¡Muéstranos cómo el aprendizaje, los clubes, los eventos, los deportes y las actividades sociales son para ti en este extraño año!
Lo que puede hacer:
¡Díganos lo que quiere en el anuario añadiéndolo a nuestro Padlet!!
¡Muéstranos lo que quieres en el anuario enviando fotos a arps.picaboo.com!!
¡Controla lo que pasa en el anuario uniéndote al Club del Anuario! En nuestra Aula de Google: rpacnqw Tendremos reuniones los Lunes 3:30-4:15. ¡No necesitas asistir a todas las reuniones para participar!
Todas las familias pueden reservar el Anuario Goldbug 2021 a partir del 21st de octubre en arps.picaboo.com, hasta el 1de abril. Después del 1deabril, deberán pagar por el envío. TODO el pedido se realiza en línea!
Notas para los estudiantes del último año (SENIORS):
• Las fotos de los SENIORS (que aparecerán en el anuario en lugar de la foto de su identificación de la escuela) vencen el 22 De Enero. Envíe por correo electrónico todas las fotos como imágenes JPEG o TIFF a garrityc@arps.org.
o Su foto de los SENIORS debe ser de usted mismo y de usted solamente (las mascotas son aceptables). Las fotos deben ser apropiadas para la escuela. Rechazaremos las fotos inapropiadas.
o El tamaño debe ser orientación vertical, un estándar de 4x5in. o una proporción de eso. Asegúrese de que su resolución sea buena para imprimir. Recortaremos fotos que no cumplan con las dimensiones adecuadas y rechazaremos cualquier foto con baja resolución o mala calidad.
o Comuníquese con Miss Crystal Garrity si necesita ayuda para que le tomen su foto. Podemos ayudar a organizar una sesión de fotos gratis manteniendo la distancia social con el personal del anuario.
• Las nominaciones superlativas y las votaciones se llevarán a ocurrir en enero. Se realizará a través de un formulario de Google que se le enviará por correo electrónico. ¡No pierdas de vista estos formularios!
• Si su familia está registrada para el almuerzo gratuito / reducido a partir del 1 de Octubre, póngase en contacto con Crystal Garrity por correo electrónico (garrityc@arps.org) a más tardar en 24 de Noviembre para recibir un código de cupón para reservar una tarifa reducida. Si no solicita un código antes de 24 de Noviembre, usted tendrá que pedir a precio completo.
Notas para FAMILIAS:
• ¡Los anuncios de los padres ayudan a pagar anuarios gratuitos para los SENIORS con almuerzo gratis o reducido! Los anuncios cuestan 45 dólares por un anuncio de un cuarto de página. Podrás subir tu anuncio en el sitio de Picaboo a partir del otoño. Por favor, suscríbete al boletín de PGO para recibir actualizaciones!
¿Preguntas? Envíe un correo electrónico Crystal Garrity en garrityc@arps.org!
Flyer (English) https://drive.google.com/file/d/1Fs_qzuGHB_dIG5PsDBr8Lzl5fQs1M35x/view?usp=sharing
Información del Anuario 2021: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1Fs_qzuGHB_dIG5PsDBr8Lzl5fQs1M35x/view?usp=sharing
Since last week’s update we only had a couple of competitions. However, our teams are continuing to improve during practices. Field hockey went 0 and 2 against Minnechaug improving the score differential from the previous week against Longmeadow. Please continue to check the MIAA site for updated game dates, as many games were rescheduled or will be rescheduled soon!
Home games are posted on youtube for your convenience. Please continue to cheer our Hurricanes from afar!
The time to register for AP Exams is here! Click here for information about how to register and submit payment for AP Exams this year.
The final deadline, without incurring a $40 late registration fee from the College Board, is Thursday, November 12. The full cost of each AP Exam is $95, and the reduced fee is $53.
If you want an even more information and updates about what’s happening at ARHS, visit the Morning Announcements website at:
The 2020 Election is underway! With early voting beginning this weekend, deadlines for voter registration fast approaching on 10/24, and mail-in ballot requests due by 10/20, now is the time to make sure you have a plan to vote.
Next week, the ARHS Library will be hosting 30 minute voter information sessions during lunch to help first time student voters get registered, informed, and ready to vote on or before November 3rd. Sessions are open to all students, as well as ARHS faculty and staff, regardless of current voter eligibility or citizenship status. All sessions will be held at this link meet.google.com/lookup/arhsvotes from 12-12:30 and 12:30-1.
Caregivers at home can also use the links above to check their own voter registration status, ballot, and make a plan for voting if they haven’t already done so. Questions? Contact the librarian Ella Stocker at stockere@arps.org!
1. Do You Bank at Florence Bank? Do you or someone in your family bank at Florence Bank? If so, you can help support the ARPS PGO through their Customers’ Choice Community Grants program. We can win up to $5,000 – go to http://www.florencebank.com/vote, select Amherst Regional Public Schools PGO from the dropdown menu, and cast your ballots before December 31. Everyone in your family with an account can vote!
2. 
Is your household doing any online shopping through Amazon? Did you know you can earn money for the ARHS PGO with each Amazon purchase. Enroll in this passive fundraising to earn money for the Amherst/Amherst Regional School PGOs while you shop! Shop at smile.amazon.com/ch/46-4510327 and Amazon donates to Amherst Regional Public Schools Parent Guardian Organization.
To select our as your permanent charity, go to https://smile.amazon.com/ Click Your Account -> Your Amazon Smile -> Change Charity button. Search for “Amherst Amherst Regional Public Schools Parent Guardian Organization” -> Click Select.
3. Register Your Stop & Shop Card for A+ Rewards! Every time you shop at any Stop & Shop using your Stop & Shop Card or phone #, you will earn A+ Points. These points become CASH for your kids’ school(s)! There are two easy ways to participate: ▪ Sign in or create an account at stopandshop.com ▪ Go to My Account ▪ Select Rewards and Programs ▪ Pick up to two schools – ARHS, ARMS, Crocker Farm, Fort River, and/or Wildwood Or call 877-366-2668 option #1 and designate your kids’ school(s) by using your phone number – no need to find your S&S card!
