The Buzz April 2025
April 2025
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From theSuperintendent's Desk |
Dear Carlisle Families,
April has arrived, bringing with it both the beautiful weather and the excitement that often accompanies spring in Carlisle. The longer, brighter days are a welcome change, offering us more opportunities to spend time outdoors with family, friends, and neighbors.
This spring we are pleased to be able to offer STEAM courses again for our elementary students. The course selection has expanded to include both public speaking and Spanish along with the cursive writing and art courses offered during previous sessions. Courses are starting soon. Spring sports have also kicked off, and we wish our volleyball and ultimate frisbee teams a successful spring season.
April marks the beginning of our state assessments, the Massachusetts Comprehensive Assessment System (MCAS). Students in grades 3-8 will be participating in assessments in ELA and Math throughout April and May. Additionally, Science assessments for grades 5 and 8 will take place in May, followed by the Civics for grade 8 in early June. While these assessments do interrupt the regular school day, they do provide us with valuable data. I understand that everyone has their own feelings regarding these assessments but it is worth pointing out that they do provide us with some important insight and valuable data with regard to the work we do and the development of our students. Principals will share more information about the testing schedule, which will also be available on the District Calendar on the website.
April also brings the school vacation, with no classes from April 21st through April 25th. During April vacation, we observe Patriots’ Day on Monday, April 21st. This year marks the 250th anniversary of the battle of Lexington and Concord with multiple events planned in Carlisle and the surrounding communities over the next few weeks. This is a wonderful opportunity for students and families to explore and learn more about the history of Carlise. For more details on the anniversary and events visit the Patriot’s Day 250 website. Also, as a reminder, there is an Early Release day on Wednesday, April 9th for faculty and staff professional development.
For those students, and perhaps some parents, already looking forward to the end of the school year, with only one snow day this year our last day of school is scheduled for Tuesday, June 17th. This day will be an early release day. The 8th Grade Graduation Ceremony is officially set for Thursday, June 12th. More information about the graduation ceremony will be shared in the coming weeks.
I hope you are able to enjoy the spring weather and have a relaxing break.
Warm Regards,
Jim O’Shea
Superintendent
School Events and Information
SCHOOL CALENDAR
Click here to view and download the 2024-2025 calendar
Click here to view and download the 2025-2026 calendar
APRIL LUNCH & BREAKFAST MENU
Click here to view the April 2025 Lunch menu
Click here to view the April 2025 Breakfast menu
PARENT PLACEMENT FORM FOR 2025-2026
The Parent Placement Form for placement for students currently in grades K-4 is now available. You may complete the Parent Placement Google Form online here. Alternatively, you may turn in a hard copy of the Parent Placement Form to the main office, available here.
Forms are due by Friday, April 25, 2025. Please note that this information will be shared with your student's teaching team.
KINDERGARTEN INFORMATION NIGHT - THURSDAY, MAY 1, 2025
Parents and guardians of children eligible for the Carlisle Public School’s 2025-2026 kindergarten class are cordially invited to attend our Kindergarten Information Night on Thursday, May 1, 2025 at 6:30 PM in the Corey Auditorium at Carlisle Public Schools, 83 School Street. This is a parent/guardian event only.
At this event, our Elementary School Principal, Kindergarten Teachers, School Nurse, and Elementary School Psychologist will make presentations and you will have an opportunity to ask questions. Also at this event, we will be collecting the following required registration documents:
- copy of your child’s birth certificate
- copy of your child’s latest physical and immunization records
- copy of proof of residency (utility bill, tax bill, mortgage statement, rental agreement, P&S agreement)
- full day kindergarten tuition payment ($2,550 payable to “Town of Carlisle”)
- signed Preschool Release of Student Information
- completed Early Screening Inventory - Parent Questionnaire
If you have any questions or concerns, please contact Linda Cavallo-Murphy, Registrar, at lcavallomurphy@carlisle.k12.ma.us.
SPRING ATHLETICS
Spring athletics started Monday March 31st.
