The Buzz June 2026
June 2026
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From the Superintendent's Desk |
Dear Carlisle Families,
It’s that time of year once again, when you might think things are ‘winding down’ at CPS, when, in fact, they are really ‘winding up’ : ) We are bursting with energy as we close out the 2025-2026 school year with an incredible lineup of classroom presentations, thrilling field trips, vibrant performances, and joyful community celebrations.
This week, our 8th graders are off to Washington, D.C., to explore the nation’s capital and create lifelong memories together prior to graduation on June 18th. Back on campus, our 3rd graders are bringing history to life with their Indigenous Museums on the plaza, and our talented Preschoolers are ready to shine at their annual Art Show. While our Kindergarten classes get ready for their end-of-year celebrations, we are also looking to the future! On the June 2nd early release day, we can’t wait to welcome our incoming students for our special “Growing into Kindergarten” event.
Looking ahead, on Friday, June 12th, the community will recognize PRIDE Month with Carlisle’s own PRIDE Celebration. This event is sponsored by the DEICAC, Gleason Public Library, COAHS, and The First Religious Society, in partnership with CPS, the CCHS Spectrum Club, and the CPS Pride Club. Come hear our amazing CPS Choir and Band students perform at Carlisle’s Race Amity Day Celebration taking place on Sunday, June 14th, from 1:00-4:00 PM on the Town Common. On Monday, June 22nd, the PTO will host Pops on the Plaza, a favorite Carlisle tradition. Students can enjoy a cool treat and celebrate the last full day of school with friends on the playground.
A special milestone is just around the corner as we prepare to celebrate the CPS 8th Grade Class of 2026. Our annual graduation ceremony, honoring the accomplishments of our graduating students and their families, will be held on Thursday, June 18, at 5:30 PM on the Plaza, weather permitting. We invite the entire CPS community to join us as we recognize and celebrate the achievements of the Class of 2026 and wish them well as they embark on their next chapter.
Additionally, I want to take a moment to Congratulate Marcella Pixley, our Drama Club Advisor, along with all the members of our Drama Club, as well as, the adults who support the Drama Club and their productions on the great success of their recent production of “A Midsummer Night’s Dream.” The entire production was outstanding and I am incredibly proud of everyone who contributed to the success of the production.
I also want to congratulate and thank Jeremy Behrle for all he has done for not only our Drama Club, but our entire school community. Jeremy has been an incredible supporter of both school and community drama productions, donating countless hours to productions and the maintenance and updating of our school auditorium. It was wonderful that our School Committee and our school community recognized Jeremy's significant contributions by naming the auditorium in his honor. We will now always be reminded of both Jeremy’s contributions and the importance of community service, whenever we attend an event in the Behrle Auditorium.
Finally, as this is my last letter for “The Buzz,” I wanted to take a moment to thank our entire school community for their support, patience, understanding, generosity and kindness over these past 10 years. It has been wonderful to be part of such a special community, and I am incredibly thankful to have had the opportunity to be part of the life of this special place and the students, families and staff who make it what it is
Warm regards,
Jim O’Shea
Superintendent
A celebration for Superintendent Jim O’Shea will take place on Monday, June 8 at 3:00 PM on the plaza. This community sendoff is open to the greater Carlisle community, so please feel free to spread the word and share the invitation with family, friends, and others who may want to join in celebrating Jim.
We would also love your help creating a meaningful keepsake for Jim. If you are able, please bring a small card or note sharing a favorite memory, a funny story, or a few kind words. The messages will be collected during the event.
Please use the link below to RSVP to the event.
Jim O'Shea's Community Sendoff 6/8/26
CARLISLE PUBLIC SCHOOL TO LAUNCH PARENTSQUARE
Carlisle Public School is excited to share that as part of our ongoing commitment to support your student’s success and improve communication for families we are making some changes this summer in how we connect with you.
In July, we are officially launching ParentSquare—a premier, all-in-one communication platform designed to bring our school community closer than ever before!
Why the change? We listened to you! We know that managing school updates can feel overwhelming, especially if you have multiple students. You asked for a streamlined, manageable way to stay informed, and the School Committee and administration team went to work to find the solution.
ParentSquare is going to streamline your experience by consolidating all school and district communications into one single, easy-to-use platform. No more hunting through multiple apps or cluttered inboxes!
Click here for an exciting 2-minute video introduction to ParentSquare!
This upgrade is all about creating a more consistent, efficient, and accessible connection between home and school. We can’t wait to roll this out in the coming weeks!
What’s next? Keep an eye on your inbox. We will be sharing details this month on how to set up your account and customize your notification preferences so you get information exactly when and how you want it.
Thank you for teaming up with CPS to make our school community stronger and more connected!