* The ARPS PGO is a nonprofit comprised of the Crocker Farm, Wildwood, ARMS, and ARHS PGOs;
Oct 16 Early Action/ Early Decision Q & A- 11:50am
Oct 19: Voter Registration Info Session 12-12:30 and 12:30 – 1PM
Oct 20: Different Ways to Vote and How to do it Info Session 12-12:30 and 12:30 – 1PM
Oct 21: Yearbook Pre-orders Begin (Online only)
Oct 22:Understanding What’s on My Ballot Info Session 12-12:30 and 12:30 – 1PM
Oct 22- Virtual Coffee with the Principal- 6:30 PM
Oct 22: College Planning Roundtable 3PM; 4:05 PM
Oct 22: Virtual Latinx College Fair 5:00 – 7:30 PM
Oct 23: Getting Involved in Democracy Info Session 12-12:30 and 12:30 – 1PM
Oct 29: NEACAC and GoToCollegeFairs
Nov 3: All Teachers Curriculum/Work Day (No School) Election Day
Nov 11: Veterans Day (Observed) (No School)
Nov 12: Last Day to Register for AP Exams (without late fee)
Nov 15: NEACAC and GoToCollegeFairs
Nov 18: PreK-12 Early Release (12:00 secondary/1:20 elementary)
Nov 25-27: Thanksgiving Break
Dec 16: PreK-12 Early Release (12:00 secondary/1:20 elementary)
Dec 21-Jan 1 : Winter Break
Jan 6: Three Kings Day (No School)
Jan 13: PreK-12 Early Release (12:00 secondary/1:20 elementary)
Jan 18: MLK Holiday (No School)
Jan 22: Last Day to Submit Senior Photos for Yearbook
Jan 27 & 28: MS/HS Early Dismissal (HS Exams)
Jan 29: All Teacher Curriculum/Work Day (No School)
Feb 15-19: Winter Break
Feb 24: PreK-12 Early Release (12:00 secondary/1:20 elementary)
Mar 10: PreK-12 Early Release (12:00 secondary/1:20 elementary)
Mar 17: All Teachers Curriculum/Work Day (No School)
Mar 24: PreK-12 Early Release (12:00 secondary/1:20 elementary)
Apr 2: Good Friday (No School—Budgetary Reasons)
Apr 14: PreK-12 Early Release (12:00 secondary/1:20 elementary)
Apr 19-23: Spring Break
May 12: PreK-12 Early Release (12:00 secondary/1:20 elementary)
May 31: Memorial Day (No School)
June 19″ Juneteenth Holiday
June 24: Last day of school (no snow days are included; all inclement weather days will be distance learning)
Attendees will participate using a Zoom platform to recreate the Trivia Bee experience from home. Each team will be assigned to a Zoom breakout room. After each question is asked, the Zoom host will send teams into their breakout rooms. The teams discuss and decide on and answer while in the breakout room. When time is up, the host will pull teams back into the main Zoom meeting to hear the answer. Teams keep their own scores (honor system). Watch a video on how Zoom breakout rooms work to learn more. Detailed instructions will be sent to all the players prior to the event.
Participation is free, but we encourage donations benefiting the Amherst Education Foundation and our public schools. During the registration process, you will be asked to select a team you are a part of. PARTICIPANT SIGN-UP
If you are not participating, but would like to donate to the AEF Trivia Bee, use the button below. If you would like to support a particular Trivia Bee team with your donation, make sure to enter the name of the team. DONATE TO THE TRIVIA BEE
Sign-up is required only to participate in the Trivia Bee, not to simply view the event as part of the audience. It will be live broadcast on YouTube.
For more information, visit https://www.amhersteducationfoundation.org/trivia-bee
Come, Come!! Be part of our story: Multi-Arts invites you to our virtual presentation of “Project Earth”, a humorous and entertaining story full of imagination about what our world will be in the year 3,000. There is hope! With doable actions we can change the direction our planet is heading.
This show will be performed by professional actors in collaboration with children. It will include throughout an original gorgeous composition by our local composer Luna Wolf. The story was created by Multi-Arts kids, and directed by Multi-Arts theater teacher Maia Kinney-Petrucha. For sure you’re in for the adventure of a lifetime!
Join us for this celebration of our amazing planet on November 1st at 4pm, and help spread awareness about the changes we need to make to protect it.
Request our zoom link at info@multi-arts.orgCatalina Arrubla
What do you see when you look at this picture? What do you think that your child could say about the mushroom groupings?
Did you notice that the mushrooms on top are big and the ones on the bottom are little? Now can you see that some of the little ones are even littler and some of the big ones are even bigger? Look at the top row. Can you point to the little big mushrooms? Without more specifics, could you point to the big little mushrooms?
If your 8 yr old does not know the difference between “a big little mushroom” and “a little big mushroom” — he or she may need some more opportunities with these kinds of experiences. If your 4 yr old does not know the difference — he hopefully will acquire it with the relevant exposure. Your 6 yr old child? She might be just the age where our experiments not only help us understand language development but benefit from these specially designed activities. Our ‘experiments’ are unique in that they are created to teach children while also learning from them. Our goal is for these opportunities to inform classroom experience — and this is based on the invaluable collaboration between you, your school, and the Language Acquisition Lab at UMass. That’s why Tom Roeper and his team from the UMass Linguistics Department have created an online opportunity for children ages 4 – 15 to explore fun language activities while zooming with a researcher. Email dfoucaulteth@umass.edu or roeper@linguist.umass.edu for more information! Your child can earn $5 just for participating.
Families should call the Absence Notification Line (413-362-1718) or email arhsoffice@arps.org to report absences, tardies, power outages, and other things that cause their child to be late, or that prevents them from attending class. Those calls and emails will excuse absences and tardies.
A couple of other things to know about the attendance policy: Three unexcused tardies equal one unexcused absence. Arriving to or leaving class 20 minutes or more after it has started, without a valid reason, equals an unexcused absence.
Families will receive communication from the school after their student has accumulated three unexcused absences in one Quarter. After six unexcused absences families will receive a letter from the Central Office. At nine unexcused absences, an Attendance Meeting will be scheduled to determine what types of supports the student and family may need to increase attendance, and to determine if the student will receive credit for the class. During the Attendance Meeting, students and their families will discuss the circumstances of the absences with the Dean of Students or a high school administrator.
Please contact the Main Office at arhsoffice@arps.org with any questions.
Dear ARPS Community:
Last Thursday, October 1, we notified the community that a staff member at Fort River school had tested positive for Covid. Two subsequent tests of the staff member have returned negative results, and other employees who were in close contact with the staff member have also tested negative for Covid. We appreciate the outstanding level of cooperation shown by all impacted staff in following appropriate Covid-related precautions and guidelines of their own primary care physicians and the DPH/CDC.
Michael Morris, Superintendent
Estimada comunidad de ARPS:
El jueves pasado, 1 de octubre, notificamos a la comunidad que un miembro del personal de la escuela de Fort River había dado positivo para COVID. Dos pruebas posteriores del empleado han arrojado resultados negativos, y otros empleados que estuvieron en estrecho contacto con el empleado también han dado negativo para COVID. Apreciamos el excelente nivel de cooperación mostrado por todo el personal afectado en el seguimiento de las precauciones apropiadas relacionadas con COVID y las directrices de sus propios médicos de atención primaria y del DPH/CDC.
Michael Morris, Superintendente
State public health officials announced that influenza immunization will be required for all children 6 months of age or older who are attending Massachusetts child care, pre-school, kindergarten, K-12, and colleges and universities. The new vaccine requirement is an important step to reduce flu-related illness and the overall impact of respiratory illness during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Students will be expected to have received a flu vaccine by December 31, 2020 for the 2020-2021 influenza season, unless either a medical or religious exemption is provided.
There is als a new meningococcal vaccine requirement for students attending 11th grade and who are 16 years of age. The reference to MDPH is here.
https://www.mass.gov/doc/new-meningococcal-conjugate-vaccine-menacwy-requirement-for-school-entry-1/downloadWe would like to ask families to remember to provide documentation to the school nurse when their child receives these vaccines. Documentation can be faxed to us at 413-549-9753, mailed to us at school or scanned and emailed to Robbin Suprenant, RN at suprenantr@arps.org or Mary O’Brien, RN at obrienm@arps.org. We can be reached by email or at 413-362-1743 or 413-362-1744 if there are questions.