Check out the Athletic Website for game schedules - Carlisle Athletic Page
- *Volleyball in the gym 3:00-4:15 PM Monday-Thursday
- *Ultimate Frisbee on the Spalding Field, 3:00-4:15 PM Monday-Thursday
- *Cross Country on Spalding Field, 3:00-4:00pm Monday, Wednesday and Thursdays
NEW ELEMENTARY CROSS COUNTRY PILOT PROGRAM
We invite elementary students to join Mrs. Carmel and the middle school Cross Country team for training sessions on Wednesdays from 3:00 to 4:00 PM. This is an inclusive program, and we will gather on April 30, May 7, May 21, and May 28 at Spalding Field. Please remember to bring sneakers and water.
For any inquiries, please contact Lynne Carmel at lcarmel@carlisle.k12.ma.us
To register: Elementary spring cross country
PHYSICAL EDUCATION
Spring is in the air! We will be going to the field for classes after April vacation! Please plan accordingly.
Important Information Regarding KINDERGARTEN REGISTRATION for the 2025-26 School Year
All children who will be 5 years of age as of September 1, 2025 are encouraged to register for kindergarten at the Carlisle Public Schools. Please contact Linda Cavallo-Murphy, Registrar, at lcavallomurphy@carlisle.k12.ma.us or 978-369-6550 and provide the following information: student’s full legal name, date of birth, home address, parent/guardian name(s), phone number(s), and email address(es). If your child is eligible for kindergarten but you are making different plans, please let us know that as well. Thank you!
BACK UP PLANS
Please make sure you have back up plans that your child is aware of, should after school activities suddenly be canceled. During cancelations or emergencies, the Main Office phones are usually busy and not available to call home or relay messages. Please go over with your child ahead of time what they should do in case their activity is canceled.
CARLISLE SEPAC
Carlisle has a robust SEPAC (Special Education Parent Advisory Council). The SEPAC is a resource for support, advice, and navigation for families in our district. They can be reached by email at carlislemasepac@gmail.com. You can also sign up for their email list to be kept in the loop on events and information for families with special needs.
CHILD FIND NOTICE
Carlisle Public Schools, is dedicated to meeting the needs of all students. In accordance with IDEA and Massachusetts Chapter 71B, all public schools must provide special education for children determined to be educationally disabled. The law requires a school district to identify such children from age 3 to 21 years of age and applies to all children, including those in non-public schools, pre-schools, and hospital settings. In addition, children of migrant or homeless families are also entitled to public education. The Carlisle Public Schools is responsible for students from age 3 throughout their 8th grade year.
Parents or service providers with concerns that a child might have an educationally disabling condition are encouraged to contact Student Support Services. Carlisle Public Schools will provide parent support and arrange for the screening and evaluation of any student who is not able to progress effectively in general education due to a disability.
For more detailed information about the policies, procedures, and services available at Carlisle Public Schools for special education, please contact Lori Bruce, Director of Student Support Services, at lbruce@carlisle.k12.ma.us or 978-369–3758.
Are you without a home or do you know a homeless family?
EDUCATIONAL RIGHTS OF HOMELESS CHILDREN
Carlisle Public Schools is committed to ensuring that any student who meets the criteria of a homeless student is protected under the rights set forth by the McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act. This federal law is designed to ensure that homeless children and youth have the same access as other children to public education, including public preschool programs. To obtain a brochure or the Homeless Education Manual, or if you have any questions about the McKinney-Vento Act, please contact Lori Bruce, Director of Student Support Services, at lbruce@carlisle.k12.ma.us or 978-369-3758.
ORDER YOUR 1ST DAY SCHOOL SUPPLY KITS FOR THE 2025 - 2026 SCHOOL YEAR
Get a head start on the 2025-2026 school year! Our School Supply kits are now available for purchase. Order conveniently online April 1 through July 1, 2025, and ensure your student has all the necessary supplies without the hassle of shopping.
By purchasing or donating a kit, you are supporting our PTO grants and enrichment programs.
