Bancroft Bulletin

Wednesday, May 6th is an early release day. All students will be released at 12:15.

Hello Bancroft -

We have a packed newsletter today!! Please be sure to look through all of the highlights sharing our new module topics for ELA, some photos from April, many music announcements, specialist updates and dates of upcoming events.

There were many field trips and enrichment activities throughout April without photos shared below so hopefully you are reading your grade level newsletters with even more info than what is below!

Next week is Staff Appreciation Week, and it’s the perfect time to recognize the incredible people who make Bancroft such a special place. Our staff go above and beyond every single day, bringing dedication, care, and passion to everything they do.

Our PTO has a special week planned to celebrate our staff, and we are so grateful for the support that makes these efforts possible.

Please join us in celebrating and thanking our amazing team for all they contribute. Bancroft truly has the best!

Have a great weekend,

Beth & Kim

Beth Leavitt, Principal

Kim Rabold, Assistant Principal

beth.leavitt@andoverma.us or kimberly.rabold@andoverma.us

May 6 - Walk, Ride and Roll to School Day!!

Early Release Day with Dismissal at 12:15

May 8 - PTO's amazing event - Spring Fling!!

May 11 - 15 - Book Fair. More info from PTO

May 12 - PTO meeting at 7:00 in the library

May 14 - Maker Night!! More info from PTO

May 25 - No School -m Memorial Day

May 28 - Spring Concert for Chorus/Band/Orff - concert for school and families

Families welcome for the evening performance at 6:30

In addition to these dates, please refer to your grade level newsletters for more about field trips and enrichment fun!

Andover Public Schools 2025 - 2026 Calendar

Andover Public School 2026-2027 Calendar

MCAS dates

Grade 3

Math - May 11 and May 12

Grade 4

Math - May 13 and May 15

Grade 5

Math - May 4 and May 5

Science - May 18 and May 19

The APS Visual and Performing Arts department completed a district-wide art project this school year, engaging students from PreK through grade 12.

In honor of the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, students across the district took part in Declaration of Interdependence: What Does It Mean to Be Connected to Others? During class, each student created a small 5” x 5” canvas exploring ideas of connection, community, and shared humanity, whether through familiar images or more abstract designs.

When brought together, the individual pieces now form a powerful visual representation of how our students see themselves connected to one another and to the Andover community. The Bancroft student artwork is displayed throughout our 3rd floor hallway so all can enjoy it on their way to and from art and music to see the creative minds of our students as they interpreted the task.

We are grateful to the Rotary Club of Andover for their generous support of this special project.

Week of April 27th

This week, all students played one of the most anticipated games of the year called ‘Battleship.’ It is inspired by the board game, where students worked in teams to locate and knock down opponents ships (bowling pins) by throwing balls over a wall without seeing the other side. At the same time, they defended their own ships, using communication, teamwork, and strategy to win the game.

WHAT’S HAPPENING IN MUSIC CLASS 4/27/26-5/1/26

K, 1, students continue to focus on steady beat through a partner game-song called “Woodpecker Tapping.” Students work with a partner and listen for sound cues of when to tap the beat, when to switch partners, and finally when to show locomotor movement of the woodpeckers flying in and out of the trees in the woods.

In grade 2, students begin their song/rhythm writing with the “Fishpole Song.” Students work together in cooperative groups as they create rhythms to go along with the fish they select. We look forward to playing our creations on percussion instruments next time.

3rd, 4th, and 5th grade students focus on playful learning through music games. We use developmental play to focus on memory, focus, and motor skills as well as foster a collaborative, team-based atmosphere. Students are engaged in the drum/movement game in which they explore and experience locomotor movements moving to and from the drum as they focus on tapping the drum on a specific beat of the rhythm pattern they hear. Students also play a fun steady beat singing game called “Son Macaron” in which they stand in a circle passing the clap to the steady beat as they sing. If they are out, they choose an instrument and play on the “special” words they listen for in the song.