School Events and Information
SCHOOL CALENDAR
Click here to view and download the 2025-2026 calendar
Click here to view and download the 2026-2027 calendar (Note: First Day of School - Monday, August 31, 2026)
June LUNCH & BREAKFAST MENU
Click here to view the June 2026 Lunch menu
Click here to view the June 2026 Breakfast menu
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 sepac@carlislemapto.org. 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 Val Gransewicz, Director of Student Support Services, at vgransewicz@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 Val Gransewicz, Director of Student Support Services, at vgransewicz@carlisle.k12.ma.us or 978-369-3758.
MIDDLE SCHOOL PRINCIPAL FOR A DAY
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Thank you Sawyer Herweck, Grade 6, for serving as Middle School Principal on Friday, May 29th.
PHYSICAL EDUCATION ANNOUNCEMENTS
SNEAKERS for PE
Friendly reminder please make sure your child is ready for PE weekly with appropriate clothing and sneakers.
PE is Moving Outdoors!
PE classes will be held outside (weather permitting). To ensure everyone stays safe and has fun in the sun, please remember the following:
· Proper Footwear: Sneakers are required for safety on the grass and fields.
· Sun Protection: We recommend applying sunscreen before school or bringing a hat.
· Hydration: Don’t forget a labeled water bottle to stay hydrated!
· Layers: May mornings can still be chilly so wear layers so you can adjust as it warms up.
ANNUAL YEAR END CELEBRATION -- Thursday, June 4th @ 10:00 AM
Please join the PTO for coffee and conversation at our last meeting of the year, on June 4th in the CPS Community Room at 10am. We hope to see some new and familiar faces there!
POPS ON THE PLAZA -- MONDAY, JUNE 22ND @ 3:00 PM
Please visit carlislemapto.org for more information or to volunteer.
PTO SCHOOL SUPPLY KITS
Our PTO School Supply Store is open April 1 - July 1, 2026! Families can order grade-specific supply kits, including our new PreK kits. We are also offering optional Wish List kits for certain grades - carefully designed to be mindful of family budgets while giving teachers access to additional “nice to have” items that enhance the classroom experience. Take the stress out of back-to-school shopping and have supplies delivered directly to your child’s school. Every purchase supports teacher grants, student enrichment, and school-wide programs. Visit or online store at: http://1stdayschoolsupplies.
OLD HOME DAY ART AND CRAFT SHOW -- SATURDAY, JUNE 20, 2026
Please note that students are also able to drop off their entries in the Main Office of Carlisle Public School from June 1, 2026 through June 18, 2026.
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
Summer Reading 2026: Plant a Seed, Read!
Monday, June 29 through Sunday, August 23
Get ready for Summer Reading 2026! This year's theme is Plant a Seed, Read!
We have a brand-new reading challenge this year for grades K–8, featuring weekly reading raffles. Make sure you sign up to participate! We will have lots of fun events and activities happening over the summer. Make sure you check our website to see our full calendar of events, and look out for our Summer Reading brochure in the mail!
Note: Because the Library will be undergoing a renovation starting this summer, please make sure to check on the locations of each event. We hope to see you this summer!
CARLISLE PRIDE FESTIVAL -- Friday, June 12 | 3:00-6:00 PM
Come celebrate love, inclusion, and community at the Carlisle Pride Celebration on Friday, June 12, from 3:00-6:00 PM at the Carlisle Town Common & FRS Union Hall. Enjoy an afternoon featuring live music from local band The Local Ward, games and crafts, a FREE Kona Ice truck, photo booth, and a community speaking program. All are welcome as we gather to celebrate Pride and the vibrant spirit of Carlisle. Rain or Shine!
Sponsored by DEICAC, Gleason Public Library, COAHS, and The First Religious Society, with support from CPS, CCHS Spectrum Club, and CPS Pride Club.
This program is supported in part by a grant from the Carlisle Cultural Council, a local agency which is supported by Mass Cultural Council, a state agency.
CARLISLE RACE AMITY DAY POTLUCK & FESTIVAL -- Sunday, June 14 | 1:00-4:00 PM
Race Amity Day celebrates neighbors from different cultures, races, and backgrounds coming together to build friendship and community. This year's program will include live music, poetry, art, & other performances; kids' activities; games for young & old; and a bounce house. Bring a dish to share for the potluck!
FRIENDS OF THE LIBRARY BOOK SWAP -- Saturday, June 20 | 9:00 AM-12:00 PM
The Friends of the Gleason Public Library (FOGPL) are holding their annual Book Swap at the Highland Building Lawn on School Street on Saturday, June 20 as part of Carlisle's Old Home Day festivities. All books are free, however the Friends welcome donations to support Library programming (click here to donate online via Paypal, or Venmo @friends_22bedford)
This Book Swap will feature adult fiction, all genres of children's and teen books, and jigsaw puzzles.