Please help us spread the word! If you know new families in town, let them know about this convenient fundraiser so they don’t miss out on an easy way to prepare for the school year.
Our online store link: https://1stdayschoolsupplies.
Link to Ultimate Frisbee Tournament Registration
Other Items of Interest
Gleason Public Library
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For all registrations, please visit gleasonlibrary.org/events. For more information about any of these events, email childrens@gleasonlibrary.org.
SPECIAL EVENTS
ANNUAL POETRY CONTEST
The Gleason Public Library is hosting its annual poetry contest in celebration of National Poetry Month this April. This year’s theme is “Wonder.” All ages are welcome. Winners will be selected (at the judges’ discretion) for the following age groups: ages 8 and younger, ages 9-12, ages 13-17, and ages 18+. First place winners will receive a $100 cash prize and recognition at a poetry festival and awards ceremony at 2:00 PM on Saturday, May 17th. First place poems will be printed in the Carlisle Mosquito.
For contest guidelines and more information, please visit our website.
STARGAZING PARTY AT BANTA-DAVIS FIELD - Tuesday, April 1 | 7:30–9:00 PM
Join us for an evening of stargazing at Banta-Davis Field! We'll go stargazing with Kelly Beatty, Senior Editor at Sky & Telescope, and members of the Amateur Telescope Makers of Boston. They will bring along their telescopes to get a great look at the night sky. This program is for all ages (recommended for ages 5+). We will need clear skies, so please check the Library website for updates. Register online at https://carlislema.myrec.com/info/activities/default.aspx
Sponsored by the Carlisle Recreation Dept, the Gleason Public Library, the Amateur Telescope Makers of Boston, and the Aldrich Astronomical Society.
CRAFT SUPPLY SWAP - Saturday, April 26 | 1:00–4:00 PM
Calling all Makers! Do you have leftover supplies from previous crafts? Would you like free craft supplies to explore a new hobby? Bring new or gently used arts & crafts materials to swap for new-to-you supplies! Only arts and crafts–related items will be accepted. Suggested items include yarn, decorative paper, fine art paper, fabric scraps, paints, patterns, tools, beads, craft storage, and other arts and crafts materials. Donations are not required to participate in the afternoon swap. We are unable to accept office supplies as part of this craft supply swap.
Please drop off your craft supplies at the Gleason Public Library on Saturday morning between 10:00 AM and 1:00 PM then shop for “new-to-you” ones in the afternoon between 1:00–4:00 PM. Please bring along a reusable tote to carry the craft supply items home.
Elementary and younger
ALPACA STORY TIME WITH HARVARD ALPACA RANCH - Friday, April 4 | 10:30 AM
Join us on our front lawn for an alpaca story time! We’ll read a fun alpaca tale with Miss Jenn, then visit with two alpacas from the nearby Harvard Alpaca Ranch. This story time is designed for children ages 3 through 6. Please bring along a blanket or low camp chair to sit on. Register on our website to reserve your spot.
PLAYDOUGH PALOOZA (AGES 3–8) - Thursday, April 24 | 10:30–11:30 AM
Come play with colorful playdough! We have special tools and toys to squish, cut, stamp, and roll the dough. Please be advised that the playdough does include gluten.
READ TO RUDY - Friday, April 25 | 3:30–4:30 PM
Come to the library to read to Rudy, a certified reading therapy dog! Read to a dog programs help kids develop literacy skills and build confidence & self-esteem. Rudy is looking forward to sharing a favorite book with you! Therapy dogs provide warm and non-judgmental reading companions for new or experienced readers. Children, ages 5-10, will enjoy one-on-one time reading aloud to this gentle, comforting, 6-year-old black labrador as they practice their fluency and strengthen their confidence in reading. Children may bring their own book from home or choose to read one from the library collection. Register for your 15-minute session on our website, and please arrive 5-10 minutes before it is scheduled to begin.
Rudy is a member of Dog B.O.N.E.S. Therapy Dogs of Massachusetts.