Hello Andover Families,

We are pleased to invite your child to join our elementary instrumental music program in Grade 3. In Andover, students may begin string instruction in Grade 3, when they have the option to play a string instrument (violin, viola, cello, or bass). This will be a regularly scheduled part of their music curriculum, and string instruments must come to school for weekly lessons. Students who do not opt into this program will receive other additional music instruction.

Strings Instruction - Things to consider:

Learning a string instrument is a wonderful way to begin an instrumental music career in school. However, there must be a commitment to home practice and instrument care. Students enrolled in the string program are expected to participate for the whole school year, be prepared for scheduled public performances, and practice regularly. Students and families are encouraged to review policies around instrument rental and care. We are here to support you. The first few lessons will focus on some real basics: unpacking/packing, bow hold, instrument position, and instrument/bow care, but through commitment and regular practice, students will be performing several short, recognizable songs by the end of the year.

We ask that you consider this with your child and make the selection by June 7th, 2026 - if possible. Families who do not wish to participate in the strings program do not need to respond to the form below:

Grade 3 Strings Registration - UPDATE

Renting an Instrument:

There are several instrument rental options for the Fall for families interested in string instruction. Below is a partial list of vendors. Families are welcome to explore other rental options. This information will be shared again later in the summer:

Johnson String Instruments of Newton, MA - http://www.johnsonstring.com

Leonards Music of Bedford, MA - http://www.leonardsmusic.com

Spencer Brook Strings of Maynard, MA - http://www.spencerbrookstrings.com

Rowen Strings of Boxford, MA - https://www.rowenstrings.com

Renting a good-quality string instrument has many benefits. Rental companies provide security in terms of repair and size upgrades as your child grows. Instrument pricing, sizing, and rental information for these companies can be found on their websites. We strongly discourage parents from buying an instrument at this time. Grade 3 students will need a smaller instrument fitted to their specific size in order to learn successfully and will need a size upgrade every year or so (free through a rental service) after that.

PLEASE NOTE: Instruments purchased online may be of poor quality. A poor quality instrument will greatly hinder your child’s progress. While buying online may seem like an attractive option, it may cause many unnecessary challenges. Through a generous donation by the Andover Coalition for Education, for beginning Grade 3 string players, we have many high quality, school-owned stringed instruments (violins, violas, cellos, and basses) available for those who qualify for financial assistance. More information will be available later in the summer.

Sincerely,

Julie Diehl, Elementary Strings Instructor - julie.diehl@andoverma.us

Show Choir Workshop for Students Grades 5 through 8

The Andover High School show choirs are hosting a one-day workshop for any interested student in grades through 8. Students will have the opportunity to work with the AHS show choir students and staff to learn vocals and choreography and to find out more about Andover’s show choir program.

The workshop will be held on Tuesday, May 5th, from 3:45 - 8:00 pm at South School. Sign up at this link: https://forms.gle/2A1VeJYSK1sQFKho8.

Questions can be directed to Ms. Lambros (sabrina.lambros@andoverma.us) or Ms. Kennedy - elizabeth.kennedy@andoverma.us

Middle School Band, Orchestra, and Chorus welcome ALL students!

For interested Band and Orchestra Students, if you are starting, we'll teach you everything from the very beginning. No experience is needed. If you are already playing? Get ready to work in a full ensemble year-round. And if singing is your thing, please join our award-winning Choral program. Whatever your musical background, there's a place for you here.

Special Opportunities:

Field Trips to the University of New Hampshire, the Boston Symphony Orchestra, and Into the Game and Mel’s Funway

Regular Guest Artists from UNH, Boston Children’s Chorus, University of Hartford, Gordon College, etc.

Junior Districts

Concerts like Vocal Gala, All Strings Night, and All Bands Night

After School Ensembles: MS A Cappella - Vocalize!, MS Show Choir - Interlude!, Jazz Band, Chamber Orchestra

Students must be enrolled in Band, Orchestra, and Chorus to participate in an after-school ensemble. Exceptions may be made if there is a scheduling conflict.