Amherst Field Hockey had their first two contests against Longmeadow, the reigning western MA champions. Although both games ended with a loss it was a great experience for our team. Girls Soccer had their first competitive away game last Monday against South Hadley losing to the reigning state champions 3 to 1. Boys Soccer is currently 1-1 losing to South Hadley 3 to 2 and beating Granby on Tuesday, 4 to 0. Both of our cross country teams defeated Belchertown on Tuesday. Our volleyball team traveled to Holyoke, winning 3-0.
I appreciate all of the community’s support as we continue to work on providing our student-athletes with a safe and positive athletic experience. Please find home our games posted on youtube for your convenience.
Go ‘Canes!
Victoria Stewart
Director of Athletics
ARHS will not be offering the SAT during the fall and winter of 2020-2021. Please note that most colleges and universities are test optional, and some are test blind (meaning if you submit scores, admissions will not review in the name of equity & access). Please devote your time and energy to the aspects of the application that you have control over. Breathe and move forward.
Traveling to other states is inadvisable for a number of reasons.
College Essay Support on Mondays!
3:00-3:30pm – Here’s the link to drop in – see you soon!
NEW! Office Hours with Your Friendly Neighborhood College and Career Advisor
Mondays 11:50-12:20 & Wednesday 9:00-9:30am – Here’s the link (small groups)
Skills Groups- Handling Distance Learning, Organization, Stress
Build Skills! Connect! Thrive! A 3 session groups starting 10/13
Small groups designed to help ARHS students thrive!
1. Finding your Rhythm with Distance Learning Tuesdays: 10/13, 10/20, 10/27 @ 11:50 Sign up here: https://forms.gle/EZmr9isX7uE7YdEA7
2. How to Deal: Teen Wellness and Stress Management Tuesdays: 10/13, 10/20, 10/27 @ 12:30 Sign up here: https://forms.gle/AA2tpNDadMthJQC18
3. Academic Organization: Session 1 Wednesdays: 10/14, 10/20, 10/28 @ 2:30 Sign up here: https://forms.gle/Y3Ey3fbqFJ79XTNGA
4. Academic Organization: Session 2 Thursdays: 10/15, 10/21, 10/22 @ 2:30 Sign up here: https://forms.gle/1Agw41iK42hF9XRS9
NEACAC and GoToCollegeFairs – Dates
Partnering with GoToCollegeFairs, NEACAC is excited about this unique opportunity for students to explore virtual “booths”, chat with admission representatives, watch presentations, and much more! More than 250 Institutions will be exhibiting at the College Fairs.
Registration is required, but is FREE! In order to register (yourself or students!), please visit https://neacac.swoogo.com/NEACACVirtual and follow the steps to register and gain access to the fair.
Admission Representatives will be available LIVE on the following dates and times:
Tuesday, October 13, 2020 (6-8:00 pm)
Thursday, October 29, 2020 (6-8:00 pm)
Sunday, November 15, 2020 (1-3:00 pm)
College Planning Roundtable 10/22 3:00pm-5:30 Save the Date!
ARHS College Planning Roundtable – 3:00-5:00pm visit and learn about the college planning process – Virtual roundtable with recent ARHS alums and admissions representatives.
FAFSA Resources
Federal Student Aid – Government resource for FAFSA – link.
MEFA.org – Massachusetts Educational Financing Authority – link
MEFA Videos – link
Edmit.me – Great resource on the financial health of colleges and universities, financing college – link.
MASFAA – Massachusetts Association of Student Financial Aid Administrators – FAFSA Day – Free support in English and Spanish – link
SallieMae – Free FAFSA Webinar – registration link
College Vine – Awesome essay and admissions advice
Specific supplemental essay and Common Application support – link
No More Handbook – College Planning Howlers Instead – more coming soon!
(you need and @arps.org email to view – seniors collaborate with your parents/guardians)
Take Control of the College Planning Process
College and Career Advisor & School Counselor Recommendation Meetings
Upcoming College Greenlight Panels
| Oct 14 & 157PM – 9PM EST | Online College Block Party: College & Careers |All high- school students, counselors, and parents are invited to gain expert advice from college reps and current college students. Students will get further guidance on how to (1) explore their college options and (2) learn how to best differentiate majors/programs than can support their needs and career goals. We will explore the following: Liberal Arts, Health-Science, Engineering, Social Justice, & Aviation. | Registration Link & For More Detailshttp://bit.ly/CBPOCT2020 |
Westfield State University’s Urban Education Program for First Gen Students
First Generation Students! Westfield State University is offering Urban Ed Program Open Houses 10/6, 10/7, 10/15, and 10/22 all starting at 6:00 p.m. RSVP – link (Live Virtual Open House Events – bottom of page).
Learn more – Urban Ed Program information – link
University of California Admissions Writing Support
University of California Writing Support – registration link
How to Write the UC Personal Insight Questions
Saturday, October 10th
Saturday, October 17th
Saturday, October 24th
*Live Sessions are held at 2:00-3:30 pm PT (5:00-6:30pm ET)
Students will also receive access to CEG’s other OnDemand video courses as well:
How to Write a Personal Statement
How to Write the College Application + Supplemental Essays
GAP Year Possibilities
Dynamy Internship Year – link
Americorps – link
Visiting Admissions Rep Resources
Clark University
1. We have permanently moved our EA and EDI deadlines from November 1st to November 15th.
2. We have waived the application fee for all applicants this cycle.
3. We have been test optional for many years, and are clarifying for students this year: We always give students equal consideration for admission, merit scholarship, and need-based financial aid with or without their test scores.