STORY TIMES
Baby Lapsit - Tuesdays, April 1–May 20 | 10:30–11:00 AM
Baby Lapsit is a 20-minute interactive story time experience for our youngest library users and their caregiver. Join us for stories, songs, rhymes, and bounces that are developmentally appropriate for children from birth to when they start walking. Come prepared to sit on the floor one-on-one with your baby in your lap. This program is designed for newborn through pre-walking baby. Please register for each session individually.
Toddler Story Time - Tuesdays, April 1–May 20 | 11:00–11:30 AM
Toddler Story Time is a 30-minute interactive story time experience for our young library users and their caregivers. Join us for stories, songs, movement, and a sensory activity or craft that are developmentally appropriate for children from 15 months to 3 years of age. Please register for each session individually. Please bring along an old T-shirt for your child to wear as an art smock.
Spring Preschool Story Time - Fridays, April 11–May 23 | 10:30–11:15 AM
Join us Friday mornings from 10:30 to 11:15 AM for a fun story time. This event is full of interactive stories, rhymes, fingerplays, songs and a small craft. Designed for children ages 3 to 6, Preschool Story Time promotes reading readiness and early literacy skills. Please register for each session individually.
KIDS BOOK CLUBS
1st and 2nd Grade Book Club: Oris and Timble: The Beginning by Kate DiCamillo - Tuesday, April 1, 3:45–4:30 PM
This book club is currently full. If you would like to be placed on the waiting list, please contact childrens@gleasonlibrary.org.
3rd and 4th Grade Book Club: Belly Up by Stuart Gibbs - Thursday, April 10, 4:00–4:45 PM
This book club is currently full. If you would like to be placed on the waiting list, please contact childrens@gleasonlibrary.org.
For Middle School
MIDDLE SCHOOL BOOK CLUB - Thursday, April 3 | 4:00 PM
Come for a book discussion and activity! Each month we will read a book and meet at the Library to talk about it, then we will do a short activity or craft. This month's book is A Corner of White by Jaclyn Moriarty. Registration is required; participants only need to register once for the entire school year. For students in grades 5 through 8.
EARLY RELEASE DAY MOVIE - Wednesday, April 9 | 1:15 PM
Middle schoolers can join us in the Hollis Room every Early Release Day at 1:15 PM for a movie and snacks! This month’s movie is rated PG and has a runtime of 93 minutes. Early Release Day movies are sponsored by the Friends of the Gleason Public Library.
TEEN WEEKEND READING KIT - Friday, April 18 | 10:00 AM
Grab a kit that has everything you need for a book-lover's long weekend. Each kit will include a random YA novel for you to keep (genres and reading/maturity levels will vary), a craft or activity, a snack, a bookmark, and something to sip on. Registration is required to reserve your kit. These kits are for students in grades 7-12. Sponsored by the Friends of the Gleason Public Library.
SUMMER MUSIC ENSEMBLES WITH IMSCC!
Summer is coming and IMSCC has a variety of summer music programs! The following ensembles are registering now:
- Orchestra Summer Program with Anna Anderson
- String Chamber Music Ensemble with Sargis Karapetyan
- Trombone Choir with Alexei Doohovskoy
You can browse the ensembles and register here.
It's not too late to start private lessons this spring - fill out the inquiry form to begin the enrollment process.
Summer Lessons start June 23 - enrollment opens at the end of April, stay tuned...
CCYL GIRLS 1ST/2ND GRADE SPRING LACROSSE
Sundays: 10:00-11:15 AM on the CCHS Upper Grass Field - 8 week in-house program, First session April 6th (weather pending)
Players will be grouped by age + ability within the session, to make it a great experience for all
REGISTER HERE: Visit the CCYL homepage ---> Hover over REGISTER (top right) ---> Select GIRLS REGISTRATION (direct link HERE)
The next issue of The Buzz will be published in May 2025. Please email your submissions to Mary O'Regan at moregan@carlisle.k12.ma.us by 9:00 AM on Wednesday, April 30, 2025. Please attach information to the email in a Word file. Thank you!