Website: https://sites.google.com/andoverma.us/the-arts-in-andover/6-8-band-orchestra-and-chorus

Promo Video: https://youtu.be/n8z6NuqI02k

April 27

Kindergarteners are finishing up their colorful collages inspired by the book, “Rainbow Fish.”

First graders are creating four-cornered hats inspired by textile hats made in the Andes mountains of Peru.

Second graders are creating glue drawings inspired by Frank Stella. They used chalk pastels to color in their shapes.

Third graders are finishing their Cezanne inspired mixed media collages

Fourth graders are finishing up weaving and beginning a chromebook self portrait project.

Fifth graders are beginning a project about Piet Mondrain, a Dutch artist. They are practicing making grid-like artwork in google sheets using tools such as merging cells, adding and changing borders, and dropping in colors from their own curated color palette.

Week of April 27

Library ask: if you have any cardboard paper towel or toilet paper rolls, please consider donating to the library for a student project.

This week, Kindergarten read Melissa’s Octopus and other Unsuitable Pets by Charlotte Voake. After the read aloud, students discussed what unsuitable pet they would like to have and drew a picture of their unsuitable pet. Ask your student what they named their pet!

First grade and Second grade read Ada Twist Scientist by Andrea Beaty to begin their research unit. Students discussed what research means and what it can look like. Each first grade class voted on which bird we will be researching during library. Ask your first grader what bird their class chose! Second grade will be working in groups to research an insect of their choosing. Lady bugs, Bumblebees, and Fireflies were very popular choices!

Third graders began typing their sensory poems. Many students are eager to share their poems with their classmates!

Fourth and fifth grade students continue to work on their research projects. Fourth grade continued recording their podcast. Fifth grade continued to work on their capstone project and are hoping to finish up their products next library!

School librarian: Tiffany Hutchins

Librarian email: tiffany.legare@andoverma.us

As the Andover School Committee moves forward in the process of selecting a new Superintendent, we are excited to announce upcoming engagement opportunities and a dedicated webpage for students, staff, and the community.

Selecting a Superintendent is one the School Committee’s most important responsibilities, and the School Committee is committed to a comprehensive, thorough, and transparent search for the best possible leader of our schools. We encourage your participation in this process. Thank you.

We are all working to manage the age of technology and are looking for support between school and home. Many children have new smart devices and the elementary schools have some guidance.

A kind reminder to our families that cell phones must be turned off and in students’ backpacks at the start of the school day. Smartwatches may be worn as regular watches, however, students are not allowed to text, communicate with others, use applications, take pictures or videos, or access social media services and websites.

Should parents/guardians urgently need to reach their child during the school day, we ask that you call the main office. Students are also allowed to come to the main office if they need to contact someone at home. If a cell phone or watch becomes a significant distraction, school administrators will reach out to parents/guardians. The Andover Public Schools is not responsible for lost, stolen, damaged, or broken devices.

To promote healthy digital habits during the school day, the resources below may be helpful to use. We appreciate your partnership as we work to keep interruptions to the school day at a minimum.

Resource for Apple Watches:

How to set a School Time schedule

• Open the Watch app on your iPhone. Tap All Watches, then tap your child's watch.

• Tap Done, then tap Schooltime.

• Turn on Schooltime, then tap Edit Schedule.

• Choose the days and times when you want Schooltime to be active.

• Tap Add Time if you want to set up more than one schedule in a day.

Resource for Gizmo Watches:

How to set up School mode

• Open the. Gizmo Hub app.

• Tap the. School mode switch. turn on or off. If necessary, set up a School Mode schedule.

Bobcat to Bobcat is a committee in our school of staff members who work to support families who may need assistance with various needs throughout the year. This includes helping with scholarships for events, holidays, and more. Our work is confidential and financially supported by our PTO as well as our staff and families who donate when needed.

All donations are given anonymously and recipients’ information will be kept in strict confidence.

We have an amazing community here at Bancroft and know that when there is a need, everyone pitches in. We will reach out throughout the year!