4. We have a month of virtual events this month called Clarktoberfest! You can find more information here.
Earlham College – link
Sincerely,
Your Friendly Neighborhood College and Career Counselor, Deidre Cuffee-Gray
phone – 413 362-1720
email – cuffee-grayd@arps.org
(email is best these days…)
Oct 12: Indigenous Peoples Day (No School)
Oct 13: NEACAC and GoToCollegeFairs
Oct 22: College Planning Roundtable
Oct 29: NEACAC and GoToCollegeFairs
Nov 3: All Teachers Curriculum/Work Day (No School) Election Day
Nov 11: Veterans Day (Observed) (No School)
Nov 15: NEACAC and GoToCollegeFairs
Nov 25-27: Thanksgiving Break
Dec 16: PreK-12 Early Release (12:00 secondary/1:20 elementary)
Dec 21-Jan 1 : Winter Break
Jan 6: Three Kings Day (No School)
Jan 18: MLK Holiday (No School)
Jan 27 & 28: MS/HS Early Dismissal (HS Exams)
Jan 29: All Teacher Curriculum/Work Day (No School)
Feb 15-19: Winter Break
Feb 24: PreK-12 Early Release (12:00 secondary/1:20 elementary)
Mar 10: PreK-12 Early Release (12:00 secondary/1:20 elementary)
Mar 17: All Teachers Curriculum/Work Day (No School)
Mar 24: PreK-12 Early Release (12:00 secondary/1:20 elementary)
Apr 2: Good Friday (No School—Budgetary Reasons)
Apr 14: PreK-12 Early Release (12:00 secondary/1:20 elementary)
Apr 19-23: Spring Break
May 12: PreK-12 Early Release (12:00 secondary/1:20 elementary)
May 31: Memorial Day (No School)
June 19″ Juneteenth Holiday
June 24: Last day of school (no snow days are included; all inclement weather days will be distance learning)
Under the tent on the lawn of the Amherst History Museum (67 Amity Street – next to the Jones Library), with deals and choices so big – it’s scary! Proceeds benefit the museum. Shoppers can once again choose from a vast selection of new and used downhill, cross-country skis, ski poles, helmets, snowshoes, boots, skates, snowboards, outdoor clothing (including jackets, gloves, mittens, and hats) all in adult and youth sizes. Strict safety guidelines will be observed with periodic cleaning of surfaces and social distancing measures in place. Masks are required, costumes are appreciated! For information and updates, go to: 1 DAY TENT SALE EVENT
Dear ARPS Community:
The Amherst Health Department has notified the District that the total active cases of Covid-19 have increased from 35 to 51 since we notified you yesterday that the Phase 1 return to in-person learning would be delayed. The updated daily count exceeds the Districts’ metrics from the tentative agreement with the Amherst-Pelham Education Association for returning to in-person learning, which include:
Given these metrics, the District will implement a minimum two-week delay in the Phase 1 return to in-person learning, with an anticipated in-person learning start date of October 15, 2020. This change will also push the Phase 2 and Phase 3 return to in-person learning back by two weeks. The updated start dates are included in the chart below:
| Phase 1:Preschool, Kindergarten, First Grade, Special Populations | October 15, 2020 | Elementary: 5 days per week (9:50 a.m. to 3:10 p.m.) |
| Phase 2:Second Grade, Third Grade | November 2, 2020 | 5 days per week (9:50 a.m. to 3:10 p.m.) |
| Phase 3:All ARPS Students | November 30, 2020 | Grades 4-6: either 2 days per week or 5 days per week*(9:50 am – 3:10 pm) Grades 7-12: 1 day per week (expanded to two days in February) (9:00 am – 2:20 pm) |
*Depending on transportation and space; to be determined once binding family surveys are sent and results are analyzed (October)
As our community deals with the current uptick in Covid-19 cases, we will keep you informed of any impacts on the Amherst Regional Public Schools.
Sincerely,
Dr. Michael Morris, Superintendent
ARHS after school opportunities for students will be virtual this year. Attached is the links to our after school activities fair. It will take place on Wednesday October 7, from 12:20-12:50 PM
https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1RKYbKlz9YMAk-fXODQjw5_Sc1y4eIKG6_6QriYNKggM/edit?usp=sharing
Dear ARPS Community:
We are writing to inform you that a staff member in the Fort River School community has tested positive for COVID-19. Our first responsibility is to keep our students and staff safe, so we have been planning for this scenario during our reopening planning process. The areas frequented by the staff member who tested positive have been sanitized and/or closed off for deep cleaning, and the district is supporting the affected staff member as they navigate this stressful experience. Since students have not returned to in-person learning, no students were in close contact with the staff member.
Our staff have been closely adhering to the safety protocols when in the buildings, including mask wearing, hand washing, and physical distancing. These measures, taken in combination, greatly reduce the risk of additional transmission. Though we cannot provide specific information about the staff member who tested positive, those who were in close contact with the staff member have already been notified privately and will self-quarantine for 14 days after the last exposure to the person who tested positive, regardless of test result. We are also following all Department of Health protocols, including collaborating with our local board of health to complete contact tracing.
We are committed to continuous communication with and support of our families and staff. If you have any additional questions or concerns, please contact Jill Conselino at conselinoj@arps.org. If there is additional transmission as a result of this case or a separate case, we will send out another message immediately. Thank you for your continued support.
For more information on COVID-19 symptoms and testing, visit: https://www.mass.gov/info-details/about-covid-19-testing#where-can-get-a-test?-.
You can also find a map of testing sites at https://memamaps.maps.arcgis.com/apps/webappviewer/index.html?id=eba3f0395451430b9f631cb095febf13.
Sincerely,
Michael Morris, Superintendent
Diane Chamberlain, Fort River Principal
Jill Conselino, Nurse Manager
State public health officials announced that influenza immunization will be required for all children 6 months of age or older who are attending Massachusetts child care, pre-school, kindergarten, K-12, and colleges and universities. The new vaccine requirement is an important step to reduce flu-related illness and the overall impact of respiratory illness during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Students will be expected to have received a flu vaccine by December 31, 2020 for the 2020-2021 influenza season, unless either a medical or religious exemption is provided.
There is als a new meningococcal vaccine requirement for students attending 11th grade and who are 16 years of age. The reference to MDPH is here.
https://www.mass.gov/doc/new-meningococcal-conjugate-vaccine-menacwy-requirement-for-school-entry-1/downloadWe would like to ask families to remember to provide documentation to the school nurse when their child receives these vaccines. Documentation can be faxed to us at 413-549-9753, mailed to us at school or scanned and emailed to Robbin Suprenant, RN at suprenantr@arps.org or Mary O’Brien, RN at obrienm@arps.org. We can be reached by email or at 413-362-1743 or 413-362-1744 if there are questions.
Class of 2021 and 2022 “Half the Game is Showing Up!”
List colleges you are even remotely interested in in Naviance, and attend admissions rep visits. It makes a difference as they get to know you, and you demonstrate your interest in their institution. Juniors and Seniors are invited to attend. Up to three excused absences for admissions rep visits.
You MUST register in Naviance and communicate with your teacher beforehand in order to be considered for an excused absence.
REMEMBER TO SHARE THE MIC DURING THESE SESSIONS…
Next Week’s College Admissions Rep Visits – Sign Up in Naviance
Friday, October 2
8:30am Claremont McKenna College
9:30am Suffolk University
10am University of Vermont
10am Ursinus College
11am University of Vermont
2pm Massachusetts Maritime Academy
Monday, October 5
8:30 AM Earlham College
9:30 AM Paul Smiths College of Arts and Science
9:30 AM Simmons University
12:30 pmRingling College of Art and Design
1:30 PM Smith College
Tuesday, October 6
9:30am St Olaf College
10am Oberlin College
2pm Marist College
Wednesday, October 7
8am Clark University
8:30am Lasell University
9:30am Sarah Lawrence College
9:30am Syracuse University
10am Springfield College
11am Becker College
12pm SUNY College at Oswego
Thursday, October 8
8am Hamilton College
8am University of East Anglia (UEA)
9:30am Russell Sage College
9:30am Springfield Technical Community College
10am Plymouth State University
10am University of Saint Joseph
11am Colby College
11am Curry College
11:30am Landmark College
11:30am Salve Regina University
12pm United States Naval Academy
12:30pm Dickinson College
2pm University of New Haven
2pm Utica College
2:30pm Emmanuel College – Boston
Friday, October 9
10am Ohio Wesleyan University
10am University at Albany, SUNY
Resources from some of this week’s Admissions Reps…
If you missed a visit from this past week, be sure to reach out via email. You can ask Ms. Garrity for an admisisons rep’s email.
Bridgewater State University
I wanted to share the following BSU resources for any interested students.
Case Western
https://case.edu/admission/visits-events
Kenyon College
https://admissions.kenyon.edu/portal/virtual-infosession
https://admissions.kenyon.edu/register/virtualconnect
New YorkUniversity
Brochures: https://www.nyu.edu/admissions/undergraduate-admissions/visit-nyu/campus-brochures.html
Virtual Visits: https://www.nyu.edu/admissions/undergraduate-admissions/visit-nyu/virtual-visit.html
University of Massachusetts – Dartmouth
Prospective Students:
· We offer information sessions, student panels, virtual campus tours every week – join us virtually!