Donations will only be accepted during designated drop-off hours:
Tuesday, June 16th, 3:15-6:00 PM
Wednesday, June 17th, 3:15-6:00 PM
Thursday, June 18th, 6:00-8:00 PM
For more events happening at Old Home Day, please visit http://www.carlisleohd.org/
ELEMENTARY AND YOUNGER
SUMMER READING KICKOFF PARTY -- Friday, June 26 | 12:00–2:00 PM
Join us on the Front Lawn to kick off our Summer Reading Program, "Plant a Seed, Read!"
We will provide popsicles, music, and bubbles—you bring the energy! There will be small goodie bags available for K–8 kids who will be participating in our Summer Reading Program.
Sign-ups for our Summer Reading Program will officially open on Monday, June 1st, and the first reading log will open on Monday, June 29th at 10:00 AM. We have a fun schedule ahead of us and we hope you will join us for this year's activities!
STUFFY SLEEPOVER -- Tuesday, June 23
Your stuffy wants an adventure! Drop them off for a sleepover at the library with Miss Jill anytime on Tuesday June 23rd, and pick them back up on Wednesday June 24th after 1:00 PM.
What will they do while they're here? Keep an eye out on our social media pages to see what they get up to after-hours! We'll have some photos posted around the Children's Room, too.
MASSACHUSETTS HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY PLANTMOBILE -- Tuesday, June 30
The Massachusetts Horticultural Society is bringing their Plantmobile to the library for two special art programs for elementary-aged kids!
*Location subject to change*
12:00-1:00 PM: Botanical Art (Grades 1–3)
Learn about the history of botanical art, how science is involved, and even get your own chance to create a plant-focused masterpiece! Registration for this event opens June 16.
1:30-2:30 PM Natural Dyes and Fabrics (Grades 4 & 5)
Learn about how plants are used to create clothes, art, and dyes, and what techniques have been used throughout history to hone this craft. You will get to create your own naturally dyed work of art! Registration for this event opens June 16.
LEGO CLUB (GRADES 1–4) -- Wednesday, June 17 | 4:00-6:00 PM
Kids in 1st-4th grade are invited to join us on the third Wednesday of each month for a drop-in LEGO Club!
You may bring in your own LEGO sets to work on but you are responsible for anything you bring in. We will have free-build LEGOs available for use.
STORY TIMES
Story times are drop-in and do not require registration.
Once Upon a Baby -- Tuesdays, June 2 & 9 | 10:30–11:00 AM
Once Upon a Baby is a 30-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 ages 0-2. Come prepared to sit on the floor one-on-one with your baby in your lap.
Wiggle Giggle Storytime -- Tuesdays, June 2 & 9 | 11:00-11:30 AM
Wiggle Giggle Toddler Storytime is a 30-minute interactive story time experience for our young library users and their caregiver. Join us for stories, songs, movement, and fun best suited for children ages 3+.
Tots and Tales -- Friday, June 12 | 10:30–11:15 AM
Tots and Tales is a story time designed for ages 0-6 that incorporates stories, songs, dances, finger rhymes, and lapsit bounces. Children will be able to interact with and learn from each other in this interactive story time.
MIDDLE SCHOOL
Teen Weekend Reading Kit -- Thursday, June 18 | 10:00 AM
Grab a kit that has everything you need for a book-lover's 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 little bookish accessory, and a hot beverage to make at home. Registration is required to reserve your kit, and pickup will be Thursday, June 18 through Monday, June 22. These kits are for grades 7-12. Teen Weekend Reading Kits are sponsored by the Friends of the Gleason Public Library.
The Great Race at Theatre III -- June 13th, 14th, 20th and 21st
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Child's Play @ Theatre III is an award-winning program in Acton which produces high-quality theater, performed by adults, for audiences aged preschool - elementary school. For 2026, we are cooperating with the Acton Chinese Language School on the New England premiere of The Great Race: The Story of the Chinese Zodiac by Reiko Ho. We have been fortunate to work with experts in traditional Chinese movement, music, and martial arts to stage this joyous, action-packed retelling of one of the most beloved tales in Chinese folklore -- the origin story of the Chinese Zodiac. The play, which is appropriate for ages preschool and up, will run June 13-14 and 20-21. Tickets are $10 in advance and $12 at the door. You can fine more about the production here: Theatre Ⅲ - The Great Race |
MILLDAM NURSERY SCHOOL DUCKY FAIR -- Sunday, June 14th
Milldam Nursery School Ducky Fair at Emerson Field on Sunday, June 14th, 10:00 AM-12:00 PM. Free family event with train rides, crafts, games and more! Open to all. Visit our website to learn more.
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Next Buzz Issue
This is the last issue of The Buzz for the 2025-2026 school year. The next issue of The Buzz will be published in September 2026. Please email your submissions to Mary O'Regan at moregan@carlisle.k12.ma.us by 9:00 AM on Monday, August 31, 2026. Please attach information to the email in a Word file. Thank you!