If you are a family wanting to be on our list needing support, please email our social worker, Nancy Modlish at nancyjo.modlish@andoverma.us or me, Beth Leavitt at beth.leavitt@andoverma.us.

We wanted to share information about some assistance programs available to Andover families through the Andona Foundation (https://andona.org/).

Clown Town:

2026 Clown Town sponsorship form - due May 4

The annual Clown Town carnival will be held in downtown Andover on May 15th through May 17th this year. Each year, Andover schools awards families with the Andona sponsorship for Clown Town. This packet includes rides, tickets and vouchers for Andona activities at Clown Town. Please pick up the packet at the "Information Booth" by the gazebo on any day of the event. Please reach out to your school adjustment counselor if you would like an alternative form of pickup.

Campership Assistance:

2026 Andona Campership form

The campership assistance (up to $300) to help pay fees for a summer program of your choice. To learn more and apply for their program, please click the application below. Forms are due May 15th.

Please reach out to Gabrielle at camperships@andona.org with any additional questions about either opportunity.

All students are able to receive 1 free breakfast and 1 free lunch daily during the 2025 - 2026 school year. Breakfast will be served in the cafeteria from 8:45 - 9:00 and does not need to be ordered ahead of time.

Lunches will need be preordered. It is very important that our cafeteria has an accurate lunch count each day. Please review with your children each morning what you have ordered for them.

Please click below for the monthly menu and more information about Andover's Nutrition Program including how to sign up.

Every year the lost & found racks become quite full of clothes, water bottles, shoes, etc. and you can help by LABELING EVERYTHING!!

PLEASE write your last name on items and this will help us to return things to your child.

Thank you!!

APPEL - These are in-person classes held at High Plain Elementary start on October 7 from 9:30-11am. No sign up necessary.

ESOL - Classes meet virtually on Monday evenings from 6:00-7:00pm starting on October 6. Participants need to sign up to receive a Google Meeting link. Limit 25 participants.

MOST IMPORTANT - CARS DO NOT TRAVEL FROM THE BANCROFT ROAD SIDE OF THE SCHOOL. YOU ENTER THE CAR LANE FROM WEST KNOLL.

OUR BUSES MUST USE BANCROFT ROAD AND IT IS NOT WIDE ENOUGH FOR CARS AND BUSES. YOUR COOPERATION IS GREATLY APPRECIATED FOR THE SAFETY OF ALL!

When cars are waiting prior to 8:45 and prior to 3:30, they must be TURNED OFF.

This is a NO IDLING ZONE as the SIGNAGE INDICATES.

DROP OFF: ALL CARS MUST DRIVE UP WEST KNOLL TO DROP OFF STUDENTS. PLEASE, PLEASE, PLEASE do not get out of the car in the morning to help your child. We have staff on duty to assist and this will hold up the line quite a bit. We know many have to rush off and we want to help in any way we can. This is a way we can help one another!

There is a staff member there to direct traffic and it is a single lane so you may not pass even if your child has exited your car.

PARENT PICK-UP: ALL CARS MUST DRIVE UP WEST KNOLL TO PICK UP STUDENTS. NO CARS WILL BE PERMITTED TO ENTER FROM BANCROFT ROAD.

In order to help expedite the pick-up procedure, please write your last name ONLY in LARGE, BLACK, BOLD print on a piece of tag board/paper and have it prominently displayed when you arrive to pick up your child. This will expedite the process. If someone else is picking up your child, please have them follow the same protocol.

AGAIN . . . DO NOT EXIT YOUR CAR DURING THIS TIME OR PASS CARS! Every car stays in a single line and waits for the car in front of you to drive off.

Thank you very much!

• Bancroft School
• Bancroft PTO

Important Links (APS):

• Andover Public Schools
• Handbook
  
• Elementary School Libraries
• Bullying Incident Report Form
• Menu
• LINQ Ordering System

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Email: beth.leavitt@andoverma.us
Website: Bancroft School

Instagram: @bancroftaps
Location: 15 Bancroft Rd, Andover, MA, USA
Phone: (978) 247-9500

X: @BancroftAPS