· We are now accepting applications for all terms 2021. Apply now! (salemstate.edu/apply-now)*Free*Until 11/15/20
Applicants for Admission (first year, transfer, and graduate):
· Check your Navigator account regularly for status updates to your application for admission.
· Monitor your personal email for important messages and information from Salem State Admissions.
Worcester State University
Visit Us https://www.worcester.edu/Visit-Us/
Please encourage students who are interested in Worcester State to fill out the following form to receive further information about the university.
Inquiry Form https://worcester.secure.force.com/forms?formid=217721
College Essay Guy – Great Advice
How to Decide Whether to Apply Early Action (EA) or Early Decision (ED) – Wrestling with whether or not to apply early? This guide will help you think it through.
17 Things Students of Color (& Their Counselors and Parents) Should Know When Applying to College (Podcast episode) – I’m excited to share a conversation I had with counselor extraordinaire Sydney Montgomery. On this episode, Sydney shares with us:
Sincerely,
Your Friendly Neighborhood College and Career Counselor, Deidre Cuffee-Gray
You are be able to schedule your fall “Life After ARHS” meetings.
Schedule your “Life After ARHS” Meetings with me!
These are 45 minute meetings. A portion of the meeting will be “student led,” meaning I’ll provide you with 3-4 prompts for you to talk about what your hopes, dreams, and plans are. Own your future. This is a time to discuss your plans for the future, we’ll look at your college list, consider careers, interests, explore certificate programs, GAP Year, employment opportunities, and military. Whatever floats your boat…
Life After ARHS Meetings with Ms. Cuffee-Gray sign up- link
IMPORTANT!Some things you’ll be required to complete PRIOR to meeting:
1. Update or complete your “Life After ARHS” survey in Naviance (54 Questions for 4 Year colleges, or 22 for 2 year and options other than 4 year colleges – if you have questions, check with your school counselor, Ms. Garrity or me.)
2. If you are applying to a program that requires a transcript and/or recommendations, you must complete the LIME GREEN form (seniors under the age of 18 must have a parent/guardian sign as well).The Lime Green Form is attached to this email. It is a fillable .pdf and goes to Ms. Garrity (garrityc@arps.org).Completion of this form is the only way your transcripts and recommendations will be sent out!
3. Applying to college? List the schools you’ll be applying to in Naviance (even the schools you are REMOTELY interested in). Note that Fridays are First Generation Fridays – Priority will be given to First Generation and underrepresented students on Fridays. Optional and Strongly Encouraged: College Planning Howlers! Rather than the Senior College Planning Handbook, there will be a series of “Howlers” (ala Harry Potter) on topics related to planning for Life After ARHS. Read them and get smarter about the process. Howlers will be located in my virtual office. & complete the “Senior Review of College Knowledge 2021” to clarify your knowledge of the college planning process.
Attachments:
Lime Green Release Form English and Spanish FILL IN PDF.pdf
Sincerely,
Your Friendly Neighborhood College and Career Counselor, Deidre Cuffee-Gray
phone – 413 362-1720
email – cuffee-grayd@arps.org
(email is best these days…)
September 30, 2020
Dear ARPS Community,
The district has been eagerly planning for in-person schooling to start tomorrow for many months. However, I was informed this morning by the Amherst Health Department that a total of 14 new cases of Covid-19 have been confirmed in the town of Amherst in the last 24 hours, which brings the total to 30 new cases since last Friday. Based on this significant increase in case count, the Amherst Regional Public Schools will postpone Phase 1 students’ return to in-person learning scheduled for tomorrow. We understand that this change will present challenges for some of our ARPS Phase 1 families and share in their disappointment at this delay. As always, the health and safety of our students and staff are our top priority in determining when to bring them back into the physical classroom. More information about a potential new Phase 1 return date will be shared by this Friday, October 2 once public health authorities have clearer metrics and information.
I am sorry for the unfortunate timing of this change of plans, but given the new public health information received this morning, and in consultation with the Amherst Health Department, I determined that this decision was in the best interest of our students, staff, and families.
Sincerely,
Oct 12: Indigenous Peoples Day (No School)
Nov 3: All Teachers Curriculum/Work Day (No School) Election Day
Nov 11: Veterans Day (Observed) (No School)
Nov 25-27: Thanksgiving Break
Dec 16: PreK-12 Early Release (12:00 secondary/1:20 elementary)
Dec 21-Jan 1 : Winter Break
Jan 6: Three Kings Day (No School)
Jan 18: MLK Holiday (No School)
Jan 27 & 28: MS/HS Early Dismissal (HS Exams)
Jan 29: All Teacher Curriculum/Work Day (No School)
Feb 15-19: Winter Break
Feb 24: PreK-12 Early Release (12:00 secondary/1:20 elementary)
Mar 10: PreK-12 Early Release (12:00 secondary/1:20 elementary)
Mar 17: All Teachers Curriculum/Work Day (No School)
Mar 24: PreK-12 Early Release (12:00 secondary/1:20 elementary)
Apr 2: Good Friday (No School—Budgetary Reasons)
Apr 14: PreK-12 Early Release (12:00 secondary/1:20 elementary)
Apr 19-23: Spring Break
May 12: PreK-12 Early Release (12:00 secondary/1:20 elementary)
May 31: Memorial Day (No School)
June 19″ Juneteenth Holiday
June 24: Last day of school (no snow days are included; all inclement weather days will be distance learning)
The Town of Amherst and the Amherst Municipal Affordable Housing Trust Fund announce the availability of Round Two for short-term emergency rental assistance available for Amherst renters experiencing a loss or reduction of income due to COVID-19. Rental assistance is available for up to 3 months.
Eligible households:
For more information and to fill out a pre-application, please visit Community Action Pioneer Valley’s website at www.communityaction.us/amherstrentalassistance
Applicants will be contacted after completing the online pre-application to complete a full application and submit the required documentation.
See the Community Action website for more information
For questions, or to obtain a paper application, please contact Community Action Pioneer Valley at 413-475-1570
Click here for Flyer in English and Espanol
La ciudad de Amherst y el Fondo Fiduciario de Vivienda Asequible anuncian la segunda ronda de asistencia de emergencia a corto plazo con renta; disponible para los residentes de Amherst que están experimentando pérdida o reducción de ingresos económicos a causa del COVID-19. La asistencia será disponible hasta por 3 meses.
Hogares Elegibles:
Para más información y aplicar en línea, por favor visite el sitio web de Community Action Pioneer Valley www.communityaction.us/amherstrentalassistance
Los aplicantes serán contados después de completar su pre-aplicación en línea, para completar la aplicación final, y entregar la documentación requerida. Ver el sitio de web de Community Action para más información.
Para preguntas, o para obtener una aplicación de papel, por favor contacte a Community Action Pioneer Valley at 413-475-1570.
Tuesdays, October 6, 13, 20 & 27 from 5:00 – 6:00 pm
Know some German and want a fun space to practice? Join our German Comic Buchclub! A collaboration with the UMass German Department, this weekly meeting is a fun way to learn more about German language and culture. You are welcome to attend one or all of the sessions, and all levels are welcome!
For ages 11-17.
Please pre-register and you will be emailed the Zoom link.
The counselors at ARHS have been working on ways to be more accessible and interactive with students and families. We are excited to present our Google website: Guidance Virtual Office. Through this website, students and families can make appointments with us and find a whole range of resources and links both on the cover page with Crystal Garrity, the counseling secretary, and by entering each counseling office.
Lisa Zephyr, ARHS School Counselor and Department Head
*To make an appointment with Lisa, please use this link and include the topic of the meeting, thanks! Link: calendly.com/zephyrl
Time: 9:00 AM - 10:30 AM
Location: Virtual Meeting: https://meet.google.com/dhy-wywm-rwd or by phone: 617-675-4444? PIN: ?909 286 087 0262?#
ARPS Special Education Parent Advisory Council Meeting (SEPAC), Representing: Pelham Elementary, Amherst Elementary, and Amherst Regional Schools as well as students out of district. Executive Board Meeting.
1. Approve Minutes
2. Updates from Dr. Brady, Director of Student Services/Special Education
3. Updates from School Committee Liaisons
4. Results from SEPAC survey
5. 2020-21 Event Planning
6. Future Agenda Planning
7. Public Comment.
Tuesday Sept 29 7:15 PM
Google Meet: meet.google.com/rot-ncsn-ejq
Meeting Agenda
Introductions
Individual School Updates
Election of President, Vice President, Treasurer, Secretary, Officers
Annual Taxes and State Filings Update
Group Fundraisers: Wi-Fi Hotspots wrap up; UMACC (United Way), Giving Tuesday, Florence Bank, Amazon Smile; Flyer in Superintendent’s newsletter for small fundraisers that we all all do
Other Business not anticipated by the chair
The Amherst Regional Public Schools Parent Guardian Organization (ARPS PGO) is a Registered 501(c)3 Massachusetts Charity encompassing the individual PGOs of the Amherst Regional High and Middle Schools, Crocker Farm and Wildwood Elementary.
Our mission is to support the education of children within our schools through fundraising, supplemental programming and volunteer efforts. We help build community by fostering relationships among the schools, parents, teachers and staff.
If so, every time you shop at any Stop & Shop using your rewards card or phone # you will earn A+ Points. These become cash for our school — at no cost to you!
There are two easy ways to participate:* Sign in or create an account at stopandshop.com* Go to My Account* Select Rewards and Programs* You may choose two schools – or just pick ARHS 😊
Or call 877-366-2668 option #1 and sign up to support ARHS by using your phone number – no need to find your S&S rewards card!
If you signed up in the past you don’t need to renew but may want to confirm your selections. Questions? Contact Ellen Lindsey, PGO Treasurer, at ellenlindsey@gmail.com.
If your high school student did not take an AP exam in Spring 2020 and you are entitled to a refund, email Judi DellaMarco in the ARHS office with the following information.
Please be sure to answer all questions.
This request will be verified and submitted for payment.
Thank you for your cooperation and patience.
Hello Seniors! Your LAST First Week of High School – Whoo Hooo!
I hope you had a solid first week of school (well almost first week). You know what you are in for anyways…
Here’s what I have for you this week:
Maintaining Your Sanity As You Plan for the Future
As you get underway with your classes, and suddenly realize that you have one more year of high school, work on taking care of yourselves. Here’s some wonderful advice from my fav, The College Essay Guy – https://www.collegeessayguy.com/blog/coronavirus-self-care
The SAT is Dead, Long Live the SAT!
At this point the vast majority of colleges and universities are test-optional (www.fairtest.org – here’s the link!). Some of you watched siblings, and older students agonize and/or celebrate their performance on this 2 hour and 45 minute test. This rite of passage is not an issue for the Class of 2021. This is a hard truth for some of you; but it is time to let the SAT/ACT go (some of you actually might be doing cartwheels!). ARHS will not be offering the SAT during the month of September or October. As you read this, admissions reps are working to create evaluations that are not test score driven, and they are looking more closely at your academic GPA, courseload, activities and recommendations. It is possible that “demonstrated interest” is going to be more of a factor, so make sure you visit virtually and take on opportunities to interview when they exist. College admissions officers are evaluating you in the context of a pandemic, so they know the internship at the hospital is not available – activities are going to look different as well. Please don’t travel across state lines just to take the SAT or ACT or Subject Tests. Know that this is true for seniors all over the world!
College Admissions Rep Visits Begin September 28th
Be sure to list the schools that you are interested in on your Naviance account (even remotely interested!), and you will receive notifications when they schedule.
BE SURE TO CHECK YOUR MESSAGES ON A REGULAR BASIS!
Steps:
1. Log in to Naviance
2. Click the “Colleges” tab at the top and go to “Research Colleges.”
3. Select “College Visits” from the menu that appears.
4. Scroll through the list to find the college visits you want to attend. Click “details” for more info, or “Register” to register for the meeting.
5. Alert your teacher if you will be missing class at that time.
Here’s a link to a video tutotrial – https://drive.google.com/file/d/1eFw_GZpCCEDgIyvDB-VUNkScLnE_HRWZ/view?usp=sharing
Senior Life After ARHS Meetings – Scheduling Begins September 28th
Time to meet with your Friendly Neighborhood College and Career Advisor. Talk about your Life After ARHS plans. A parent or guardian is required to join you for this meeting, so plan accordingly. Regardless of your post-graduation plans, I want to meet with you so that I can support you, and give you the resources you need to make a wise decision for yourself. Stay Tuned – Instructions for Signing Coming Soon
Teacher Recommendations
If you requested your teacher recommendations during your junior year, great. Make sure that you have listed the teachers in Naviance. If you have not requested your recommendations from your junior year teachers, all is not lost. It is important to reach out to the teachers and have a Plan B, and Plan C, in the event that they aren’t available. If you are applying regular decision, consider making a great impression during the first months of school and asking a teacher from your senior year!
If you need support, reach out to your school counselor, me, or Ms. Garrity
October 1st Begins the FAFSA Season
October 1st marks the first day that seniors can submit the FAFSA. This is the form required to apply for financial aid, and merit based scholarships by colleges. Your parents or guardians can use taxes from the “prior prior year” – two tax seasons back. Both you and your parents/guardians should EACH create your FSA ID (link) as an important first step (if you have siblings who attended college, your parent/guardian doesn’t have to create a new one). Here’s a great video explaining: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K7ihhGk8mCY. We’ll be offering FAFSA support in October with MEFA (https://www.mefa.org/blog/the-fafsa-step-by-step), stay tuned.
Financial Aid Focus
Jack Kent Cooke Scholarship – October 30th (Need Based) The Cooke College Scholarship Program is an undergraduate scholarship program available to high-achieving high school seniors with financial need who seek to attend and graduate from the nation’s best four-year colleges and universities. https://www.jkcf.org/our-scholarships/college-scholarship-program/
UNIGO Scholarships – Open an account and begin your search! https://www.unigo.com/scholarships/our-scholarships
Two Podcast to Check Out
College List Builder & The Myth of Fit (Full Episode) | The College Essay Guy Podcast https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aHnWo1Wowd0
College List Hacking: Better Fit, Less Time, More Fun (Full Episode) | The College Essay Guy Podcast https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZTp-Z3bKdL8
The College Checklist Podcast – How to Conduct Virtual College Visits https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/how-to-conduct-virtual-college-visits/id848902813?i=1000489816094
Sincerely,
Your Friendly Neighborhood College and Career Counselor, Deidre Cuffee-Gray
phone – 413 362-1720
email – cuffee-grayd@arps.org
(email is best these days…)
Sept 28- Yom Kippur- Early Release
Sept 29: ARPS PGO Public Meeting (7:15pm)
Oct 2: SEPAC Meeting (9:00-10:30am)
Oct 12: Indigenous Peoples Day (No School)
Nov 3: All Teachers Curriculum/Work Day (No School)
Nov 11: Veterans Day (Observed) (No School)
Nov 25-27: Thanksgiving Break
Dec 16: PreK-12 Early Release (12:00 secondary/1:20 elementary)
Dec 21-Jan 1 : Winter Break
Jan 6: Three Kings Day (No School)
Jan 18: MLK Holiday (No School)
Jan 27 & 28: MS/HS Early Dismissal (HS Exams)
Jan 29: All Teacher Curriculum/Work Day (No School)
Feb 15-19: Winter Break
Feb 24: PreK-12 Early Release (12:00 secondary/1:20 elementary)
Mar 10: PreK-12 Early Release (12:00 secondary/1:20 elementary)
Mar 17: All Teachers Curriculum/Work Day (No School)
Mar 24: PreK-12 Early Release (12:00 secondary/1:20 elementary)
Apr 2: Good Friday (No School—Budgetary Reasons)
Apr 14: PreK-12 Early Release (12:00 secondary/1:20 elementary)
Apr 19-23: Spring Break
May 12: PreK-12 Early Release (12:00 secondary/1:20 elementary)
May 31: Memorial Day (No School)
June 19″ Juneteenth Holiday
June 24: Last day of school (no snow days are included; all inclement weather days will be distance learning)
The Amherst Regional High School Parent/Guardian Organization (ARHS PGO) welcomes you to the 2020-2021 Academic Year. We are a volunteer group of parents and guardians, and invite you to join us!
The mission of the ARHS PGO is to:
Evening Coffees with Principal Sadiq and Others
The ARHS PGO regularly invites the principal and other guest speakers to present on a wide variety of relevant topics. Q&As are a scheduled as part of these sessions. Our first coffee will be announced in the upcoming weeks.
PGO Weekly Newsletter
Our weekly Friday AM email newsletter will inform you about upcoming events, deadlines, news and more. We welcome the submission of information that is helpful to the ARHS community. All families who register students at ARHS prior to August 22 are automatically subscribed. You can sign up to receive the newsletter via email at arhspgonews@gmail.com. The newsletter can also be accessed from the front page of the ARHS website or at www.arhsparentcenter.org.
Volunteer!
The PGO is a volunteer organization and we need your help for just a few hours a month. Please consider being a blog editor (2 hours /month), Grants Committee (twice a year for 4-6 hours over a semester) or PGO secretary (2 hours/month). Interested? Email us at arhspgoboard@gmail.com.
Please also consider making an online donation to the PGO by going to www.arhsparentcenter.org and clicking on the donation tab.
Thank you in advance for your help!
The ARHS PGO Board
The ARHS Theater Company’s Fall Season is Here! Pandemic or no, there are still ways to safely make theater at ARHS, and we are looking forward to welcoming new and returning students alike into our three-show season this fall. Interested students should attend our next meeting, this Friday, September 18 at 3:30pm via Zoom.
Please join the Theater Company meeting at this link: bit.ly/becharhs (password is “bech”).
We’ll share info about the fall season, including our first on-site meeting and audition days on Monday, 9/21 and Tuesday, 9/22. No experience is needed and we welcome students from all backgrounds to make a home with this wonderful group. Contact Mr. Bechtold with questions at bechtolj@arps.org.
All students who still need to pick up their ChromeBook, Textbook, or other school materials for their 1st Semester or 1st Quarter classes, someone will be at the school for you to do that between 3:00pm-5:00pm, Monday (9/21) – Friday (9/25).
ALSO, if you picked up supplies for a class you no longer have because you just changed your schedule, please return those materials sometime between 3:00pm-5:00pm, Monday (9/21) – Friday (9/25). If you have any questions please send them to arhsoffice@arps.org or call 413-362-1700. This message has been sent directly to students as well. Thanks and take care.
Principal Sadiq
Tryout dates and times: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1q00Zi8SCQFtQv6Ir6qFZAQEMwRrSo-6G4sN13TsMmKM/edit?usp=sharing
This schedule can change! Please register to receive updates from the coaches. Remember to wear a mask!
| SPORT | TRYOUT DATES AND TIMES MS= Middle School otherwise all practices are at the high school | PRACTICE DAYS & TIMES MS= Middle School otherwise all practices are at the high school |
| Boys Cross Country | First Day→ Friday September 18th 3:15pm-4:40 | All weekdays at 3:15 PM |
| Girls Cross Country | First Day→ Friday September 18th 3:20pm-4:40pm | Monday 6:40 – 8:00 AMTuesday 3:20 – 4:40 PMWednesday 3:20 – 4:40 PMThursday 6:40 – 8:00 AMFriday 3:20 – 4:40 PM |
| Middle School Cross Country | First Day→ Monday September 21st 3:15-4:15pm (MS)Second Day→ Tuesday September 22nd 3:15-4:30pm (MS) | Coach will communicate practice times via email |
| Field Hockey | First Day→ Monday September 21st3:15pm-4:40pmSecond Day→ Tuesday September 22nd 3:15pm-4:40pm | Coach will communicate practice times via email |
| Football | First Day→ Friday September 18th4:30pm-5:50pm | Monday, Tuesday, Thursday 4:30pm-5:50pm |
| Girls Soccer | First Day→ Monday September 21st 3:15pm-4:35pmSecond Day→ Tuesday September 22nd 3:15pm-4:35pmThird Day→ Wednesday September 23rd (MS) 3:15pm-4:40pm | Coach will communicate practice times via email |
| Boys Soccer | First Day→ Friday September 18th2:30-2:45pm 11th/12th Grade Player registration 2:45-4:05pm 11th/12th Grade Try-Out 4:30-4:45pm 9th/10th Grade Player registration4:45-6:05pm 9th/10th Grade Try-Out Second Day→ Saturday September 19th3:15-4:35pm Group 1 (Groups to be communicated by coaches)4:50-6:05pm Group 2 (Groups to be communicated by coaches)Third Day→ Monday September 21st (MS) 3:15-4:35pm Group 1 (Groups to be communicated by coaches)4:50-6:05pm Group 2 (Groups to be communicated by coaches) | Coach will communicate practice times via email |
| High School VolleyballNote: Volleyball field is outdoors behind the high school | First Day→ Friday September 18thEvery weekday at 3:15pm | Coach will communicate practice times via email |
| Middle School VolleyballNote: Volleyball field is outdoors behind the high school | First Day→ Friday September 18thEvery weekday at 3:15pm | Coach will communicate practice times via email |
If you have any issues with your ChromeBook, please go to the Student Help Desk: https://forms.gle/3PEQmDn7i2e7febf8 and fill out the form.
If so, every time you shop at any Stop & Shop using your rewards card or phone # you will earn A+ Points. These become cash for our school — at no cost to you!
There are two easy ways to participate:* Sign in or create an account at stopandshop.com* Go to My Account* Select Rewards and Programs* You may choose two schools – or just pick ARHS 😊
Or call 877-366-2668 option #1 and sign up to support ARHS by using your phone number – no need to find your S&S rewards card!
If you signed up in the past you don’t need to renew but may want to confirm your selections. Questions? Contact Ellen Lindsey, PGO Treasurer, at ellenlindsey@gmail.com.
ARPS is continuing to provide breakfast and lunch for pick up at various locations throught town. All meals are free for anyone 18 and younger through 12/31/2020.
Deliveries will be made 9/16-9/30 on Monday, Wednesdays, and Fridays and continue to provide meals seven days a week. We are combining two sites The Brook and Mill Valley will be at Mill Valley and The Boulders and Southpoint will be at Southpoint.
DISTRIBUTION DETAILS:
Boulders/Southpoint 42 Southpoint (office entrance) – 11:45-12:00
Butternut Farm 12 Longmeadow Dr (office entrance) – 12:10-12:25
The Brook/Mill Valley 420 Riverglade Dr (office entrance)- 11:20-11:35
Colonial Village 81 Belchertown Rd (by mailboxes) – 12:10-12:25
ARHS 21 Mattoon Street (side entrance by cafeteria)- 11:15-12:15
Main Street 693 Main Street (behind Apt. 13) – 11:45-12:00
Mill District 75 Cowls Road (front of the building)- 12:10-12:25
North Village/Presidential 950 N. Pleasant St (bus stop at N.V. entrance)- 11:20 11:35
Olympia Drive 57 Olympia Drive (office entrance) – 11:45-12:00
Pomeroy Lane 34 Pomeroy Lane (community room) – 11:45-12:00
Rolling Green/Gatehouse Road 1 Rolling Green Dr (office entrance) – 11:20-11:35
Village Park 497 E. Pleasant St (office entrance)- 11:20-11:35
September 24th, 7:00 – 8:00pm
For families in the district with students on an IEP or 504
The event is hosted by the Special Education Parent Advisory Council (SEPAC) and is open to all in the community. Dr. Faye Brady, Director of Student Services, and JoAnn Smith, Student Services Administrator, will be in attendance along with others who support students. Not only will this be an opportunity for us to meet informally but also will allow SEPAC to share some of what we have planned for this school year. We welcome your thoughts and ideas!
RSVP if possible to sepac@arps.org or Facebook ARPS SEPAC-org
Phone Numbers (US)+1 617-675-4444 PIN: 272 446 940 1928#
For more information, please see the flyer:
As part of the distance learning model, ARPS will offer educational opportunities via a virtual platform such as Google Hangouts/Meets. Many of these platforms have the capability to capture video and sound within range of your child’s computer camera and/or microphone. Prior to engaging in virtual learning, ARPS wishes to clarify expectations around appropriate use of virtual technology for educational purposes as follows:
Sept 18- Fall Sports Start Date
Sept 24- SEPAC Meet and Greet- 7PM
Sept 28- Yom Kippur- Early Release
Oct 12: Indigenous Peoples Day (No School)
Nov 3: All Teachers Curriculum/Work Day (No School)
Nov 11: Veterans Day (Observed) (No School)
Nov 25-27: Thanksgiving Break
Dec 16: PreK-12 Early Release (12:00 secondary/1:20 elementary)
Dec 21-Jan 1 : Winter Break
Jan 6: Three Kings Day (No School)
Jan 18: MLK Holiday (No School)
Jan 27 & 28: MS/HS Early Dismissal (HS Exams)
Jan 29: All Teacher Curriculum/Work Day (No School)
Feb 15-19: Winter Break
Feb 24: PreK-12 Early Release (12:00 secondary/1:20 elementary)
Mar 10: PreK-12 Early Release (12:00 secondary/1:20 elementary)
Mar 17: All Teachers Curriculum/Work Day (No School)
Mar 24: PreK-12 Early Release (12:00 secondary/1:20 elementary)
Apr 2: Good Friday (No School—Budgetary Reasons)
Apr 14: PreK-12 Early Release (12:00 secondary/1:20 elementary)
Apr 19-23: Spring Break
May 12: PreK-12 Early Release (12:00 secondary/1:20 elementary)
May 31: Memorial Day (No School)
June 19″ Juneteenth Holiday
June 24: Last day of school (no snow days are included; all inclement weather days will be distance learning)
We are offering a Real World Math Class for middle school and high school age students.
Class Description:
Basics of everyday real world math.. Learn the basics of starting and running a profitable business with fun real world class exercises and projects. Areas to cover will include business investment, profitability, break-even point, business budgets.
Other topics include banks functions and purpose, interest (simple and compound), measurements including metric system using real work cooking examples. We will talk about budgeting; why it is important and how to live easily within budgets by incorporating real world projects. We will also discuss the topic of taxes, why they are deducted from paychecks, where do taxes go and what they are used for. Additional topics may be covered based on interests of the groups
Register Here:
The Complete list of Fall LSSE offerings can be viewed at: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1S6IjULDSaeRMm-VFzJgMbyOt8E0AKm6S/view?usp=sharing
Jones Library System
The Jones Library is offering contactless outdoor pickup of library materials 6 days a week while our buildings remain closed.
To borrow library materials, first place holds through the online catalog by visiting Joneslibrary.org and logging into your account. You may also call our Reference Staff at 413-259-3096 for assistance placing holds.
If you are unsure what you’d like to read, let us know and we’d be happy to select some things for you.
When your items arrive and are ready for you to pick up, we will email you instructions for how and when to pick them up. Currently, all materials will be outside in front of the library under a tent.
If you are an Amherst resident and cannot get to the library for any reason, please let me know and we can arrange a delivery for you.
The Munson Library in South Amherst is also offering outdoor pickup on Tuesday and Friday afternoons.
For more information, please visit https://www.joneslibrary.org/whilewereclosed
We hope to see you soon!
Pelham Library
The Pelham Free Public Library is open for contact-free materials pick-up
Check the online catalog for materials availability (see Notes below) and call (413.253.0657) or email (library.pelham@gmail.com) to make your request. You will be contacted to confirm and arrange a pick-up time. Some items, such as soft toys, will not be available for check-out.
Pickup hours are a reduced version of our regular hours, to allow for set-up and take-down, and will be rescheduled in case of rain.
Monday, Tuesday, Thursday: 3:30 – 6:30 p.m.
Wednesday: 2:00 – 6:30 p.m.
Friday: 10:30 – 11:30 a.m.
Saturday: 10:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.
Notes:
Leverett Library
Curbside pickup hours:
Saturdays 10am-1pm Tuesdays 3pm-6pm
Wednesdays 10am-12pm
Thursdays 3pm-6pm
Limited inter library ( CWMARS) delivery service resumes 7/20/20. Statewide delivery has not yet resumed.
You may place holds in the catalog again. Curbside hours still in place.
Give us a call at 413-548-9220, or email leverett@cwmars.org to arrange a pick up day.
Please see COVID-19 Updates for more information about our curbside service and current operations.
Shutesbury Library
CURBSIDE PICKUP
The Library is pleased to provide curbside pickup of Library materials.
HOW IT WORKS
